SC National Forests closing Offices and Sites due to Storm

In the interest of public health and safety, the USDA Forest Service announces that it is necessary to close areas on the Andrew Pickens, Enoree, Long Cane and the Francis Marion Ranger Districts located on the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests. Sites will be evaluated for health and safety and reopened as conditions allow following the passage of Hurricane Michael. Forest Service officials at the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests strongly recommend that, due to expected wind and rainfall, the public not use trails or general forest areas. Emergency response times will be multiplied if an incident or medical emergency were to occur. Excessive rain and high winds have the potential to create high water, flash floods, falling trees, mudslides, and severe damage to facilities and roads. Some of the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests is heavily forested, remote and mountainous, making the potential for hazardous conditions significant. Anyone planning a visit anywhere on the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests should seriously consider postponing their visit until the threat of Michael diminishes. Follow the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests’ Facebook page and website at www.fs.usda.gov/scnfs or call headquarters at 803-561-4000 for more information.