Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN, August 3, 2025
News Summary
A landslide has caused the closure of U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park due to heavy rainfall. The closure is expected to last until further notice as the National Park Service assesses the damage and plans to partially reopen the North Carolina side next week. The incident also led to power outages and significant travel disruptions in the region.
Landslide Closes U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park Following Heavy Rainfall
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN – A landslide has closed U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park until further notice following heavy rainfall that affected the region. The National Park Service (NPS) announced the closure around 2 p.m. on Saturday.
The landslide was reported late Friday and is located between mile markers 12 and 13 on the Tennessee side of the park, south of the Alum Cave trailhead. Heavy rain caused Walker Camp Prong to swell and undermine a section of the roadway. Rangers are currently assessing the damage’s impact in collaboration with officials from the Federal Highway Administration to determine the structural integrity of the affected area.
The landslide covers approximately 100 feet and has undercut nearly the entire width of the southbound lane, making it unsafe for travel. The NPS advises travelers looking to cross between North Carolina and Tennessee to use Interstate 40 as an alternative route during the closure.
Reopening Plans
The Park Service has announced intentions to partially reopen U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road on the North Carolina side from Oconaluftee to Newfound Gap early next week. This reopening will allow access to Kuwohi, formerly known as Clingmans Dome, a sacred site for the Cherokee Indian tribe. Kuwohi represents the highest point in Tennessee and Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 6,643 feet and is the third highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
Impact of Heavy Rainfall
This landslide was triggered by intense storms that affected the mountains and North Carolina on Friday night. Tragically, during the inclement weather, a separate two-car collision on Interstate 40 in Catawba County claimed the life of a 22-year-old woman, Gabriella Elise Cruz.
In addition to the road closures and tragic accidents, the storm’s impact extended to power outages. At least 18,000 Duke Energy customers in the Charlotte area and a total of 23,500 customers statewide experienced power interruptions. Moreover, over 537 flights faced delays at Charlotte Douglas International Airport due to adverse weather conditions.
This story is ongoing, and updates will be made available as further developments unfold regarding the landslide and the associated impact of the storm on the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the landslide on U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road?
Heavy rainfall led to the swelling of Walker Camp Prong, undermining a section of the roadway and resulting in the landslide.
When was the landslide reported?
The landslide was reported late Friday, and the road was officially closed by NPS rangers at 2 p.m. on Saturday.
What is the current status of U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road?
The road is closed until further notice, with plans to partially reopen the North Carolina side early next week.
Is there an alternative route for travelers?
Yes, travelers are advised to use Interstate 40 as an alternative route while U.S. 441 is closed.
Key Features of the Landslide Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN |
| Reported Time | Late Friday, closure announced Saturday at 2 p.m. |
| Landslide Area | Approximately 100 feet, southbound lane compromised |
| Reopening Plans | Partial reopening of North Carolina side early next week |
| Alternative Route | Interstate 40 |
| Impact on Travelers | Road closed, significant flight delays, power outages |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer
- Fox Weather
- WRAL
- Google Search: Landslide Great Smoky Mountains
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Landslide
Author: HERE Charlotte
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