Many Roads Remain Closed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Outdoor Recreation Discouraged

September 30, 2024

Great Smoky National Park is receiving many questions regarding the status of the park and surrounding areas. We posted the below update on social media and the park website this evening (Monday 9/30/24) in response to these questions: 

Wondering whether you should reschedule your trip to the Smokies due to impacts from Hurricane Helene? While parts of the national park are open, outdoor recreation is currently discouraged due to park staffing being stretched and visitor safety concerns. However, Sevier County, which includes Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, is fully open to those who can access the county through safe routes. We are working hard to get all major park roads open to the public as soon as possible.

We’ll continue to share updates on the status of roads and park facilities on the park’s Current Conditions page https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/conditions.htm and social media. 

Hurricane Helene recovery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

GATLINBURG, Tenn.—The National Park Service (NPS) continues to assess conditions and to address damage following the impacts from Hurricane Helene in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Today, park staff are prioritizing assessments of high use roads and trails as well as radio repeaters and historic structures throughout the park. 

Several park roads, including Newfound Gap Road/US 441, remain closed. There are no current reopening estimates for closed roads. Visit the park website https://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm for a map of what’s open and closed. 

Park staff and resources are currently limited at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Several park employees in both North Carolina and Tennessee are dealing with emergencies at home or are unable to drive to work due to closed roads. Multiple employees are also assisting the Blue Ridge Parkway and surrounding communities.  

While we recognize that this is a popular time to visit the park, visitors are encouraged to reschedule their trips for their own safety. If visitors choose to visit, they are asked to recreate responsibly—know your limits, avoid water recreation and know that emergency response times may be delayed. Hiking and backcountry travel are not recommended due to the unpredictability of creek crossings, potential of downed trees and other hazardous trail conditions. Emergency services are currently stretched thin and have already responded to several incidents (many unrelated to the storm) in the last several days. 

Visitors should also be mindful of closures and limited resources in some communities surrounding the park. Western North Carolina communities and Cocke County (Tennessee), in particular experienced significant flooding and have downed trees, damaged powerlines and limited resources. The North Carolina Department of Transportation advises that all travel in Western North Carolina should be for emergencies only. Surrounding communities may have limited resources (gas, food, water) available to visitors at this time. 

What’s currently closed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

  • Balsam Mountain area, campground and roads.  
  • Big Creek area, campground and roads.  
  • Cataloochee Valley area, campground and roads (including Hwy 284).  
  • Deep Creek (the creek itself) between Indian Creek Bridge and the park boundary closed to all water activity. 
  • Deep Creek Campground.  
  • Foothills Parkway East.  
  • Kuwohi Road (formerly known as Clingmans Dome Road).  
  • Kuwohi Visitor Center. 
  • Lakeview Drive. 
  • Newfound Gap Road/Hwy 441.  
  • Oconaluftee Visitor Center. 
  • Parson Branch Road (due to Flint Gap Fire impacts).  
  • Smokemont Campground.

Additional updates will be shared on the park website https://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm. 

Crews Looking for More than 100 Unaccounted for in Unicoi, Washington County

Crews Looking for More than 100 Unaccounted for in Unicoi, Washington County

September 30, 2024

Unicoi County, TN (WOKI) More than a hundred people are still missing in two of the hardest-hit areas in East Tennessee after the remnants of Hurricane Helene brought massive flooding, damaging infrastructure and leaving people stranded.

Rescue crews, to include those from Knoxville and Knox County, are assisting the search efforts in Unicoi County, responding to the Erwin area, where more than 50 hospital workers and patients had to be rescued by air Friday after being stranded on top of Unicoi County Hospital.

The latest numbers show that 47 people are unaccounted for in Unicoi County, while 62 remain missing in Washington County.

It comes after the counties became two of the hardest-hit areas in East Tennessee after the remnants of Hurricane Helene brought massive flooding. (Courtesy: WVLT)
Sheriff Identifies Two Killed in Cocke County after Flooding

Sheriff Identifies Two Killed in Cocke County after Flooding

September 30, 2024

(Story courtesy of WVLT News)

Cocke County, TN (WVLT) Cocke County Mayor Rob Mathis provided an update on storm damage and deaths Sunday evening.

Mathis said the county has suffered two deaths in relation to the flood. Cocke County Sheriff CJ Ball later identified those two as Jean and Mike Obrist.

