Severe Flooding and Rock Slides Cause Major Closures on I-40 in the Smoky Mountains: What Travelers Need to Know

HARTFORD, Tenn. — Heavy rain and flooding have shut down a section of Interstate 40 in the Great Smoky Mountains. This road, critical for cross-country travel, is expected to remain closed for at least two weeks.

The flooding and a rock slide occurred around mile marker 450, near the North Carolina state line. Engineers discovered more damage than they anticipated. Tennessee Representative Jeremy Faison shared on social media that several areas are still flooded, and the stability of nearby slopes is under assessment by geotechnical engineers.

Officials estimate it will take a couple of weeks to drain the water and ensure the slopes are secure before repairs can start. The affected stretch of I-40 has suffered from flooding in the past, notably after Hurricane Helene caused significant damage in late September. Following that event, crews managed to reopen a narrow lane in each direction by March, but more comprehensive repairs are needed.

The area received about 2.5 to 3.5 inches of rain in just three hours, according to the National Weather Service. For long-term stability, the road will require steel rods to be drilled into the bedrock, along with concrete sprayed to reinforce the cliffs. This extensive work is expected to take years.

For drivers, a detour is necessary. Those traveling east on I-40 will need to take Interstate 26 at Asheville, North Carolina, continue to Johnson City, Tennessee, and then head south on Interstate 81 to reconnect with I-40.

Traffic disruptions are challenging, especially for trucks, which are often banned on other roads nearby due to their narrow paths. As the situation evolves, local residents and travelers are expressing their concerns and sharing experiences on social media, highlighting the impact of these closures on daily life and logistics.



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North Carolina, Tennessee, General news, NC State Wire, TN State Wire, Hurricane Helene, Climate and environment, Hurricanes and typhoons, U.S. news, Jeremy Faison, Climate