With severe weather approaching, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is advising residents and visitors at lakes, rivers and recreation areas to stay safe and remain aware of changing conditions.
USACE recommends park visitors develop a safety plan and be prepared to evacuate or seek shelter if conditions worsen. Many park restrooms serve as hardened structures and may provide the safest refuge. Upon arrival, visitors should identify these shelters and use them immediately if storm warnings or sirens sound.
Campers and guests should remain alert to potential flash flooding, reduced visibility from heavy rain, and falling limbs or trees caused by strong winds. Never attempt to cross fast-moving water in overflowing creeks or tributaries.
Residents and business owners with docks on lakes or rivers should closely monitor rising water levels and secure or pull in their floating docks as necessary. Fishermen downstream of locks and dams should be especially vigilant of changing water levels and listen carefully for horn signals indicating imminent water releases.
USACE personnel may not always be able to notify campers about rapidly changing weather conditions. Visitors should monitor local weather reports and make appropriate safety decisions based on the conditions.
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