Roads and areas in Great Smoky Mountains National Park are starting to close Oct. 9 in preparation for Hurricane Isaias.
These areas will close:
- Balsam Mountain Campground will close at 5 p.m. Oct. 9
- U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road will close at 8 p.m. Oct. 9
The park is closing roads and areas because of expected strong winds associated with Hurricane Isaias and the potential for downed trees and debris.
“The park advises visitors to prepare for weather impacts from Hurricane Isaias this weekend,” the park said in an Oct. 9 release.
“The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for the area beginning Oct. 9 with potential for 70 mile per hour wind gusts forecast on the Tennessee side of the park. Moderate rainfall is expected across the park,” the park’s release continued.
All visitors are urged to monitor weather conditions, stay up to date with
park alerts and use caution while traveling or recreating in the park.
For people looking for an alternative to Balsam Mountain Campground, campsites are available at Smokemont and Deep Creek campgrounds.
Updated Great Smoky Mountains National Park road closures and other updates are available on the park website and via the @GreatSmokyNPS social media account on X.
Devarrick Turner is a trending news reporter. Email devarrick.turner@knoxnews.com.
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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Newfound Gap Road in Great Smoky Mountains to close due to Hurricane Isaias
