Severe thunderstorms brought heavy rain to parts of eastern Tennessee on Sunday, resulting in “unprecedented flooding” at Dolly Parton’s theme park, Dollywood. At least one person sustained minor injuries.
Footage captured by visitors showed floodwaters rushing through stores and walkways within the theme park.
Park officials explained that Pigeon Forge police and firefighters assisted in evacuating guests to safety as 5 inches of rain fell within an hour causing the flooding.
“Dollywood is providing support to guests affected by this weather event, and cleanup crews have been dispatched,” park officials stated.
A spokesperson from Dollywood informed Scripps News that they are assisting guests with damaged vehicles on a case-by-case basis.
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The Pigeon Forge Police Department reported on Sunday that McCarter Hollow Road near the entrance to Dollywood had to be closed due to a road collapse caused by the flash flooding.
The park reopened at noon on Monday, and officials assured that tickets dated July 28 would be honored or rain checks would be provided for a future visit.
“Despite the challenging volume of rain for both the park and city infrastructure, the fact that only one minor injury occurred showcases how effectively our staff managed the situation and how well guests followed their instructions,” officials added.
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