UPDATE
There will now be additional storm-related closures along the Blue Ridge Parkway on Monday.
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The parkway will be blocked from Milepost 165, at Route 8, south through North Carolina to milepost 469, at Cherokee.
These closures go into effect at 2 p.m. and will remain through Tuesday. During that time, those sections will be closed to all traffic, including cyclists and hikers.
The following visitor facilities will also close at 2 p.m.:
- Rocky Knob Campground
- Mabry Mill
- Groundhog Mountain picnic area
- Rock Castle Gorge and trail
- Blue Ridge Music Center
ORIGINAL STORY
Due to forecasted weather conditions, the Blue Ridge Parkway announced Sunday a road advisory from milepost 217 to milepost 469, all areas south of the North Carolina- Virginia state line.The Parkway service said the decision was based on the safety of visitors. The advisory will run from Monday morning through Wednesday morning.
"Information related to the path of Hurricane Irma, from the National Weather Service, suggests preparedness for strong winds at higher elevations, and isolated flash flooding over the foothills and mountains of the Southern Blue Ridge," National Parkway Officials said in a release.
Park visitors are encouraged to use extreme caution and be aware of the potential for falling rocks and downed trees. Driving on the Parkway requires driving with extra care due to its narrow road shoulders, steep grades, and numerous curves. Park visitors must use caution, adhere to posted speed limits and be prepared to stop or turn around at closed gates or road debris during this storm event. In addition, the Parkway’s five North Carolina campgrounds, from Doughton Park at milepost 239 to Mt. Pisgah at milepost 408.8, will close by noon on Monday for a minimum 24-hour period.
Park officials are closely monitoring weather forecasts and current conditions. Road and facility closures will be implemented if necessary. Visitors are encouraged to check the Parkway’s website and online Real Time Road Map for current conditions and closures affecting park roads and facilities.