ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Winter weather expected this weekend will prompt a full closure of the Blue Ridge Parkway, park officials said Thursday.

The closure, which will affect all sections of the parkway in North Carolina and Virginia, is set to begin Friday evening, Jan. 23. Visitors and residents should expect closed gates and barricades, including in areas that typically remain ungated.

Officials warned that the storm could create hazardous conditions, including fallen trees, debris and limited access for emergency responders. The parkway is not salted and only minimally plowed, making travel unsafe and winter recreation strongly discouraged.

Closures will remain until staff can safely evaluate road conditions and remove debris. Updates on road status will be posted on the National Park Service website.