Irene Closures
2011-08-26 16:31:40.000 – Mike Carmon, Weather Observer/Meteorologist
Irene’s Projected Path
In anticipation of Hurricane Irene and its potential effects on the region, several organizations have taken the following precautions:
New Hampshire Fish and Game:‘Due to the severity of this storm, N.H. Fish and Game Department Executive DirectorGlenn Normandeau is urging all outdoor enthusiasts to be out of the woods,off the water and headed for home by Saturday evening.
‘It is unlikely that search and rescue operations will be feasible duringthe height of the storm. For that reason, we are urging the public – whetheryou’re hiking, camping, fishing or boating anywhere in the state – tocomplete your outdoor recreation and get home by Saturday night. For yoursafety and the safety of rescue personnel, get out of the woods and off thewater by Saturday evening,’ Normandeau said.
Campgrounds and day use areas in all New Hampshire State Parks, Forests andTrails, will be closed from 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 27, through Monday,August 29. Parks plan to reopen on Tuesday morning. The reopening of theparks will be subject to any damage and debris removal needed in theaftermath of the storm.’
National Forest Service:All trails and campgrounds in the White Mountain National Forest will be closed Saturday night through Monday.
Appalachian Mountain Club:Huts will be closed Saturday, Sunday & Monday nights. Trailheads will be posted, and parking lots will be gated.
Mt. Washington State Park:The Sherman Adams Summit Building will close at 6 p.m. on Saturday night, and will not reopen until conditions improve on Monday. Even if you somehow make it to the summit (as of this time, the Auto Road and Cog Railway are not planning to close), there will be no indoor shelter up top.
According to the NH Department of Resources & Economic Development (DRED): ‘The storm event will make backcountry travel and camping extremely hazardous due to swollen streams, dangerous crossings, and potential flooding. Road systems will be vulnerable to washouts and compromised road shoulders.
High winds are predicted that will cause trees and limbs to blow down in campgrounds, along trail systems, and across roads.
Ability to conduct Search and Rescue operations WILL NOT BE POSSIBLE Sunday during the height of the storm.‘
Mike Carmon, Weather Observer/Meteorologist
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