Operations Interrupted by Extreme Heat
PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland’s ongoing efforts to manage homelessness faced both climate challenges and operational hurdles last week after extreme heat forced a temporary pause in camp cleanups.
On August 22, Multnomah County declared a state of emergency due to dangerously high temperatures. Under city policy, the declaration meant the Street Services Coordination Center (SSCC) suspended removals of homeless camps. The city clarified that “people will not be required to move during campsite cleanups” during weather emergencies.
Once the emergency order was lifted, operations resumed on Monday, with city departments again focusing on camps deemed to pose the greatest health and safety risks to the community.
Shelter Referrals During the Pause
Even with the interruption, the SSCC continued outreach to individuals living in camps. According to the city’s report, 34 people expressed interest in shelter referrals during the heatwave pause, and 20 ultimately accepted placements…