Storm, floods cause damage at Mount Rainier National Park

Published 1:30 am Sunday, February 9, 2020

Associated Press

LONGMIRE — Mount Rainier National Park was hit by flooding and landslides that closed all roads to the park and damaged roads, trails and buildings.

The damage throughout the park is expected to be revealed as extensive as floodwaters recede and snow melts. The Seattle Times reported the news was announced Saturday night as drier weather had taken hold in much of the region, lasting at least through Monday. That should cause water levels to fall.

At Mount Rainier National Park, all roads were closed. There is no access to Paradise or the Longmire Historic Landmark District. Park staff had to clear an emergency access route to evacuate National Park Inn guests and remaining park staff at Longmire.

Continued flooding within the park is damaging roads, trails, and historic structures, including the National Park Inn and other nationally significant buildings. Delays are anticipated in access to Longmire, Paradise and the Carbon River area, even as other roads outside the park open.