"Wildfires and High Winds Force Closures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park"

Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina closed roads and campgrounds ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday due to hurricane-force winds, which increased the risk of fire danger. A wildfire on Rich Mountain Gap prompted voluntary evacuations in the nearby town of Townsend, but was 25% contained by Tuesday afternoon. The closures, including a portion of U.S. 441, were implemented to ensure employee and visitor safety during the dangerous weather event. High wind alerts have become more frequent in the park in recent years, reflecting the impact of climate change.