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Date: September 5, 2008
Contact: Larry Perez, 305-338-3499
Contact: Linda Friar, 305-242-7714

Temporary Park Closures in Effect for Hurricane Ike

Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks are actively preparing for potential impacts from Hurricane Ike. In anticipation of the impending storm, both parks will implement temporary closures. The closures are necessary in the interest of public safety, and to allow park staff to concentrate fully on securing and protecting resources and facilities as this major storm moves toward the region.

Dry Tortugas is closed to visitors effective 4:30 p.m. Saturday, September 6. Licensed commercial transport to the Dry Tortugas National Park, including ferry boat and seaplane services, will suspended their operations until the park reopens.

Most visitor areas of Everglades National Park (including the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, East Everglades, Flamingo and the Main Park Road) will close to visitors at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 6. The Shark Valley Visitor Area will close to visitors at 6:00 p.m. All entrance stations will be closed to access until the park reopens. No visitor-related services will be available at the Flamingo, Shark Valley, or Gulf Coast (Everglades City) areas during the closure.

Both parks are expected to reopen once the storm has passed and conditions prove favorable. More information on park status and operations is available through the main switchboard at 305-242-7700.

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