From Headlines to Data: Oregon Ranks 10th in UFO Contact Likelihood
- A discussion of growing interest in UFOs is framed by contemporary headlines and unconventional bets. Supporters note Trump’s call to release government files on aliens and Obama’s remarks about life in the stars, while a betting site (DuelBits) weighs in with odds on states likely to be contacted by aliens. Oregon is ranked 10th, with the model citing four factors: UFO/UAP reporting density, proximity to military or aerospace facilities, population distribution, and depth of existing UFO culture. New Mexico and Nevada lead due to Roswell and Area 51. - Oregon's own UFO data show the state has had over 2,200 sightings since the 1950s (per MUFON). Analysts warn that only a fraction (about 10–20%) of reports are likely genuine UFO phenomena, acknowledging uncertainties in verification. The most active hotspots include Lincoln City (the top spot), followed by coastal towns Brookings, Florence, and Newport; Prineville, Baker City, and La Grande; and areas around Portland such as Clackamas and Scappoose. - The National UFO Reporting Center’s map is cited to illustrate broader global sightings. Anecdotal examples from Oregon and beyond are mentioned, including a 2014 Alfalfa report describing a scary blinking light, and a 2019 “ Seventh Mountain” sequence, alongside a 2014 report from Logan, Australia. The piece treats these accounts as entertaining illustrations of the UFO discussion, while emphasizing the need for cautious interpretation given the verification challenges. - The piece closes with a brief author bio (David Jasper, The Bulletin) and notes about related local coverage, underscoring the blend of sensational headlines with data-driven context in the ongoing conversation about UFOs.
Source: bendbulletin.com
