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For Immediate Release Contact: Smitty
Parratt (907) 822-5234
October 13, 2006 WRST Public Information Officer
Recent storms that brought heavy rainfall caused flooding in National
Creek, located in Kennecott Mill Town, within Wrangell-St. Elias
National Park and Preserve. Flooding damaged the supports to the
bridge in the Mill Town near the mill. Park officials have closed
access over the trestle bridge in the interest of public safety.
"The flood waters have excavated the northern supports for
the bridge, compromising the stability of the structure," stated
Park Planner Vicky Snitzler. "Unfortunately, repair work will
most likely not take place until next spring. The low water crossing
next to the trestle bridge was destroyed by the flood waters as
well. We are working to obtain emergency funding to accomplish repairs
to the bridge and the crossing in a timely manner."
In addition to the damage to the bridge, the assay building, hospital
and bunk houses have also sustained damage. The assay building has
lost its north and rear walls, and National Creek has changed its
channel to run against one of the walls of the building. The hospital
and bunk houses have increased gravel and debris inside the buildings,
but are still standing.
The Lakina River near mile 44 on the McCarthy Road also flooded.
One of the park in-holders' homes near that river has been washed
into the middle of the river, but still remains standing. The family
was not injured during the flood. National Park Service staff is
working with the family and other agencies to attempt salvaging
personal belongings that remain inside the home.
There has been no further rainfall in the past 48 hours and park
staff hopes the flooding will subside, if the weather remains clear.
The Alaska Department of Transportation (DOT) is currently working
to repair the Richardson Highway. That effort may take 7-10 days.
Once the Richardson Highway is repaired, they plan to move their
efforts toward repairing damage to the McCarthy Road, which DOT
has closed to traffic.
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Author:Jane
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Last modified on: April 18, 2003
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