Throughout the afternoon and evening on November 28, 2016, a complex of wildfires, including the Chimney Tops 2 fire, developed and spread throughout Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, in Sevier County, Tennessee. Winds as high as 87 mph knocked down trees, which in turn started fires when they hit power lines. This also caused pumping stations to lose power, quickly drying up hydrants. Extreme drought conditions also contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Residents and visitors alike were forced to evacuate Gatlinburg as firefighters from Sevier County and surrounding areas fought the blaze. The county’s 911 system was overloaded and eventually lost power causing significant communications issues between firefighters, officials, and the public. The fire ultimately consumed 15,737 acres, destroyed 2,500 structures, and killed 14 people.

The National Park Service, along with other land management agencies, as well as state and local governments all worked together to take action to prevent a similar tragedy. Steps included upgrading radio communications, implementing the goals of the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy, and assembling a Management Action Team of fire and leadership experts to take action at all levels of government.