During the update, Mathis also said all missing people in Cocke County have been accounted for.

“That, in itself, is miraculous,” Mathis said about all missing people being accounted for. “That is a testimony to the hard work of our emergency responders who have rescued people by land, by water and by air. We’ve done everything we can to get to everybody. Everyone who was in need of rescue has been rescued.”

Mathis said multiple agencies are continuing to respond to calls of service as county residents recover from the flood.

“We are so grateful for everyone, both here in the county and all of the folks from outside agencies and people, pouring in support, food, help and rescue efforts to help our county. It’s been amazing,” Mathis said. “Seeing how everyone has pulled together is truly inspirational.”

In order to best serve specific needs, phone numbers have been set up for residents to call. Anyone with an emergency is asked to dial 911. To report missing persons, call 423-540-5551. To make a request for non-perishable food and water donations, call 423-540-0171. Cash donations can be made with Cocke County Partnership, Mathis said, adding that a phone number has not been setup yet.

“We’re here to help you. Just as we did not rest until every single person was rescued, we will still not rest until everyone gets what they need and this is resolved,” Mathis said.

There were also two other “weather-related” deaths in East Tennessee reported on Sunday out of Johnson and Unicoi counties.

A list of missing people is being compiled by TBI and TEMA, and an updated total of missing individuals is expected to be released later Sunday evening.

Cocke County Mayor Rob Mathis said multiple agencies are continuing to respond to calls of service as county residents recover from the flood. (Courtesy: WVLT)
Sevier County Officials Lifting Some Evacuation Orders Due to Flooding

Sevier County Officials Lifting Some Evacuation Orders Due to Flooding

September 30, 2024

Local emergency officials Sevier County are decreasing the amount of areas under evacuation orders due to flood waters from the French Broad, Pigeon and Nolichucky Rivers along with Douglas Lake.

In the latest update from Sevier County, emergency management officials have coordinated with TVA officials and advised the current release of water will remain the same for the next several days.

Some subdivisions and residences are still affected by flooding, and residents in Deerfield Mobile Home Park and Lazy River Lane are asked to continue following evacuation orders and refrain from returning to their homes until it is safe.

Open areas with restrictions include:

River Mist Lane (Deep River Drive, River Lane)
River Dance Lane (Waterside)
Newsome Road (Waterside)
River Breeze Drive (Waterside)

Open and available to return areas include:

Binginham Island
Luther Catlett Circle (Bottom)
River Run Circle
River Island Boulevard
Tranquillity Lane/Gentlemans Way
River Vista Circle
River Bend Road
Indian Warpath (Waterside)
Twin Oaks Way
Betsy Court (Off Hodges Ferry Road)
Hodges Ferry Road
Rays Gap Road

Sevier County EMA say to self-evacuate if you live in a low-lying area near the French Broad River and feel your home may be threatened.

An image of the Sevier County Courthouse in Sevierville, Tennessee. In the foreground is a statue of Dolly Parton, sculpted by Jim Gray and dedicated in 1987. The Sevierville courthouse was designed by Kenneth McDonald. Built in 1895, the brick and stone Sevier County Courthouse, an Italianate structure, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This image © Capitolshots Photography/TwoFiftyFour Photos, LLC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
TEMA with an Update Regarding Hurricane Helene’s Impact on Tennessee

TEMA with an Update Regarding Hurricane Helene’s Impact on Tennessee

September 30, 2024

KEY HIGHLIGHTS from Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s update regarding Hurricane Helene’s impact on Tennessee – Sunday evening September 29, 2024

  • Impacted counties do not have the capability to receive material donations or volunteers that have not been requested by state or local authorities. Do not self-deploy; it hinders life safety operations in impacted counties.
  • The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has established a hotline (1-800-824-3463) to coordinate reports of missing persons in the areas affected by the recent flooding in Northeast Tennessee.
  • Water and wastewater infrastructure is impacted across the affected area.
  • FEMA has authorized Public Assistance (Category B) emergency protective measures including direct federal assistance at 75 percent federal funding for Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Johnson, and Unicoi counties.
  • FEMA has authorized to provide Public Assistance (Category B) emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support at 75 percent federal funding for Hawkins and Washington counties.
  • Gov. Bill Lee has declared a State of Emergency through Executive Order 105.
  • Carter, Cocke, Greene, Sevier, Unicoi, and Washington counties have instructed residents in certain communities to evacuate.
  • Requests for assistance are being fulfilled through the State Emergency Operations Center, including private sector aide.
  • Emergency Services Coordinators (ESCs) from TDOT, TDCI, TDH, THP, TN Department of Human Services, TN Department of Military, and more are monitoring and responding to the situation to provide assistance to local jurisdictions.
  • Sheltering locations can be found on TEMA’s website https://www.tn.gov/tema.html.
  • Many roadways have been impacted by flooding. Before going out, visit TDOT’s SmartWay website https://smartway.tn.gov/.

