Deschutes County Sheriff’s Swift Water Rescue Team checking flooded Burns homes, evacuating trapped residents

BURNS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Swift Water Rescue Team has been busy since arriving in flood-stricken Burns, checking on affected homes and rescuing thosel trapped by the rising floodwaters.

On Monday, "our dedicated team assisted in checking 60 homes impacted by rising flood waters and safely evacuated four residents unable to navigate these dangerous conditions on their own," the sheriff's office said in a Facebook posting

They said the flooding in Harney County "remains severe, exacerbated by sewage system backups that are adding complexity and urgency to relief efforts."

"We're grateful for the tremendous support from the American Red Cross - Cascades, whose teams are tirelessly providing hot meals, safe shelter, critical relief supplies, emotional support, and essential health services to those affected," the posting said, also thanking the Harney County Sheriff's Office and area first responders "for their outstanding leadership and coordination during this crisis."

Sheriff Kent Vander Kamp said, "Our Search and Rescue teams stand ready and committed to assisting our neighbors in Harney County. Our collective priority remains protecting and assisting our neighbors impacted by these floods."

The city of Burns informed residents in a Facebook post Tuesday that there could be water pressure issues due to a damaged fire hydrant in the flooded area, but added, “We want everyone to know that the water is still safe and there are no worries of contamination at this time."

Along with other resources posted to the Harney County Sheriff's Office Facebook page, a flood info line has been set up and staffed to call with questions at 541-589-0112. There are two listed locations to pick up sandbags, several shelter options and showers available with towels provided at Hines Middle School.