County staff told commissioners on Dec. 17 that recent heavy rain and high winds led to multiple road failures and a series of closures across Cowlitz County.

Mike Moss, public services director, said crews have been working long hours to clear culverts and remove debris after “a lot of water” and wind last week, and he warned the county expects more slides as saturated hillsides receive additional rain. “We have 1 new slide on the Klamath River Road. We’re expecting more slides,” Moss said.

Public works staff identified specific closures and impacts: Barnes Drive suffered a pavement collapse and will remain closed while engineers assess repairs; Klamath River Road has a new slide but a bypass remains open; Rose Valley Road is closed at the 300 block near Wetherby; Cool Road lost a lane but remains partially open. Staff said downed trees also brought down power lines in several locations and that the utility district (PUD) has been coordinating flags and restorations.

Staff reported Cowlitz County met the state aid damage threshold of $538,000, which can trigger additional state assistance for repairs. Public works said it will likely bring an emergency declaration closure to the board next week to finalize the county’s emergency response and document costs for reimbursement.

Commissioners asked for precise closure mileposts and staff said they would provide more exact locational information by email and social media updates. Staff emphasized public safety and urged drivers to avoid affected areas while crews and utility partners complete stabilization and repair work.