January 11th, 2020

Good morning all,

I am currently residing in the dining hall kitchen, listening to the wind whistle. It is 46 degrees at the moment, with fierce winds traveling angrily up the mountain and light rain. Highway 441/Newfound Gap Road is currently closed due to high winds, so Alum Cave and the Boulevard are inaccessible. Also, a "High Wind Warning" has been issued by the National Weather Service all across Eastern Tennessee. The Tennessee side of the park will get hit the hardest, especially in the higher elevations. Damaging wind gusts of 70-80 mph are expected! Downed trees, limbs, and other debris could be scattered along the trail, so proceed with caution. For my own safety, I will not be outside  during this force of nature. Extreme conditions like these are dangerous, but somewhat beautiful...

Yesterday's high temp was 37 degrees, with a low of 27. We have received 0.5" of rain in the past 24 hours, with trace amounts of snow remaining. If you are daring enough to hike the mountain today, wear a good rain jacket and bring some dry socks! Personally, I would advise against it in these conditions. During my journey to Cliff Tops the other day, I saw a large tree getting uprooted by the inhumane winds. Don't underestimate the power of Mother Nature...

01/11/2020

"I woke up to an assuring 6:30 alarm, a day of rest made getting out of bed a piece of cake. Sounds of harsh winds and rain resonated from the window, so I dressed accordingly. These conditions were inhospitable, at least the kitchen was only 30 paces away! I twisted the door knob ever so slightly, and the wind threw the door open. Howling wind made the commute a little difficult, but oddly fascinating. In my time here, I've come to respect the men that built these cabins. These sturdy pieces of history have withstood torrential downpours, high winds, hurricanes, and thieving squirrels. I'm thankful for their hard work and craftsmanship, I wouldn't be here without them..."

-Kemp