Fires rampage through Gatlinburg

On Nov. 23, a wildfire broke out at Chimney Tops Trail in Tennessee.  It is still unclear whether the fire was started accidentally or by means of arson. The fire only covered 3 acres at the time; however, due to high winds, the hot embers from the fire were spread farther out to Twin Creeks Picnic Pavilion, all the way to Pigeon Forge. The fire was also aggravated by the extremely dry conditions in eastern Gatlinburg, due to the recent drought. At this time, officials have told reporters that 42% of the fire has been put out. The excessive dryness of the area and the high winds in the area has caused the fire to grow to 15,737 acres. There have been 14 confirmed deaths and hundreds of injuries.

During the time when the fire was in full rampage, the town was evacuated. Now, as the fires are being more controlled, people have been able to return back to their houses. Gatlinburg has decided to open up businesses and towns later in the week. There is still a 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew for residents in Gatlinburg. Fifty percent of the buildings surrounding the city were damaged by the fire as well as the smoke from the fire.

Rain did arrive as the firefighters continued to fight the fires. By Nov. 30, there were still eight fires that continued to burn, in addition to a new fire that started in Wiley Oakley area.

This is the largest forest fire ever recorded in Gatlinburg history. However, many government officials and park rangers believe the worst is over.