A rockslide shut down I-40 in both directions near mile marker 450 in Cocke County, Tennessee, on Wednesday afternoon, as announced by TDOT’s Mark Nagi. Drivers were advised to seek alternate routes, with I-40 East redirecting at mile marker 447 and I-40 West at mile marker 7 in North Carolina. Foothills Parkway East was also closed.

Multiple cars were stranded, but no injuries were reported, and all passengers were accounted for and transported to Newport. Emergency crews responded, and the Pigeon River in Hartford was reported elevated, prompting caution downstream. Unlike previous flooding from below, this flooding came from the mountains.

Drivers were able to detour around 8 p.m., but I-40 is expected to remain closed for an extended period. Commercial vehicles were reminded not to use US 441/Newfound Gap Road due to its unsuitable conditions.

TEMA is monitoring but has not been requested to assist.