Hurricane Hilary: Joshua Tree National Park, Mojave National Preserve closed

Erin Rode, Palm Springs Desert Sun
·1 min read
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A Joshua tree appears to be only slightly damaged by the recent Geology Fire in Pleasant Valley in Joshua Tree National Park, Calif., June 16, 2023.

Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave National Preserve are closed to visitors in response to Hurricane Hilary.

A Flash Flood Watch is in place for Joshua Tree National Park from Saturday at 11 a.m. through Monday at 5 p.m. Park staff said Friday they would spend the next 36 hours initiating the closure ahead of when the storm's worst impacts are expected.

"Park staff will continue to monitor the park and assess conditions as needed. Visitors are encouraged to seek shelter and have a safety plan. ... Reconsider outdoor activities for this weekend, be prepared to turn around if you experience moving water on roadways and be alert for lightning," stated a news release from park officials.

Mojave National Preserve also was closed to visitors starting Friday at 2 p.m., with officials particularly concerned about potential debris flow from the recent York Fire.

“Travel in the preserve and the surrounding region is definitely not advised during these tropical storm landfall events,” said Acting Superintendent Debra Hughson in a statement. “Debris-laden water can rise rapidly on area roads and can quickly become lethal.”

—Erin Rode

More: Hurricane Hilary live updates: First quarter of an inch of rainfall coming this afternoon

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Hurricane Hilary: Joshua Tree National Park, Mojave National Preserve closed