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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

All articles tagged with #great smoky mountains national park

environment2 years ago

"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.

natural-disasters2 years ago

Wildfire Threat Forces Closures and Evacuations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park has closed roads and campgrounds due to high fire risk caused by hurricane-force winds and gusts. A wildfire has broken out near the park, growing to six acres. No structures are threatened, but some homes near the park boundary have been voluntarily evacuated. The closures will remain in effect until the high wind and red flag warnings expire. The park is already under a burn ban, and visitors are urged to exercise caution and check for updates.

wildlife-conservation2 years ago

"Bear Encounter Forces Closure of Rich Mountain Road in GSMNP"

Rich Mountain Road in the Cades Cove area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park has been closed indefinitely after a visitor had a close encounter with a habituated bear. The park aims to protect both visitors and bears by preventing intentional feeding and conditioning of bears to human food. Bears are approaching vehicles in search of food during this critical time when their primary food sources are scarce. The park urges responsible behavior and provides tips on how to prevent bear incidents and ensure safety in bear habitat.

missing-person2 years ago

Missing Tampa Hiker Found Safe in Great Smoky Mountains

Gordon Kaye, a 69-year-old man from Tampa, has gone missing while on a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. He was last seen on April 22 and was reported missing by his family on April 26. The park rangers are searching for him and have asked anyone with information to contact them. Kaye may be suffering from a mental health crisis.