This situation is not getting as much media attention as it deserves. Thousands of people have already been evacuated and more are expected to do the same.
From CNN:
Wildfires blaze in Gatlinburg, TN; thousands evacuated
Gatlinburg, Tennessee (CNN)Fanned by strong winds and the Southeast’s worst drought in nearly a decade, at least 14 wildfires burned in and around Gatlinburg, Tennessee, forcing evacuations from the popular tourist destination and nearby communities.
“If you’re a person of prayer, we could use your prayers,” Gatlinburg Fire Chief Greg Miller said Monday evening as crews battled wind gusts of up to 70 mph.
Thick smoke looms in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, on Monday November 28.
On Monday afternoon, a wildfire from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park spread rapidly into nearby communities. Strong gusts scattered embers across long distances, starting fires that fed off drought-stricken trees. The winds also knocked down power lines, igniting new fires, according to authorities.
“Everything was like a perfect storm,” said Cassius Cash, superintendent of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to CNN affiliate WATE.
Mandatory evacuations are underway for #Gatlinburg and portions of #PigeonForge. #MRXwx #TNwx pic.twitter.com/qVCCTwwRyP
— NWS Morristown (@NWSMorristown) November 29, 2016
One man shot a video as he escaped in his car. This is amazing:
If there are any readers in that area, please stay safe!
Prayers from others couldn’t hurt.
