Dollywood, the popular theme park in East Tennessee, experienced significant flooding following a series of thunderstorms. The park was temporarily closed but is expected to reopen soon. Cleanup efforts are underway, and the park is assisting guests affected by the flood, including those whose vehicles were damaged.
Dollywood, the renowned theme park owned by Dolly Parton, faced a severe weather challenge as flash floods struck following intense thunderstorms. The park, located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, saw torrential rains that led to ankle-deep water in some areas, causing disruptions and a temporary closure. The park is set to reopen, showcasing the resilience and rapid response of the staff and local emergency services.
On a stormy Sunday, Dollywood was engulfed by heavy rains that caused flash floods throughout the park. Guests were evacuated safely, thanks to the swift actions of park staff and local emergency services. The floodwaters rose quickly, leaving some areas submerged and causing a road collapse at the park's entrance. Cleanup crews worked overnight to manage the aftermath, aiming to reopen the park promptly by noon the following day.
Dollywood's management and local authorities responded effectively to the crisis. The park's vice president of marketing highlighted the unusual nature of the storm, describing it as a '100-year flood.' Despite the severity, the park's emergency operations plan was executed well, preventing severe injuries and facilitating a quick cleanup. The park also provided support to guests whose vehicles were damaged, ensuring they were not left stranded.
As Dollywood prepares to reopen, the park is assessing its response to the flood to improve future emergency handling. The park's commitment to safety and guest experience remains steadfast, with plans to honor previously purchased tickets. This event has tested the resilience of the park's infrastructure and emergency plans, providing valuable insights for handling possible future incidents.
Despite the challenges posed by the flash floods, Dollywood's quick and effective response underscored the theme park's preparedness for emergency situations. As the park gears up to welcome guests again, the focus remains on ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
"That's a 100 year flood and an act of God. The infrastructure here and in the city of Pigeon Forge had no way to be able to handle that much water in that short of time." - Pete Owens, Vice President of Marketing at Dollywood