Park Remains Closed for Tropical Storm Ernesto

Date: August 29, 2006
Contact: Larry Perez, 305-242-7758

In anticipation of Tropical Strom Ernesto, Dry Tortugas and Everglades National Parks remain closed to all visitors.  The closures are necessary in the interest of public safety and to allow park staff to concentrate fully on securing and protecting park resources and facilities as this major storm moves toward the region.

Everglades National Park will remain closed through Thursday, August 31^st.  Following passage of the storm, park staff will assess damage and initiate recovery efforts.  Once safety and access concerns have been addressed, park management will reopen the park to the visiting public.

Dry Tortugas is expected to experience minimal impacts from Tropical Storm Ernesto.  Once the storm has passed, park management will determine an appropriate time to reopen the park to visitors.

Status reports on these temporary closures may be obtained by calling 305-242-7700.