Two sections of Blue Ridge Parkway closed in anticipation of Helene flooding, wind damage

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Two sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway are closed for the next several days in anticipation of Hurricane Helene’s impacts on western North Carolina.

Just as the leaves begin to change, the National Park Service says officials are monitoring the projected path of Helene and “predecessor” rainfall event Wednesday in making the decision. Based on expected periods of heavy rainfall, flooding and strong winds through Friday, closures will begin the afternoon of Sept. 25 in the following locations:

• Milepost 314 – 375.6 from north of Linville Falls (southern Avery County) to Ox Creek (northeast Buncombe County)
• Milepost 393 – 455 from the N.C. 191/French Broad overlook (southern Buncombe County) to Soco Gap (western Haywood County)

Queen City News is forecasting more than a foot of rainfall in this part of the state.

These weather-related closures are full closures to all public use. Closures are expected to remain in place until the storm passes, and staff can safely assess the park and clear any storm damage.

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