Since 11 a.m. on Wednesday, fires in Gatlinburg, Tennessee have forced 14,000 people to evacuate and have left at least three people dead, 14 injured and many more unaccounted for. Tourists and residents were forced to evacuate with little warning, leaving behind their homes and belongings.
Due to the dry conditions in the area, wildfires have been a common threat for several weeks. On Monday, fires in Tennessee spread from the Great Smoky Mountains to the popular tourist towns, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. At the time that the fires began, Tennessee was in a severe drought. With gusts of wind reaching as much as 60 mph and little to no rain in the areas, the fires have spread at a rapid pace.
If Tennessee does not see rain soon, it could be potentially their worst droughts in decades. The harsh conditions made it nearly impossible for firefighters to control the spread of the fires.
After battling fires for more than 24 hours, officials are beginning to assess the damages. At this time, more than 200 buildings have been destroyed. Dolly Parton’s theme park, Dollywood, is still intact and is providing housing for firefighters and first responders.
There are many people currently staying in shelters unable to return to their homes. Families are left devastated after losing their homes and still searching for missing loved ones.
The Red Cross and shelters in Tennessee are currently in need of donations.
by Kristen Feraci
