A portion of Interstate 40 near the North Carolina–Tennessee line remains closed following a rockslide and flooding that occurred on Wednesday, June 18. The affected area includes mile marker 450 in Tennessee’s Cocke County and extends to Exit 20 on the North Carolina side, stopping all traffic in both directions.
According to Mark Nagi, the Regional Communications Officer for the Tennessee Department of Transportation, crews are working to get the affected portion of the road reopened “on or before July 3.”
This closure follows earlier damage from Hurricane Helene in late September 2024, when floodwaters in the Pigeon River Gorge washed away portions of the highway. The route reopened in March with one narrow lane in each direction, separated by a high concrete barrier.
Detours are in place for both directions of travel. Westbound traffic is being rerouted via I‑26 and I‑81 through Asheville and Johnson City, while eastbound traffic uses the reverse route. Commercial vehicles are prohibited from using park roads and are advised to adhere to state DOT detours.
Timeline and Restoration Plans
– June 18: Rockslide and flooding shut down I‑40 at mile marker 450.
– June 19: TDOT confirms the closure and mobilizes geotechnical and engineering teams.
– On or before July 3: Crews expect to reopen the affected portion of I‑40.
– Late 2025–2026 and beyond: Long‑term stabilization and permanent repairs, including bedrock anchoring and slope stabilization, are anticipated to continue for an extended period.
Drivers are encouraged to plan for delays and use the designated detours until the work is completed.
