Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge being evacuated

[Lyle]

Apparently Gatlinburg's downtown has a mandatory evacuation order in effect.

"Employees from the Elkmont and Park Headquarters area were evacuated. Officials closed the Gatlinburg Bypass and Little River Road from Sugarlands Visitor Center to Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area."

""The mountain headed up to LeConte is a blaze," Allyson Virden said. "We drove to the top of our hill and we were blown away with the fire that is spreading up Mt. LeConte. My heart is breaking ... Chris and I are about to pack up and head out. It breaks my heart to think of all the people in harm's way and the historic buildings that are in danger. Please pray for our community and beloved Smokies."

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/n...burg/94580940/