August 19, 2025

Tsunami scare exposes cracks in Oregon's disaster preparedness After tsunami warning, calls grow to modernize Oregon’s disaster preparedness

16 minutes

The tsunami warning that hit the Oregon coast earlier this month triggered more than just alarms — it revealed deeper cracks in the state’s emergency response system. For two state representatives who are helping lead efforts to modernize how Oregon prepares for natural disasters, the incident underscored the gaps in Oregon’s disaster readiness, from outdated emergency notification systems to underfunded infrastructure and training.

Rep. Paul Evans (D-Monmouth) has a $300 million proposal to modernize Oregon’s disaster preparedness, aiming to improve communication systems, strengthen infrastructure, and expand local readiness efforts over the next decade. He and Rep. David Gomberg (D-Lincoln, West Benton, Lane) join us to discuss where Oregon has made progress, where significant vulnerabilities remain, and how new investments could help the state better prepare for the next major crisis — whether it’s a tsunami, wildfire, or another emergency all together.

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