Interstate 40 remains closed near the North Carolina-Tennessee state line due to a rockslide and flooding that occurred on Wednesday (June 18). The closure affects both directions of the highway just east of Exit 451 (Waterville Road) in Cocke County, Tennessee. Mark Nagi from the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) reported that the road is covered with muddy water and debris, and there is no set timeline for reopening.
Geotechnical engineers responded to the scene around 6:30 p.m. to remove barrier rails, allowing trapped vehicles to turn around. TDOT is working to assess the damage and determine when the highway can safely reopen.
Drivers are advised to follow detour routes. Eastbound travelers from Tennessee should exit at Harford Road (Exit 447) and take I-81 North to I-26 East. For those traveling west from North Carolina, I-40 is closed between Exit 20 and the Tennessee state line. The suggested detour involves taking Exit 53B (I-240 West) to I-26 West, then I-81 South to rejoin I-40 in Tennessee.
The National Park Service has reminded commercial drivers that they are prohibited from using US 441/Newfound Gap Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park due to its narrow lanes and steep grades.