Red Cross workers respond to Vernonia

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Red Cross is on its way to Vernonia, Ore. in the wake of a powerful winter storm.

This week’s storm left 2 feet of snow, knocked out power throughout the town and heightened the possibility of flooding in the Coast Range town. Oregon Red Cross Spokesman James Roddey says they are responding to a request for help by moving people, resources and supplies into town.

The Red Cross will turn a Vernonia church into a warming shelter, Roddey said. They will provide meals and comfort kits to those who need them.

Red Cross workers are also preparing for flooding that could occur as the snow melts. They plan to have a sheltering team and equipment in place by Wednesday night.

In 2007, massive floods devastated Vernonia, forcing 300 homeowners to evacuate their homes and causing $100 million in damage.

Vernonia High School was also damaged beyond repair.