We are in the thick of it now! These last few hours before sunrise have seen the storm’s highest intensity as it relates to wind and rain thus far. Although the rainfall itself hasn’t been constant or heavy yet, its occasional pitter-patter is comforting enough in getting things wet. The winds are certainly rolling through as advertised, with speeds and sounds consistent with hurricane strength. The forecast has recently elevated possible max wind gusts to 100mph over the mountain! If the lodge were sitting on an airport tarmac with the constant hum of jet engines overhead, that would best describe our current predicament. The Red Flag Warning is set to expire at noon today, while the High Wind Warning will drag on into the afternoon. It will be several more hours yet before these raging winds ease off at our elevation. Rain is expected to last all day and linger into tomorrow. The possibility of snow showers come Wednesday remains. Temps are reading in the mid 30s to lower 40s today, but the windchills will have it feeling significant colder across the board.
Reminder that we are essentially closed today to any new guests or day visitors. Due to the extreme weather conditions and (now dissipating) fire threat, numerous GSMNP roads and facilities are closed until further notice, which includes all those accessing Mt. LeConte’s base. Lodge guests who made the climb yesterday and stayed with us have the option of sheltering in place another night, or hiking back down at their own risk. There are still several unknowns and risks as it relates to trail or road conditions at this time, or how quickly the NPS will be able to safely assess and attempt to reopen areas of the park. Hopefully by Wednesday morning, if not tonight, conditions have improved enough that travelers can more safely and effectively enter and exit the park. By that point, we will be officially closed for the winter anyways, and visitor services at the lodge will not resume until March 2024.
We will provide updates or new instruction from the NPS as we receive it. Stay safe and have a great day.
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