FRANKLIN, NC — Due to hazardous conditions in the Nantahala Gorge from multiple landslides the U.S. Forest Service is issuing an Emergency Closure Order prohibiting access to the Nantahala River. The closure is in effect for National Forest land between Beechertown Launch Ramp and the Silvermine Take-out Ramp. This closure also applies to Ferebee Memorial Park.
Debris removal operations are occurring at multiple sites along the Nantahala River. Operations include the use of large trucks and heavy machinery. There will be areas of Highway 19/74 within the gorge that are reduced to one lane of traffic.
Contractors have been working simultaneously at four sites for debris removal. Today they completed removal at one site near the rock quarry.
Visitors should avoid these areas to ensure their own safety and that of crews assessing and clearing debris. Follow the National Forests in North Carolina on Facebook or Twitter for updates and photos.
