Severe Flooding Shuts Down The World’s Most Visited National Park In TN

In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is home to a trendy vacation destination. Floods arrived Sunday, July 29th, and this area and the surrounding area experienced severe flooding following an intense storm that quickly brought over five inches of rain. The deluge caused widespread flash flooding and mudslides, severely impacting Dollywood and other parts of Sevier County. The popular tourist destinations, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are low-lying areas due to the water “dumping from some of the highest mountains in the world, making it a pothole for flooding,” states meteorologist Pau Barys of Channel 9 local news.

Flooding at Dollywood

The flooding at Dollywood was dramatic. Water rushed through the park, creating scenes reminiscent of the park's water rides. Videos and photos quickly went viral, showing visitors wading through waist-deep water. The flooding was so severe that it necessitated the evacuation of the park to ensure the safety of all guests and staff.

Evacuation and Response

The Pigeon Forge Fire Department and Dollywood's emergency response teams acted swiftly to manage the situation. Their quick response helped evacuate the park, and only one minor injury was reported safely. Many visitors shared their experiences on social media, praising the efficiency and calm demeanor of the responders.

Impact on Sevier County

Beyond Dollywood, the heavy rains caused significant flooding throughout Sevier County. Several roads were closed due to rising waters and downed power lines, and emergency services were stretched thin as they responded to numerous incidents. The Little Pigeon River swelled dramatically, contributing to the flooding in the area.

Aftermath and Recovery

By the following day, much of Dollywood had been restored to working order, though some water rides remained closed for additional safety checks and repairs. The park reopened at noon, with visitors able to enjoy most attractions. The dedication of Dollywood's maintenance crew and the support from local authorities played a crucial role in the park's swift recovery​​.

The flooding is a stark reminder of weather's unpredictability and the importance of preparedness. Despite the challenges, the community's quick response and resilience ensured that the impact was managed effectively, allowing life in Pigeon Forge to return to normal swiftly.

You can refer to local news coverage on WBIR and WFMY News 2 for more detailed updates and personal accounts from visitors.