C&O Canal Sites Closed By Potomac Flooding In Md.
HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP) -- Flooding is occurring along the Potomac River in Frederick and Washington Counties.
The National Weather Service says moderate flooding is occurring along the Potomac River in the Frederick County town of Point of Rocks. Officials in Williamsport say floodwaters from the Potomac have flowed into Riverbottom Park and closed a street leading to the park.
The weather service says the river exceeded its 16-foot flood stage Wednesday night. By 8:15 a.m. Thursday, it was above 20 feet.
The river was expected to crest at nearly 22 feet around 8 p.m. Thursday.
Meanwhile, high water in the Potomac River is prompting closures in the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park.
Park managers said Thursday that Section A of the Billy Goat Trail and the Olmsted Island bridges in the Great Falls area are closed. The Spring Gap and Paw Paw campgrounds are also closed.
Officials say high water covers the canal towpath near Whites Ferry, Edwards Ferry and Harpers Ferry, and at Dam 4 in Washington County.
Several park roads are also closed, and officials say all hiker-biker campsites and boat ramps should be avoided.
Managers say high water is expected through the weekend, and park users are urged to stay a safe distance from the river.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