CURRENT SITUATION

While local communities appreciate the volunteer spirit during disasters, please DO NOT send donations that have not been requested by state or local authorities. Do not self-deploy to disaster areas – this will hinder response and recovery operations. A fund with the East Tennessee Foundation https://easttennesseefoundation.org/ has been established for monetary donations for impacted counties.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has established a hotline to coordinate reports of missing persons in the areas affected by the recent flooding in Northeast Tennessee. Those wishing to report missing individuals believed to be in the affected areas across East Tennessee may contact 1-800-TBI-FIND (1-800-824-3463). Callers should be prepared to relay as much identifying information as possible, including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification, and last known whereabouts. Recognizing the importance of accounting for individuals who may be missing, TBI urges the public to refrain from calling to inquire about the status of personal properties in the affected areas.

As floodwaters continue to recede, we are beginning to have a better understanding of impacted water and wastewater infrastructure and some plants have reported problems. If you are without water, please check with your water system for more information and recommended actions.

Due to the continued impacts, Gov. Bill Lee declared a major disaster and state of emergency through Executive Order 105 to provide critical relief to survivors of the severe weather and flooding in Tennessee. FEMA has authorized Public Assistance (Category B) emergency protective measures including direct federal assistance at 75 percent federal funding for Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Johnson, and Unicoi counties.FEMA has authorized to provide Public Assistance (Category B) emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support at 75 percent federal funding for Hawkins and Washington counties.

TEMA continues to deploy personnel at the request of the counties and is coordinating with local officials to assess damages and ensure life safety needs are met. TEMA recommends residents continue to tune into information provided by their local officials to remain safe.

POWER OUTAGES AND UTILITIES

  • As of September 29, at 1:00 p.m. CDT, there are approximately 18,800 reports of power outages statewide.
  • TVA continues to monitor water levels.
  • Several wastewater treatment plants have been impacted or are reporting problems due to flooding impacts:
    • Cocke County, Newport Utilities Board
    • Hamblen County, Lowland Wastewater Treatment Plant
    • Johnson County, Mountain City Wastewater Treatment Plant
    • Unicoi County, Erwin Utilities Authority
  • As of 1:00 p.m. CDT on Sept. 29, six counties have reported water utilities with operational issues and four counties have issued Boil Water Advisories. If you have lost water or have a loss of water pressure, check with your water system for more information and recommended actions:

Reported Issues w/ Boil Water Advisory in Effect (County – Water System)

Carter County—Elizabeth Water Department

Cocke County—Newport Utilities Board

Johnson County—Mountain City Water Department

Unicoi County—Erwin Utilities Authority

Reported Issues w/out Boil Water Advisory in Effect (County- Water System)

Carter County— Roan Mountain Utility District

Carter County—Hampton Utility District

Carter County—South Elizabethton Utility District

Cocke County—Newport Utilities Board

Greene County— Chuckey Utility District

Greene County—Cross Anchor Utility District

Greene County—Greenville Water and Light Commission

Greene County— Glen Hills Utility District

Greene County—Mosheim Utility District

Greene County—Old Knoxville Hwy Utility District

Johnson County— Brownlow Utility District

Johnson County—Carderview Utility District

Unicoi County— Erwin Utilities Authority

Washington County- Jonesborough Water Department

TBI

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation established a hotline to coordinate reports of missing persons in the areas affected by the recent flooding in Northeast Tennessee. Those wishing to report missing individuals believed to be in the affected areas across East Tennessee may contact 1- 800-TBI-FIND (1-800-824-3463). Callers should be prepared to relay as much identifying information as possible, including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification, and last known whereabouts. As of Sunday, Sept. 29, at 1 p.m., the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has received 337 calls seeking information about individuals in East Tennessee.

