Three years ago today, Yellowstone National Park experiences a massive, 500-year flood event that led to rockslides, mudslides, and floods in the northern portions of the park.
Several sections of park roads, water and wastewater systems, power lines, and other critical infrastructure were destroyed during the event. All park visitors in developed areas were evacuated within 36 hours and the park quickly set a range of life and safety objectives to ensure that both visitors and employees were safe and accounted for.
Power had been restored, severed wastewater lines had been diverted, and planning for recovery and resumption of operations had all been complete within 48 hours, and by June 22, 2022, the south loop of the park was reopened. Several other closures continued throughout the summer and the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins were the last to reopen over a year after (July 1, 2023).
“In what was a very tough time for many, we remain extremely grateful for the amazing support from our team of employees; park partners; surrounding states and gateway communities; contractors; congressional delegations; federal, state, and local government officials; federal and state agencies; and national NPS and DOI leadership. Additionally, we appreciate everyone who visited the park after the flood for their patience as we navigated temporary closures and repairs. Thank you all!” – Yellowstone National Park
