Threat of 90 mph gusts prompts Great Smoky Mountains National Park to close key roads

A dire forecast of winds near 50 mph with gusts of up to 90 mph has prompted the National Park Service to close key roads in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The high winds — and a 100% chance of rain — are expected between 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 30, and 6 a.m. Thursday, March 31, the National Weather Service says.

“People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches,” the NWS says.

“Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.”

The threat is greatest in the Smoky Mountains and nearby foothills, where roads are lined with large trees and boulders, forecasters say.

It’s possible the winds could also add fuel to wildfires, including a 960-acre fire that has been ongoing in Great Smoky Mountains National Park since the weekend.

“Hikers are advised to avoid hiking during this time period across the park, particularly in areas with standing dead trees,” Great Smoky Mountains officials said in a release.

“Park visitor centers, campgrounds, and picnic areas remain open at this time. Visitors should exercise extreme caution when making travel plans. Due to dry conditions and damaging winds, the risk of fire danger is increased.”

Among the roads closed starting at 8 a.m. March 30 is Newfound Gap Road, the chief passage from Gatlinburg in Tennessee to Cherokee in North Carolina. Other closures include Cades Cove Loop Road, Foothills Parkway West (from Chilhowee Lake to Wears Valley), and Foothills Parkway East, the park said.

“The following roads are likely to begin closing after noon on Wednesday, March 30: Little River Road, Wear Cove Gap Road, Laurel Creek Road, and Tremont Road,” the National Park Service says.

“At this time, the high winds are anticipated to affect primarily the Tennessee side of the park. Road closures may occur earlier than expected and additional roads may close as conditions warrant.”

When the high wind warning expires March 31, the park will send crews to “assess damage and begin clearing roads as needed for reopening,” officials said.

This story was originally published March 30, 2022 at 7:26 AM with the headline "Threat of 90 mph gusts prompts Great Smoky Mountains National Park to close key roads."