Gatlinburg and areas of Pigeon Forge, including Dollywood Resort, are being evacuated as forest fires approach with strong winds. Details on www.knoxnews.com
I drove through the area this past weekend. They are getting several inches of rain yesterday and today. Fires should be all but gone. As for effects it was not noticeable except in isolated and areas beyond what some burnt shrubs and trees look like. Smoke was all but gone except one area around Jellico, TN.
hope it helps. Think you will be fine to enjoy the inside water activities and some hiking it desired.
Ober Gatlinburg is a small ski area located on top of a mountain with an incredibly narrow, winding road. I'm sure they can't give much accurate information because they can't get up there right now because of the fires, fallen trees, probably downed power lines, etc.The reports look just awful! It's odd, though, how completely contradictory they are about that one Ober Gatlinburg place. TEMA says it's destroyed but their website says, "Due to this unfortunate situation, our operation will be closed Tuesday 11/29 and Wednesday 11/30. We are gathering information and will give updates as we receive them. Our structure on the mountain and our animals in the Wildlife Encounter are safe. Please keep our rescue workers in your thoughts and prayers." I know it's difficult to assess and get the word out quickly but to have such opposite reports??
YAY...and thank you, Richard!Wyndham Smoky Mtns and Great Smokies have not been impacted..
I drove through the area this past weekend. They are getting several inches of rain yesterday and today. Fires should be all but gone. As for effects it was not noticeable except in isolated and areas beyond what some burnt shrubs and trees look like. Smoke was all but gone except one area around Jellico, TN.
hope it helps. Think you will be fine to enjoy the inside water activities and some hiking it desired.