- Snowstorm Causes Major Disruptions in Klamath Falls
- A powerful winter storm, dubbed "Snowmageddon," has wreaked havoc across Klamath Falls, shutting down schools and businesses throughout the week. Several reports of roof collapses have emerged, and numerous Pacific Power customers endured extended power outages.
- In response to the crisis, warming shelters were opened across the county, including an emergency shelter at the Beatty Community Center for residents from Bly, Scyan Estates, and Tablelands. While the worst of the storm has passed, weather forecasters caution that more snowfall could arrive as early as Wednesday night.
- Deadly Road Conditions Lead to Fatal Accidents
- The hazardous conditions contributed to two fatal accidents in the area. The first tragedy occurred Sunday night on Highway 97 near Chiloquin when a Ford Expedition lost control on icy roads, sliding into oncoming traffic and colliding with a Ford F-350 towing a horse trailer. Two passengers in the Expedition, 41-year-old twins Lee Foster and Winnie Mae Hescock of Klamath Falls, died at the scene. Three others sustained serious injuries and were hospitalized. The occupants of the truck were unharmed. Authorities confirm that the deceased women leave behind five children. An investigation into the crash is ongoing.
- A second fatal accident happened Monday morning on Washburn Way when a vehicle struck a pedestrian. Emergency responders attempted CPR, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials say he was walking in the northbound lane wearing dark clothing, and initial reports suggest it was a tragic accident. No charges have been filed against the driver, but the incident remains under investigation.
- Klamath County Faces Possible Federal Funding Freeze
- In other news, Klamath County may be at risk of losing federal funding following an order by Attorney General Pam Bondi to freeze funds for sanctuary jurisdictions. The directive aligns with President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement policies. Oregon has been a sanctuary state since 1987, meaning local law enforcement agencies are prohibited from assisting federal immigration authorities.
- Current estimates indicate that 2.8% of Oregon’s population is undocumented, though the exact figure for Klamath County is unknown. The Klamath County Sheriff’s Office has yet to comment on how this policy shift might affect local law enforcement. Meanwhile, Multnomah County has reported that $5.7 million in Department of Justice grants support its law enforcement and community programs, prompting local officials to evaluate how much Klamath County relies on these federal funds.
- More updates will follow as these stories develop.