Authorities continue their efforts to locate the following number of people. With limited cell service and infrastructure challenges in the impacted areas, authorities believe many of these individuals are safe, but unable to presently identify themselves as such.

  • Washington County: 62
  • Johnson County: 4
  • Unicoi County: 47
  • Other Surrounding Counties: 40

SHELTERING LOCATIONS

THP

  • THP is providing assistance with traffic, welfare, searches, and other law enforcement responsibilities in response to flooding and damage in the affected counties.
  • THP is collaborating with TBI to assist with reunification.
  • North Carolina has closed I-40 West of Asheville at the state line.
  • I-26 at 40 mm is closed in Unicoi County due to flooding.

TDH

  • The Tennessee Department of Health has confirmed two weather-related fatalities.
    • One in Johnson County
    • One in Unicoi County
  • Several county health departments have been closed due to impacts.

TDOT

PROTECTIVE ACTIONS/KEY MESSAGES

  • Have multiple ways to receive warnings.
  • Do not self-deploy to assist impacted areas. Wait for local officials to issue guidance.
  • Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or walkways. Turn around, don’t drown.
  • Continue to monitor for updated weather information from reliable sources.
  • Contact your local emergency management agency if you need immediate assistance. 
Officials Ask Residents to Conserve Water after Greeneville Pumping Station Damaged by flooding, Treatment Plant Pumps Turned Off
Greeneville pumping station heavily damaged by flooding, treatment plant pumps turned off(Greeneville Water Commission)

Officials Ask Residents to Conserve Water after Greeneville Pumping Station Damaged by flooding, Treatment Plant Pumps Turned Off

September 29, 2024

The Chief of Police in Greeneville asking people to conserve water as the pumping station fails and very little is salvageable.

The Greeneville Water Commission says its intake structure was enveloped by the Nolichucky River Friday night after the Dam almost failed.

Saturday afternoon Officials say the pumps that feed the distribution system were turned off, meaning the water in the storage tanks is all that is left. Under normal conditions, this would be a 24-hour supply.

Officials are asking businesses like restaurants and non essential jobs to shut down. They are working with EMA and TEMA to set up water distribution centers.

Four Confirmed Weather-Related Deaths in Upper East Tennessee

September 29, 2024

There are four weather related deaths in Tennessee in the aftermath of Hurricane Helena.

At least 93 deaths have been reported across 6 states.

The confirmed deaths are out of Johnson and Unicoi counties. A list of missing people is being compiled by TBI and TEMA, at least 70 people are missing out of Unicoi County as of Sunday afternoon.

As a result of flooding from the Nolichucky River, rescuers found a casket floating through the debris and are working to identify the person.

Anyone unable to get in touch with a friend or loved one in the affected area is asked to call 423-560-0261. A donation collection center had been established at Southside FWB Church in Erwin.

TDOT with an Update Regarding Flooding and Road Conditions

TDOT with an Update Regarding Flooding and Road Conditions

September 29, 2024

The Tennessee Department of Transportation says 14 state bridges are closed, five of those are completely destroyed by recent storms caused by Helene.

The repair contracts to reconnect affected communities are underway, some will begin as early as tomorrow (Monday).

As water levels begin to fall additional issues are being found.

TEMA, National Guard and TDOT are all working together. 27 sections of roadways are affected.

TDOT Deputy Commissioner & Chief Engineer Will Reid says much of the work TDOT crews have focused on so far is recovery efforts and assisting local agencies.

Reid says TDOT has over 300 employees in the field across Region 1 to assess the damage and inspect bridges in preparation for repairs. He says TDOT has other Regions assisting in this recovery effort.

“Although we are getting some contracts ready for repair, we are still in the debris removal and assessment phase,” Reid said. “We have inspected over 100 bridges in the last 36 hours over seven counties. We still have hundreds to go. We are still working to assess the magnitude of this rainfall event,” Reid continued. “This event is in excess of a 500-year event, which what that means is we design our interstate bridges over hydraulic crossings for 100-year events. So, these are truly historic numbers we are seeing.”

They say 1.2 million gallons per second flowed over the Nolichucky Dam Friday, but thankfully the dam did not fail. To put that in perspective, there are 700 thousand gallons per second at Niagara Falls at it’s peak.

