ODOE, Local authorities practice “nuclear emergency” scenario for Morrow, Umatilla counties
By Griffin Beach on Friday, April 3rd, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
SALEM – What would happen to residents in Morrow and Umatilla Counties if a radiological emergency happened in the Hanford area? The Oregon Department of Energy activated their Operations Center in Salem last week to prepare for just such an event.
Their annual nuclear emergency exercise this year focused on a “hostile act” scenario at the Columbia Generating Station, a nuclear power plant approximately ten miles north of Richland, Washington. The drill outlined a scenario in which explosions at the plant compromised safety, prompting ODOE experts to analyze risks and protective measures for residents in Morrow and Umatilla counties.
During the exercise, officials reviewed simulated radiation data and practiced public communication, which included a mock press conference. Despite the alarming nature of the scenario, ODOE officials noted that in a real-world event, radiation levels reaching Oregon would likely remain below harmful levels for direct human exposure.
Instead, the primary concern for Oregon would be the impact on the region’s agricultural industry.
“The primary goal would be to protect consumption of contaminated food, water, and dairy products,” ODOE said in a statement. To address this, the exercise included the testing of simulated soil and milk samples.
The following agencies were involved in the drill:
- Morrow and Umatilla counties
- Oregon State University
- Oregon Health Authority
- Oregon Department of Agriculture
- Oregon Department of Emergency Management
- Oregon Emergency Response System
- Oregon National Guard Civil Support Team
- The State of Washington
In addition, a team member was present in Richland at Energy Northwest’s response center.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) monitored the proceedings. FEMA evaluators will provide a formal report containing feedback and suggestions for improvement.
This drill follows a “dress rehearsal” conducted in February. A third exercise is scheduled for May, which will specifically focus on a simulated emergency at the Hanford site itself.
Officials discuss potential actions during the exercise, photo courtesy of ODOE
