Park Closes for Tropical Storm Ernesto

Date: August 27, 2006
Contact: Larry Perez, 305-242-7758

With the approach of Hurricane Ernesto, Dry Tortugas and Everglades National Parks will be closing to visitors to complete needed preparations.  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.

Dry Tortugas is closed to visitors effective today, Sunday, August 27.  Licensed commercial transport to the Dry Tortugas National Park, including ferry boat and seaplane services, have suspended their operations until the park re-opens. Status reports on the park’s temporary closure may be obtained by calling 305-242-7700.

Everglades National Park will close to visitors beginning Monday, August 28.  The park will close to boaters beginning promptly at 12:00 midnight.  Beginning at 6:00 a.m., the Main Park Entrance and Shark Valley Entrance stations will be closed to all access until the park reopens.  No tourist related services will be available at the Flamingo, Shark Valley, or Gulf Coast (Everglades City) areas during the closure. Status reports on the park’s temporary closure may be obtained by calling 305-242-7700.