The city of Gatlinburg has been ordered by the Gatlinburg Fire Department to evacuate following the rapid spread of wild fires across the city. Fire and smoke have covered the city of Gatlinburg and the Great Smokey Mountains, and videos have shown the flames following people out of the city. High winds and a small amount of rain have only made the fires worse, and several fallen power lines have sparked smaller fires. Over 100 homes and facilities have been destroyed by the fire, and tourists are devastated by the destruction brought to one of our favorite southern towns.

Gatlinburg is a popular tourist destination, especially for the residents of Gaffney. Many students and teachers are heartbroken by the destruction occurring in Gatlinburg.

Vanessa Miles, drama teacher at GHS, said that this should be a warning that we shouldn’t bring animals out of their natural habitat, and into places that could potentially be destroyed.

Megan Phillips, a senior, said that she is “very upset because Gatlinburg is [her] favorite place to be. Gatlinburg is [her] family’s home away from home and if that’s destroyed [her] family will be devastated.”

“I have been so worried about the National Forest, especially since the other fires have done so much damage to our forests already,” said Kristie Camp, GHS English teacher.

“Dollywood, man…” said Cass Cassillas, GHS senior.

Gatlinburg holds many memories for families in Gaffney, and we are praying for rain and recovery. #PrayForGatlinburg