A powerful thunderstorm dumped 3-5 inches of rain over a 2-hour period in the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee area, leading to severe flash flooding at Dollywood amusement park owned by Dolly Parton.
The flooding caused road closures and a road collapse around Dollywood's entrance. Videos show walkways submerged and visitors wading through ankle-deep and waist-deep waters. Vehicles were trapped in the parking lot.
At least one minor injury was reported, and many guests had damaged property. Dollywood workers, assisted by local authorities, directed guests to safety, though some visitors complained about lack of help.
Dollywood management confirmed the flooding, stating cleanup crews were deployed and support provided to affected guests. The park was scheduled to reopen on Monday at noon, though more wet weather was expected.
Heavy rains and thunderstorms continued to impact East Tennessee, with localized flooding and the possibility of severe storms forecast throughout the week.
Dollywood sees over 2 million visitors annually. The amusement park was opened in 1961 as Rebel Railroad before Dolly Parton became a co-owner. It is Tennessee's most visited-ticketed tourist attraction.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq
Sources: New York Times, Newsweek, USA Today, Independent, New York Post, Yahoo, Head Topics, Hoodline, Mirror, Outlook India, Irish Star, Travel Mole, 3B Media News, Knox News, Inside the Magic, Fox Weather.