Tennessee - Severe weather on July 28 brought heavy rains that caused significant flooding at Dollywood, the famed amusement park owned by country music legend Dolly Parton.
The torrential downpour led to a flash flood warning issued by the National Weather Service for Sevier County, creating hazardous conditions throughout the area.
Park visitors and employees witnessed waist-deep water inundating various sections of Dollywood.
Videos and photos circulating on social media showed submerged cars and flooded shops, creating an atmosphere of chaos and concern.
The Pigeon Forge Police Department reported that several roads leading to the park were temporarily closed due to the rising waters.
Dollywood officials confirmed that one person sustained a minor injury during the flooding incident.
Emergency responders, including the Pigeon Forge Police and Fire Departments, worked swiftly to direct guests to safety and manage the situation.
The park was closed for the remainder of the day to ensure the safety of visitors and staff.
“We experienced a significant flash flood event this afternoon,” a Dollywood spokesperson said. “Our priority is the safety of our guests and employees, and we are grateful for the prompt assistance from local emergency services.”
Cleanup operations are already underway, with park staff working diligently to address the damage caused by the floodwaters.
Despite the disruption, Dollywood plans to reopen on July 29, with park officials expressing confidence that the situation will be under control by then.
This isn’t the first time Dollywood has faced such challenges. In 2018, heavy rains also caused significant flooding in the park.
Visitors at the time experienced similar conditions, with water rushing through the park, making some areas resemble rivers.
Despite the adverse weather, Dollywood demonstrated resilience, continuing operations with minimal downtime.
Flooding is not uncommon in the Sevier County area, particularly during heavy rains.
The region’s topography, characterized by its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains, can contribute to rapid water accumulation and flash floods.
Dollywood’s management and local emergency services have protocols in place to handle such incidents, ensuring the safety of visitors and minimizing disruptions.
The park has continued to operate effectively despite these challenges, often reopening quickly after flood events.
Local authorities continue to monitor weather conditions as additional storms are forecasted in the coming days.
Residents and visitors are advised to stay alert and follow updates from the National Weather Service.
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