Officials Announce Blue Ridge Parkway Closures Due to Ian

Officials from the National Park Service are keeping a close eye on Tropical Storm Ian's predicted route and preparing for a variety of potential effects along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Visitors to the Blue Ridge Parkway this weekend should be aware of closures and exercise caution due to anticipated periods of heavy rain, flooding, and powerful wind. On Friday, September 30, 2022, late in the afternoon, the following places will experience closures based on the storm's anticipated path:

Milepost 318 - 375.2 from Linville Spur Road to Bull Gap 
Milepost 393 - 406 from the French Broad overlook to Rte 151 entrance (north side) 
Milepost 412.9 - 443 from Hwy 276 (south side) to Balsam Gap 
Milepost 446 - 469 from Balsam Gap to southern terminus. 

Due to the harsh weather, all public use is prohibited. The park will reopen after evaluations have been completed, any storm damage has been repaired, and it has been determined that it is safe for visitors to enter. Closures are anticipated to last until at least midday on Sunday, October 2, 2022. The effects on the following facilities are hence anticipated to last until at least Sunday midday, if not longer depending on the complexity of the required cleanup procedures.

Pisgah Inn will remain accessible via both Hwy 151 and Hwy 27, providing two egress routes in opposite directions for visitors.  
Craggy Gardens Visitor Center at milepost 364 and Waterrock Knob Visitor Center at milepost 451.2 will be closed.   

Visitors to the park are urged to use extreme caution and be mindful of the possibility of falling rocks and toppled trees when conditions allow and the road is still open. As always, the Parkway's numerous twists, steep hills, and limited road shoulders necessitate additional caution while driving. During this storm event, park visitors are advised to exercise caution, follow established speed limits, and be ready to stop or turn around at closed gates or road debris.

The Parkway website, as well as its Twitter and Facebook accounts, will provide updates and information regarding the condition of park amenities, including the route itself. Visitors to the park and nearby residents are urged to frequently check these websites for updates before leaving for the Parkway.

WNCTIMES by Marjorie Farrington