PacifiCorp Found Liable in Oregon Wildfire Class Action
Table of Contents
Case Background
The case involved residents and property owners from multiple Oregon counties who brought a class action lawsuit against PacifiCorp, operating under the name Pacific Power. Plaintiff’s alleged that the utility company’s failure to de-energize its power lines during an extreme weather event on Labour Day 2020 led to some of the most devastating wildfires in Oregon history. Despite clear warnings from the National Weather Service about dangerously high winds and critical fire conditions, PacifiCorp left its electrical lines live, which allegedly caused multiple ignition points and widespread destruction. Plaintiffs claimed that the resulting fires scorched homes, schools, businesses, and forests across vast areas, displacing thousands of residents.
Cause of the dispute
The sequence began on September 5, 2020, when the National Weather Service warned of an impending windstorm. By Labour Day, Oregon experienced high temperatures, dry fuels, and wind gusts exceeding 75 mph. Other utility providers de-energized their lines. PacifiCorp did not. The Plaintiffs argued that PacifiCorp knew the risks and ignored internal policies, regulatory guidance, and industry practices about Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). Plaintiffs alleged the fires like the Santiam and Echo Mountain Complex fires originated from PacifiCorp’s downed, energized power lines. Investigations and witness statements confirmed power lines sparked flames across several counties. Plaintiffs asserted the company prioritized profit and convenience over community safety.
Injuries suffered
Many Plaintiffs lost their homes and personal possessions overnight. Some fled with only the clothes they wore. Others endured repeated evacuations and now live in hotels, vehicles, or temporary shelters. Plaintiffs described escaping by foot through wind-blown debris and roadblocks. Communities suffered displacement, trauma, and severe disruption. With roads blocked and no emergency notices, residents received no formal warnings. Many suffered emotional and psychological harm, in addition to the physical loss of shelter and stabili
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