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.
Much of Tennessee is open for business, including the cities of Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City, Chattanooga, Gatlinburg, Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Middle Tennessee and West Tennessee.
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
State officials advise many roads and bridges in the northern part of East Tennessee have been compromised and should be considered potentially hazardous. Motorists should avoid traveling in these areas unless seeking higher ground.
It is important to adhere to all road closure signage and barricades, and never attempt to drive through standing water.
Interstate 40 and Interstate 26 are closed in both directions at the Tennessee/North Carolina border.
o I-40 is closed both directions from mile marker 440 in Tennessee (Cocke County) until mile marker 3 in North Carolina.
o I-26 is closed both directions from mile marker 39 in Erwin, Tennessee (Unicoi County) to the North Carolina line.
Several roads throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are closed. For the latest updates, please visit NPS.gov.
For the most up-to-date information on Tennessee roads, visit Tennessee Department of Transportation's SmartWay website.
Tennessee Welcome Centers
Tennessee Welcome Centers in Hartford is closed.
Tennessee State Parks
Four Tennessee State Parks are closed: Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in Elizabethton, Roan Mountain State Park in Roan Mountain, Rocky Fork State Park in Flag Pond and David Crockett Birthplace State Park in Limestone.
Please visit www.tnstateparks.com for updates on reopening and access.
