Out of 12 counties with PHMSA gas distribution data, these are the counties with the highest incident risk.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Counties ranked | 12 |
| Total incidents (top 100) | 13 |
| Total fatalities (top 100) | 3 |
Top 12 Counties
| Rank | County | State | Incidents | Fatalities | Latest Year | Risk Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jackson | Oregon | 4 | 3 | 2020 | 19/100 |
| 2 | Washington | Oregon | 2 | 0 | 2011 | 2/100 |
| 3 | Marion | Oregon | 2 | 0 | 2009 | 1/100 |
| 4 | Multnomah | Oregon | 1 | 0 | 2016 | 1/100 |
| 5 | Polk | Oregon | 1 | 0 | 2017 | 1/100 |
| 6 | Lane | Oregon | 1 | 0 | 2012 | 1/100 |
| 7 | Morrow | Oregon | 1 | 0 | 2012 | 1/100 |
| 8 | Clackamas | Oregon | 1 | 0 | 2007 | 0/100 |
| 9 | Columbia | Oregon | 0 | 0 | — | 19/100 |
| 10 | Yamhill | Oregon | 0 | 0 | — | 1/100 |
| 11 | Linn | Oregon | 0 | 0 | — | 1/100 |
| 12 | Lincoln | Oregon | 0 | 0 | — | 1/100 |
Methodology
County rankings for Oregon based on total PHMSA gas distribution incidents reported since 2004.
Data source: U.S. DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), Gas Distribution System Incident Reports 2004-2026. Last updated: 2026-06-04.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a gas distribution incident?
Gas distribution incidents involve failures in the local natural gas pipeline network — leaks, ruptures, explosions, and equipment failures that can cause property damage, injuries, and fatalities. PHMSA requires all operators to report significant incidents.
How can I protect my home?
Install CO detectors on every level (CPSC recommendation). Have gas appliances inspected annually. Know the signs of a gas leak: rotten egg smell, hissing near gas lines, dead vegetation near pipelines. If you suspect a leak, leave immediately and call 911.