March 30, 2022

US 441 (Newfound Gap Rd) closed at 8:00 AM this morning. We anticipate Cherokee Orchard Rd to close shortly. Temps in the lower 50s currently. Sustained winds at Cliff Tops of 25-35mph. A few gusts recorded between 40-50mph. Continuing to get stronger with each passing hour.

Please be safe out there today. Thank you to all those firefighters and first responders taking action in these conditions. Rains are expected to arrive late this evening.

We’ve “wind-erized” the lodge in anticipation of the strong winds forecast for the mountain this evening, upwards of 90mph possible. Loose tree limbs and debris can easily become rocket-paced projectiles in such conditions.

The Thomas Divide Complex Fire that has been occurring the past few days to our south has not produced a visible smoke plume in more than 24 hours now. Kudos to the numerous teams working hard to keep that fire under control.

Although it poses no threat to Mt. LeConte, we are also monitoring the fire currently happening in the Wears Valley area to our northwest.