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UPDATE 11:00 AM - Cherokee Orchard has been temporarily closed due to high winds and downed trees. NPS crews will look to assess and reopen roads as soon as the wind advisory expires this afternoon. Guests with reservations for November 1st should contact our reservations office at 865-429-5704 for guidance.
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UPDATE 10:00 AM - US 441 (Newfound Gap Rd) has been temporarily closed due to high winds and downed trees. Visitors still have access to trails emanating from Cherokee Orchard.
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Significant Weather Advisories are in effect for the East TN region today. Use caution on all Park roads and trails.
*Wind Advisory til 2:00 PM, calling for sustained winds of 15-25 mph and gusts of 45 mph.
*Flood Watch til 8:00 PM, calling for 1-3” of rainfall through this evening. Potential for ponding and swelling creeks.
*Freeze Warning overnight into Friday morning. Expect slick trail conditions along the upper elevations in the morning.
Upon reaching their high around NOON, temperatures are expected to plummet some 45° in the valley. Expect frigid below-freezing temps on the mountain, especially if winds persist. All roads and trails accessing Mt. LeConte are currently open as of 6:30 AM, but strong winds, heavy rain, and freezing temps could invoke temporary closures as the day progresses.
Remember to follow twitter.com/smokiesroadsnps or call 865-436–1200 *2*2 for up to date Park road information.