Jefferson Co. undersheriff provides post-storm status update, information

Most power should be back tonight; damage info sought; residents asked to halt outdoor watering for 24-48 hours due to power issues; debris disposal site being arranged

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Jefferson County Undersheriff Marc Heckathorn issued an update late Sunday afternoon of information related to the severe storm that caused significant damage over much of the county on Saturday,

Here is his statement, in full:

At the conclusion of an emergency session of the Jefferson County Commissioners meeting the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office can report the following:

1. Our Emergency Manager Sergeant Dave Pond is collecting damage estimates from both private and public entities for those impacted by the severe weather event from Saturday May 30. This information will be sent to the state to determine potential Federal and State Financial Assistance. To submit information, you can email Sgt. Pond at dpond@jcso.law or contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 541-475-6520. Be prepared to include your name, address, description of damage, and repair estimates. Private homeowners should contact their homeowner’s insurance company and file a claim as well.  
2. Power to the areas of Culver and Metolius should be restored for most customers between 8 p.m. and midnight tonight.
3. Deschutes Valley Water District and the cities of Madras, Culver, and Metolius are asking all customers to stop all outdoor watering for the next 24-48 hours. Power to the hydro facility at Opal Springs is down and isn’t estimated to be restored until sometime Monday June 1, 2020. Power is necessary to pump the water from the canyon to the various water tanks throughout the district. The district is currently serving the communities with water held in the holding tanks.
4. Jefferson County and the cities of Culver and Metolius are attempting to coordinate a collection site for people to take debris (tress and limbs) to be disposed. Metolius has a site near their Public Works office but won’t have space for the entire community. Culver has no dedicated disposal site. Taking debris to the transfer station is an option but there is a fee associated currently at that location. More information will be distributed once a decision has been made to assist the public.
5. All three cities and Jefferson County public works crews are sharing equipment and manpower. Madras will be allowing both Culver and Metolius to use their street sweeper and community cleanup is underway.

 It’s been amazing to see family, friends, neighbors, and community members stepping up during this difficult time. Keep it up Jefferson County.

Respectfully submitted,

Marc Heckathorn, Undersheriff Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office