Major Flooding Expected: C & O Canal National Historical Park Prepares

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park News Release
Release Date: September 6, 2011
Contact:  Peggie Gaul, 301-739-6072
                
Major Flooding Expected: C & O Canal National Historical Park Prepares

HAGERSTOWN, MD – Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park declared a flood emergency as of 9:30 A.M., Tuesday, September 6, 2011.  Park staff is preparing for what could be one of the top ten major floods in our area, according to the National Weather Service forecasts.

Areas of the park are being closed, including hiker/biker campgrounds, drive up campgrounds, boat ramps, visitor centers, and day use areas.  Portable toilets throughout the park are being emptied and closed. The Great Falls entrance road, Billy Goat A Trail, and the Great Falls Overlook will be closed beginning Wednesday, September 7.  The Canal Quarters program which provides overnight accommodations in some of the historic lockhouses has been temporarily suspended.  A section of the towpath has been closed between Offutt Street and Brehm Road in Allegany County because of a weakened culvert.  Additional closures are likely through the week.

Visitors are asked to refrain from entering the park and respect all safety barriers. There is a risk of being swept away by swift water or becoming stranded along the towpath as the waters rise. The rising water will be carrying extremely hazardous debris, trees, and man-made objects.  In addition to the rising water, water logged soils can lead to other hazards, including uprooting of trees and falling branches. Visitors are advised to observe the rising water from a safe distance

An internal incident command team was established to manage information, coordinate resources, and ensure the orderly implementation and completion of the Park’s Flood Emergency Response Plan.  The team’s top priorities are protection of life and the physical well-being of employees and visitors, and protection of park resources and government property.