Flash flooding prompts landslides: Forest Service announces road closures
Although meteorologists say the worst may be over from the category one hurricane named “Alberto” who swept through the south and left a devastating amount of rain in its wake, the after effects will still be felt and road closures continue to pop up around the county.
The U.S. Forest Service announced its closure of Forest Service Road 283 in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests Thursday night.
Forest Service crews responded to a landslide event Thursday, on FS Road 238 in the Chattahoochee National Forest near High Shoals Falls. Flash flooding from Tropical Storm Alberto caused the landslide and flooding, leading to the road closure. Photo by U.S. Forest Service/Jason Demas.
According to forest service officials, crews responded to a landslide event which had been caused by the flash flooding. As a means to help prevent any further harm or injury, the road has been closed for an indefinite amount of time.
Additionally, the U.S. Forest Service indicated that many roads on the national forests may be blocked by fallen trees and down power lines, including Tallulah River Road, Indian Gap Road, among many others.
Landslides are often caused by heavy rainfall and can worsen the effects of flooding significantly and become dangerous quickly. Forest service officials urge to not travel on roads which have been otherwise deemed unsafe as it will only heighten the need for search and rescue personnel and further risk injury to life and property.
Flash flooding on Tallulah River Road at Line Branch caused significant damage, requiring the route to Tate City be closed. Photo by Steve Sickmond.
The U.S. Forest Service will continue to assess road conditions and conduct saw-out as safe conditions allow. Once all assessments are completed, a comprehensive list and map of the road situation will be provided. Although, officials said it may take weeks to completely reopen parts of the forest so patience is advised.
Find updates and a list of site closures on Twitter, Facebook or the national forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/conf.