The Southeastern U.S., including many Tennessee communities, were devastated as Hurricane Helene made landfall on Friday, Sept. 27, 2024. We are deeply saddened about the loss of lives and livelihoods, and stand with our partners across Tennessee as we begin the difficult work of recovery.
Tennessee is open for business and our attractions are at full operation in most areas, including the cities of Chattanooga, Gatlinburg, Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville.
The middle and western portions of the state, including Nashville and Memphis, remain open for business as usual.
The business districts of Johnson City, Kingsport and Bristol were not impacted and are open for business.
Often travel plays an important role in helping communities get back on their feet. If you are unsure of whether the Tennessee area you are visiting was impacted, please reach out to local officials or your travel booking agents before cancelling your trip.
If you are concerned about your upcoming travel plans, message us on @TNVacation or email our offices directly at TN.tourism@TN.gov.
For updated emergency information across Tennessee, visit TEMA’s recovery website.
Tennessee Travel Updates
The following will be updated as more information is made available. Check this page often for travel updates.
Road Travel in Tennessee
Many roads between East Tennessee and Western North Carolina remain closed due to damage sustained during Hurricane Helene. All thru traffic should avoid this area.
It is important to adhere to all road closure signage and barricades, and never attempt to drive through standing water.
For the most up-to-date information on Tennessee roads, visit Tennessee Department of Transportation's SmartWay website or follow @myTDOT on X.
Interstates I-81, I-75 and I-65 were not impacted and are open for travel.
Interstate 40 and Interstate 26 are closed in both directions at the Tennessee/North Carolina border. You cannot get to Tennessee from North Carolina via I-40 or I-26.
o Northern Detour: Thru traffic heading from Tennessee into North Carolina should follow I-81 North to Virginia and take I-77 South to North Carolina.
o Southern Detour: Thru traffic heading from Tennessee into South Carolina should follow I-75 South to I-285 East through Atlanta; then North on I-85 to South Carolina.
For more detailed information on road closures and detours, visit TDOT's Hurricane Helene Recovery page.
Many roads throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park have reopened, including US 441/Newfound Gap Road from Gatlinburg to Cherokee, NC. For the latest updates, please visit NPS.gov.
US 129 "The Dragon" between US 411 and NC state line remains under restrictions for commercial vehicle traffic. No trucks with trailers over 30 feet in length, or single units over 30 feet in length are permitted on this route.
Tennessee Welcome Centers
The Tennessee Welcome Centers in Hartford/Cocke County on I-40 and Erwin/Unicoi County on I-26 are closed.
Tennessee State Parks
Tennessee State Parks have been working diligently to reopen 3 of the 4 impacted state parks in the Northeastern corner of Tennessee. David Crockett Birthplace State Park in Limestone remains closed.
Please visit www.tnstateparks.com for updates on reopening and access.
Additional Travel Resources
Gatlinburg
• Gatlinburg.com alternative routes
• Gatlinburg.com how you can help
Pigeon Forge
• Travel alerts and alternative routes
