Great Smoky Mountains National Park experienced high winds this morning with sustained winds of approximately 30 mph and gusts up to 50 mph across the Tennessee side of the mountains. Newfound Gap Road, Laurel Creek Road, Little River Road and Cades Cove Loop Road are all currently closed due to downed trees. Winds are expected to grow stronger this evening with a High Wind Warning in effect until 5:00 a.m. on Sunday morning. All roadways will remain closed until the warning has expired. At that time, crews will assess damage and begin clearing roads for reopening.
Hikers are advised to avoid hiking during this time period across the park, particularly in areas with standing dead trees. Park visitor centers, campgrounds, and picnic areas remain open at this time. Visitors should exercise extreme caution when making travel plans.
Please visit https://www.nps.gov/grsm/learn/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm to view images from webcams across the park including Newfound Gap. For the most up to date information about road closures, follow SmokiesRoadsNPS on Twitter.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
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TetonHikingTrails.com
Ramble On: A History of Hiking
Articles and information on hiking, outdoor adventures and the Great Smoky Mountains. For hiking trail information in the Smokies, please visit HikingintheSmokys.com
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