FISH AND GAME: BE OUT OF THE WOODS AND OFF THE WATER BY SATURDAY EVENING

FISH AND GAME: BE OUT OF THE WOODS AND OFF THE WATER BY SATURDAY EVENING

CONCORD, N.H. -- The State of New Hampshire will experience a significant weather event this weekend, which will likely bring high winds – including the possibility of hurricane force winds – and heavy rains, which could cause flash flooding, particularly in small streams and rivers. Due to the severity of this storm, N.H. Fish and Game Department Executive Director Glenn Normandeau is urging all outdoor enthusiasts to be out of the woods, off the water and headed for home by Saturday evening.

"It is unlikely that search and rescue operations will be feasible during the height of the storm. For that reason, we are urging the public – whether you're hiking, camping, fishing or boating anywhere in the state – to complete your outdoor recreation and get home by Saturday night. For your safety and the safety of rescue personnel, get out of the woods and off the water by Saturday evening,” Normandeau said.

Campgrounds and day use areas in all New Hampshire State Parks, Forests and Trails, will be closed from 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 27, through Monday, August 29. Parks plan to reopen on Tuesday morning. The reopening of the parks will be subject to any damage and debris removal needed in the aftermath of the storm.

The National Forest Services has also informed the State that all trails and campgrounds in the White Mountain National Forest will be closed. Appalachian Mountain Club huts will also be closed. Trailheads will be posted and parking lots gated. Those in the hiking community are urged to spread the word to fellow hikers and backcountry campers.

Anticipated heavy rains can cause flash flooding that can turn tiny mountain brooks into raging, impassable torrents without notice. Statewide, all waterbodies are expected to rise, and flows to become too swift and strong to navigate safely. Boaters are advised to stay off waterbodies statewide on Sunday and stay off until conditions improve.

For updated New Hampshire hurricane-related information and safety tips, visit http://www.nh.gov/readynh.