TDOT says they are concentrating their efforts on I-40 between mile marker 443 and 451 at the Tennessee North Carolina Line.

Also, I 26 between mile marker 40 and 43 and State route 81 in Unicoi County.

Photo courtesy of TDOT Cocke County

Sunday, September 29, 2024 | 04:42pm Courtesy of TDOT

Memphis, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Strike Force team and bridge inspection crews have been dispatched to East Tennessee to assist with recovery and repairs following historic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene.

Region 4’s bridge inspection team is inspecting impacted bridges with high water, assessing the erosion of soil around its piers and abutments due to water flow. Scour can weaken the bridge’s structural integrity. Proper evaluation is critical for ensuring the bridge’s safety, and having the extra team members in place will allow the inspection teams to cover more ground, potentially opening any closed routes.

Our Strike Force team is a specialized group that can deploy quickly in a disaster with the equipment needed. This team is made up of emergency responders, engineers, and transportation experts who work to remove debris and ensure public safety. The goal of this team is to provide immediate relief and begin the recovery process in flood-affected communities.

While West Tennessee experienced localized flooding and downed trees, the damage in East Tennessee is vast. Damage statistics on state roadways as of midday Sunday, September 29 are as follows:

•             27 state roadway sections closed

•             14 state bridges closed

•             Five state bridges destroyed

While there is no immediate timeframe for full repairs, TDOT’s current priority is ensuring public safety and reconnecting communities that have been severed due to damage. Photos for media of Region 4’s work in East Tennessee are below (please courtesy TDOT).

As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for your destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.

The Move Over Law was passed in 2006. The penalty for violating the law in Tennessee carries the possibility of up to 30 days in jail and a maximum fine of up to $500.

Get the latest construction activity traffic updates from the TDOT SmartWay Map https://smartway.tn.gov/traffic?features=incident,traffic. Travelers can also call 511 for statewide travel information.

R4 in Jefferson City a
R4 in Jefferson City b
R4 loading
R4 strike force
Cumulus Media Knoxville looking to fill a Trailer with Donations for Those Affected by Flooding in East Tennessee
Courtesy of Freepix

Cumulus Media Knoxville looking to fill a Trailer with Donations for Those Affected by Flooding in East Tennessee

September 29, 2024

We are collecting donations for those affected by flooding in East Tennessee with the help of Morristown’s Southern Freight Services, a tractor trailer will be at our station tomorrow (Monday) from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m., they need toiletries, bottled water, and dry goods which will be distributed to those in need.

Meanwhile, they will also have a semi stationed at ProTeam Auctions in White Pine for those who are wanting to make donations, but live closer to that area.

Cumulus Media Knoxville is located at 4711 Old Kingston Pike in Knoxville, TN 37919. Some of our stations will be doing live broadcasts throughout the day. WOKI, Newstalk987, will be live from 6a – noon.

Thank you for listening and for anything you can do to help our neighbors affected by flooding caused by Helene.

TEMA: Duke Energy says Walters Dam has not failed, evacuation notice still in effect – Governor Lee Surveys Storm Damage – Knox County EMA French Broad Flooding
Courtesy of WVLT

TEMA: Duke Energy says Walters Dam has not failed, evacuation notice still in effect – Governor Lee Surveys Storm Damage – Knox County EMA French Broad Flooding

September 28, 2024

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT / WOKI) – On Saturday, the Knox County Emergency Management Agency issued an urgent notice to residents in communities along the French Broad River in East Knox County.

Officials said flooding is anticipated along the river due to more water being released from Douglas Dam.

“The release of water is necessary to maintain the integrity of the dam as water flows downstream from affected areas in Northeast Tennessee,” KEMA said.

As more water is released from Douglas Dam, officials said the French Broad River is projected to rise 2-2.5 feet for the next 2-3 days.

Officials said residents in the affected areas are asked to take the following precautions:

  • Stay informed by monitoring emergency response agencies in the area.
  • Be prepared for potential flooding and possible evacuation.
  • Avoid driving through flooded areas, as it can be difficult to gauge the depth of the water and the condition of the road.

If an evacuation is recommended, officials said emergency response agencies and KEMA will notify the affected communities as quickly as possible.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee surveyed storm damage and met with local officials in upper East Tennessee Saturday afternoon.

