Portland, OR – Strong storms that swept through the Portland metro area early Thursday morning caused significant damage, including a landslide in the Rocky Butte neighborhood of Northeast Portland. The landslide, which occurred on Northeast Cadet Avenue, sent debris tumbling into a homeowner’s backyard, sparking concern among local residents.
Groshong Erickson, a 20-year resident of the neighborhood, was one of the first to witness the destruction. Although he had always been cautious of the towering trees around his home on Northeast 92nd Avenue, he never anticipated the threat of a landslide. “I’d never been concerned about a landslide until it happened honestly,” he said. “It’s directly above my bedroom.”
Erickson woke up to find his neighbor’s driveway partially collapsed into his backyard, a direct result of the retaining wall failing to contain the stormwater. Portland Fire & Rescue confirmed that the failure of the wall triggered the landslide, but fortunately, no one was injured. Emergency teams worked quickly to secure the area, placing a tarp over the slide to mitigate further erosion.
The homeowner, who opted not to speak on camera, took responsibility for the crumbling driveway. However, Erickson, while acknowledging the homeowner’s accountability, expressed concern over the broader impact on the neighborhood. He stressed that the community has long needed help from the city to address the ongoing risks of erosion and landslides, particularly in areas like Rocky Butte that are vulnerable to heavy rainfall and shifting soil conditions.
As the stormwater damage continues to be assessed, Erickson has reached out to his insurance company to understand how to prepare for potential future erosion. He remains hopeful that the city will take a more active role in preventing similar disasters, which could affect other homes in the area.
Local authorities are monitoring the situation and are expected to provide further updates as they assess the long-term impact of the storm on the neighborhood’s infrastructure.
