A flood hit Yellowstone National Park on June 13, 2022. The disaster was caused by a combination of unusually heavy rains and rapid snow melt(融化). The high and fast water flows destroyed bridges and swept away entire roadways, leaving communities and homes isolated. Fortunately, the approximately 10,000 park visitors were safely evacuated.
The town of Gardiner, along the Montana-Wyoming border, was particularly hard hit. The floodwaters left almost 900 people with no power or water for many days. Gardiner's economy, which depends on the almost three-quarters of a million visitors who pass through the park's north gate annually, is likely to take a hit. The floodwates severely damaged the main north entrance road to Yellowstone, and could take your s to rebuild.
Park officials have begun work on improving another road to Gardiner. This will ensure that locals can access food, supplies, and other essential emergency services. A limited number of tourists may also be allowed into Gardiner once the road is stable.
Yellowstone's north gate is closed indefinitely. But the park's south gate opened to visitors on June 22, 2022. Park officials have started a new entry system to prevent overcrowding. It is based on the last number of the visitor's vehicle license plate and the calendar date of the month. Cars with old(奇数的) numbers can visit the park on odd days of the month, while those with even(偶数的) numbers can go on even days.
Established in 1872, Yellowstone is America's oldest national park. The 3,472-square-mile reserve spans three states and is home to many unique wildlife. It is known for its natural beauty that includes mountains, rivers and lakes. The forces of fire and ice shaped the park over thousand s of years.