Lee was accompanied by Tennessee Emergency Management Agency Director Patrick Sheehan, Senator Marsha Blackburn and other state officials in Blountville.

“There’s a great deal of damage, a great deal of heartache and a great deal of work to be done,” Lee said. “It is heartbreaking to see it. It’s heartening to see the folks come together to start already to reach out to their neighbors and help.

“There’s a lot of work to do, but we’re getting started,” Lee continued. “There is a lot of damage out there and there are bridges out. We’ve seen those. There are roads that are impassable now, so that isolates people for certain.”

“I am heartbroken by the devastating damage in East Tennessee caused by the horrific storm,” Blackburn said. “Thank you to our first responders, Tennessee National Guard, TEMA, and the countless other agencies that have been working around the clock to rescue Tennesseans.”

This comes after heavy rain from Hurricane Helene moved through East Tennessee, including trapping dozens of people on the Unicoi County Hospital roof.

On Saturday, FEMA announced federal disaster assistance was available for state and eligible local governments and certain nonprofit organizations in Cocke, Hawkins and Washington counties.

In Cocke County – The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency is claiming that Walters Dam, otherwise known as Waterville Dam, has not failed. TEMA is citing the dam’s owner, Duke Energy.

It comes just about an hour after Cocke County Mayor Rob Mathis said the dam had suffered a “catastrophic failure.”

“THE WATERVILLE DAM HAS SUFFERED A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE,” Mathis posted to Facebook. “EVACUATION ALL OF DOWNTOWN NEWPORT IMMEDIATELY.”

It’s important to note that both Mathis and TEMA are standing by the evacuation order.

The evacuation notice came as heavy rain brought on by the remnants of Hurricane Helene caused flooding all over Cocke County, especially in areas near the Pigeon River and French Broad River.

According to the United States Geological Survey, both rivers normally sit below five feet. As of 9 p.m., the Pigeon River was sitting at 27.33 feet. As of 9:45 p.m., the French Broad River was sitting at 23.31 feet.

WVLT News reached out to Duke Energy for an update:

Duke Energy currently has all gates open at the Waterville Dam and continues to pass water through the dam. Duke Energy can confirm that both the dam and our floodgates are performing as expected. Hurricane Helene produced historic rainfall over the past 48 hours across much of the Carolinas. We urge people living along our lakes and rivers or in flood-prone areas to use caution, stay informed and follow the directions of state and county emergency management. They should also watch for emergency notification messages on their mobile phones. Duke Energy

As for the dam itself, the Army Corps of Engineers keeps an inventory of dams across the country.

The National Inventory of Dams lists Walters Dam as “high” for potential hazards.

It’s the latest in a series of updates from Mathis about emergency conditions in Cocke County.

“All county and city emergency resources are currently fully engaged in water rescue and evacuation operations,” Mathis said earlier in the day Friday. “We are still several hours from the expected high-water mark. Thank you to all of our emergency responders for their heroic efforts today and in the days to come.”

The situation, not just in Cocke County but across all of Eastern Tennessee, prompted a response from Gov. Bill Lee.

“As Tennessee continues to experience severe weather and flooding from Hurricane Helene, we are monitoring conditions and urge Tennesseans to follow local guidance for key resources, safety information and community updates,” Lee said. “Maria and I continue to pray for all impacted Tennesseans.”

Friday afternoon, Cocke County Sheriff CJ Ball said there have been over 50 rescue attempts in the county with no reported fatalities. Additionally, Ball said a fire truck, a rescue squad truck and seven cruisers with the sheriff’s office have been lost in the flooding.

There is also a shelter open at the Newport Community Center (433 Prospect Ave.) for those living north of Wilton Springs. The Liberty Church in Cosby was designated as the evacuation center for those south of Wilton Springs.

TEMA also provides a list of emergency shelters throughout the state. That’s available here https://www.tn.gov/tema/tennessee-shelters.html.

Mathis has also declared a state of emergency in Cocke County.

As for other dams in East Tennessee, the Tennessee Valley Authority issued a Condition Yellow for the Nolichucky Dam in Greene County out of an abundance of caution.

According to TVA, a Condition Yellow means the dam is approaching its threshold to withstand excessive floodwater. However, officials emphasized that the dam structure has not failed.

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