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Heavy Precipitation Could Bring Flooding To Yosemite National Park, Lead To Park Closure

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By NPT Staff - January 4th, 2017

A mix of rain and snow falling on Yosemite National Park on Wednesday was a prelude to possibly more significant and heavier precipitation that could lead to closure of the park/NPS

Heavy rainfall and snow in the forecast for Yosemite National Park could lead to substantial flooding of the valley floor in the coming days, leading park officials Wednesday to prepare for the possibility of closing the park.

In a release park officials said they were making preparations for visitor and employee safety in response to weather reports predicting significant precipitation, and possible flooding, over the next several days and through the weekend. The predictions for significant rainfall in Yosemite Valley, well above flood stage on the Merced River, could prompt the park to be closed in the next few days. People planning trips to the park, beginning, Thursday, January 5, should make alternate plans if the park does close, officials said.

"At this point in time, park staff is carefully monitoring water levels in the Merced River. It is currently raining and snowing at higher elevations. As the storm progresses and we have more information, the National Park Service will determine which areas of Yosemite, if any, need to close for the safety of park visitors and employees," park spokeswoman Jamie Richards said in an email.

The park experienced a significant flood event in January 1997 that caused extensive damage to park roads, campgrounds, lodging, and utilities. The park was closed until March 1997 due to extensive damage to the park’s infrastructure. During the closure, there was no running water and electricity was intermittent. Since the 1997 flood, the park has made significant improvements to park roads and facilities.

Yosemite National Park officials continue to monitor the weather forecast and will make decisions in the next day or two based on the forecast, and the ability of the park to safely accommodate visitors and employees.

For updated 24-hour road and weather conditions for Yosemite National Park, please call 209-372-0200 and press 1. Updated information is also available on the park’s website at www.nps.gov/yose

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