BY BARB MAYNES

ONP

In anticipation of this week’s predicted storms, Olympic National Park staff is taking the precautionary step of closing a number of roads and campgrounds throughout the park.

With a series of powerful storms forecast to begin Thursday, high winds and very heavy rain are anticipated, raising the risk of falling trees and limbs, flooding and road damage. To prevent the possibility of visitors being trapped or injured by storm damage or falling debris, the park will close the following areas.

The Hurricane Ridge and Hoh roads will close at noon. The Mora Road is already closed to all entry due to construction.

The following campgrounds will close also at noon: Mora, Kalaloch, Hoh, Ozette, Queets, Heart O’the Hills, Quinault North Fork and Quinault Graves Creek.

“The coming storms are forecast to bring high winds, damaging surf and heavy rain, with the potential for extensive erosion, road damage and tree failure,” said Olympic National Park Deputy Superintendent Lee Taylor. “We strongly urge people to stay indoors and avoid traveling this weekend.”

Once the storms pass, park crews will assess damage, make any needed repairs and re-open roads and campgrounds when it is safe to do so. Given the forecast of extreme weather through Saturday night, the closures will likely last through the weekend.

Updates will be posted on the park’s website and social media platforms as they are available.