Yosemite National Park has seen record melts from record snowpack in the mountains, which have forced park officials to close some areas due to high water levels in rivers in the park.
Although areas along the Yosemite Valley are expected to be open, they said, rafting, swimming and picnicking in areas along the river might not be allowed until July. One of the park’s rivers, the Merced, crested just inches below flood level last week.
Snow surveys were conducted on May 1st, with results showing snow more than 200% above average in many areas of the park, a sign that there may be more high water and flooding ahead. “I’ve been in Yosemite for 27 years and I’ve never seen this much snow,” said park spokesman Scott Gediman.
