Park Damaged By High Winds

Two tornadoes, along with high velocity straight-line winds exceeding those experienced during Hurricane Katrina, blew through Warren County just before noon on Friday, April 4th. The tornadoes passed by the park on either side, but straight-line winds over 80 mph struck it with full force. Staff immediately closed the park tour road and escorted visitors through the only open portion leading out of the park.  This necessitated travel in the opposite direction along the one-way road. Two crews were then assembled to remove approximately 20 trees that had fallen across the road, which was reopened at 11 a.m. on Saturday. Damage assessments continue. So far, staff have discovered that two roofs suffered minor damage and that railings on the park’s longest bridge were bent. Fortunately, Federal Highways staff are in the park this week and are assisting with plans for repairing the railings.