The Army Corps of Engineers reminds visitors to the Arkansas River that a small craft advisory is still in effect and that some campsites are closed over the Memorial Day weekend, including several in Southeast Arkansas.
Several campsites along the Arkansas River have been affected by the higher river flows. Parks with closures are: Cherokee, Clear Creek, Huff’s Island, Sheppard’s Island and Trulock, a spokesman said in a news release.
Even though the river is high, it is still open for business, however officials don’t recommend boating or swimming on the river over the holiday weekend.
During high flows, strong currents and large debris can threaten the safety of pleasure craft. Small craft advisories are issued when flows exceed 70,000 cubic feet per second. Flows on the Arkansas River downstream of Little Rock will be cresting near 230,000 c.f.s. during the next few days. Following the crest, flows are expected to fall to the 150,000 c.f.s. range and remain there through mid-June.
More rain could push flows higher or cause the advisory to remain in effect longer. Details: www.swl-wc.usace.army.mil