Warnings of winds that could reach around 90 mph led to the closure of some roads throughout Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee) today.
According to a report, the Newfound Gap Road, Cades Cove Loop Road, Foothills Parkway West (from Chilhowee Lake to Wears Valley), and Foothills Parkway East were all closed early Wednesday, while Little River Road, Wear Cove Gap Road, Laurel Creek Road, Cherokee Orchard Road, and Tremont Road will be closing at noon, a park release said.
The decision to shut down the roads came after the National Weather Service issued a high warning for the mountain beginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday through 6 a.m. Thursday. Officials anticipated sustained winds between 40-50 mph, with gusts up to 90 mph in the mountains.
High winds are expected to be affecting mainly the Tennessee part of the park. Road closures could happen sooner than anticipated and additional roads may be closed depending on the conditions, the park’s release said.
After the high wind advisory is over, park crews will be sent to evaluate the damage and start clearing roads as needed for reopening.
Hikers are advised to avoid hiking during this time across the park, specifically in areas with standing dead trees.
Campgrounds, park visitor centers, and picnic spots will remain accessible. Because of the dry conditions and destructive winds, the chance of fire danger is higher.
To get the latest information on road closures, follow @SmokiesRoadsNPS on Twitter. You may also use the park’s webcams to monitor the conditions throughout the park, including Clingmans Dome, Look Rock, and Purchase Knob.
This story originally appeared on National Parks Traveler.
