It's already open.I don’t think Dollywood suffered any damage. Some of the others sure did but not Dollywood.
Interesting you mentioned ham radio. My best friend just got his technician's license, and sent me a coupon to study for mine. I have the requisite Baofeng or two, but this seems like a prime time to study for it. When things like this happen, cellular infrastructure (in the mountains no less) is one of the first things to go.It's hard to fathom what over 30" of rainfall can do in the mountains.
Hard to tell what all has happened, seems a lot of communication is limited to ham radio, but it's sounding like some areas are pretty terrible.
A Facebook post that was sent to me:
The few things here that are open and or have supplies are maxed out and empty.
Roads closed. You can literally cross a bridge and turn around and come back and it’s “closed”. Ask us how we know.
There are no words for the amount of water that was in some places. Or the power it hit with. Jaw droping.
No phone service.
No hotels.
No water
No power.
It took us an entire day to move what should have amounted to 40 miles
Literal towns wiped off the map. All infrastructure gone and will have to be completely rebuilt.
Oh, and as usual. The government can mess up a wet dream. Never have I ever been more terrified of the words “I’m from the government and here to help”. Get your cash. Carry your guns. Be self sufficient. Always.
Thanks for everyone helping support us.