By Austin De Dios
The Oregonian/OregonLive/TNS
Two people died in separate incidents across the metro area after trees fell on a home in Lake Oswego and on an RV in Southeast Portland.
One person died in Lake Oswego on Saturday after strong winds blew down a tree into their home.
The person, who was not identified, was asleep on the second story when the tree collapsed into a home in the West Lake area, according to Deputy Fire Marshal Gert Zoutendijk.
Officials are still trying to get more details about the incident.
Strong winds from Saturday’s winter storm prompted city officials to declare a state of emergency. Lake Oswego Fire Department said emergency crews are busy with downed trees, and shared images and video on social media of a different house that was also crushed by a tree.
One person died and another was injured after a tree fell on a parked RV and ignited a fire. Fire officials identified the victim who died as a woman in her early 30s. They said she was trapped inside when the tree fell.
Portland Fire & Rescue crews responded to the RV engulfed in flames on the 5300 block of Southeast 105th Avenue around 2:30 p.m. Saturday, according to Lt. Terry Foster, fire inspector at Portland Fire & Rescue.
Firefighters were hampered by impassable roads and multiple downed power lines that were live near the RV, as well as discovering the closest hydrant to the fire was inoperable. They believe it was likely frozen.
Foster said a open flame stove was being used to heat the RV when the tree fell, causing the RV to go up in flames. The woman died, another was injured and two escaped unharmed.
Foster advised residents to use electric space heaters with tip-over protection and that those using a combustion heater make sure they use it in a well ventilated area.
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler also declared a local emergency due to extreme winter weather. The declaration helps organize and expedite services across the city.
Fire officials warned residents to stay indoors and off the roads until the weather clears.
– Austin De Dios; [email protected]; @austindedios; 503-319-9744
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