Flooding in Sevier County Closes Roads, Forces Evacuations
Flash Floods Ravage Pigeon Forge Area
Torrential Downpour Causes Water Damage and Road Closures
Pigeon Forge, Tenn. - A barrage of showers and thunderstorms struck Sevier County on Thursday evening, triggering flash flooding and forcing the closure of several roads. As of 11:30 pm, the Sevier County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) reported that the following roads were closed:
- East Parkway from Teaster Lane to Wears Valley Road
- Wears Valley Road from East Parkway to Dollywood Lane
- Dollywood Lane from Wears Valley Road to Dollywood Blvd.
The Pigeon Forge Police Department (PFPD) reported that its officers assisted in evacuating residents from flooded homes and businesses. The Department also urged motorists to avoid the affected areas and seek alternate routes.
The flooding was caused by a sudden and intense downpour that began around 8:00 pm. Within hours, the area had received several inches of rain, overwhelming local drainage systems and causing creeks and streams to overflow their banks.
One of the hardest-hit areas was the Dollywood's HeartSong Lodge Resort, which is located on East Parkway. The resort was forced to evacuate guests and staff as water poured into the building. According to Dollywood officials, the resort sustained significant water damage and will be closed for an undetermined period of time.
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