Wildfires advanced into Gatlinburg Tennessee yesterday evening and overnight, setting the downtown area ablaze and destroying some of the tourist attractions in Gatlinburg proper and adjoining cities. Thousands have been forced to evacuate, and while rain didi come through overnight, it was hardly enough to positively impact the situation.
Horrible situation and I am saddened to see one of my favorite areas in the South burning. . .
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/11/29/tennessee-wildfires-gatlinburg/94591254/ (http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/11/29/tennessee-wildfires-gatlinburg/94591254/)
Go back to sleep folks, nothing to see here. "The concept of global warming was created by and for the Chinese in order to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive." - Donald J. Trump
Quote from: Exterminator on November 29, 2016, 08:48:10 AM
Go back to sleep folks, nothing to see here. "The concept of global warming was created by and for the Chinese in order to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive." - Donald J. Trump
Dude! Get out of my head! :biggrin:
Quote from: Palehorse on November 29, 2016, 08:30:52 AM
Wildfires advanced into Gatlinburg Tennessee yesterday evening and overnight, setting the downtown area ablaze and destroying some of the tourist attractions in Gatlinburg proper and adjoining cities. Thousands have been forced to evacuate, and while rain didi come through overnight, it was hardly enough to positively impact the situation.
Horrible situation and I am saddened to see one of my favorite areas in the South burning. . .
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/11/29/tennessee-wildfires-gatlinburg/94591254/ (http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/11/29/tennessee-wildfires-gatlinburg/94591254/)
One of the fires is within 20 mi of my daughter. I feel so sad for those people in Gattlinburg.
Some of the pictures that are showing up on my Facebook feed are just heartbreaking.
Yes, they are. :'(
Apparently the whole upper area of the Ober Gatlinburg tram and ski area has been destroyed. I rode that tram many times as a child on visits to Gatlinburg.
The Chapel has been destroyed too and I believe Ripley's and the place where the animals were, I forget what they called it but it wasn't called a zoo.
There are links to numerous webcams in the Gatlinburg area available here:
http://gatlinburg.gsmvro.com/gatlinburg-webcams/
The Ober Gatlinburg cam hasn't refreshed since around 9pm last night. However, the latest image is still there and the orange glow of a fire can be seen off in the distance. :spooked:
Here is a live link my daughter sent me last night. Hope it works for you. Watching it now and it is updated.
http://www.local8now.com/livestream
Thanks for that. Seeing the devastation in the daytime is awful.
Quote from: Locutus on November 29, 2016, 02:49:58 PM
Thanks for that. Seeing the devastation in the daytime is awful.
You're welcome. Glad it worked for you.
Quote from: Locutus on November 29, 2016, 02:18:39 PM
There are links to numerous webcams in the Gatlinburg area available here:
http://gatlinburg.gsmvro.com/gatlinburg-webcams/
A lot of these webcams are offline either due to the fires or other reasons. The ones that are functional look to be in areas away from the fires. No smoke is even visible anywhere.
Quote from: me on November 29, 2016, 02:06:25 PM
The Chapel has been destroyed too and I believe Ripley's and the place where the animals were, I forget what they called it but it wasn't called a zoo.
Ripley's Aquarium...they're reporting all of the animals made it.
Quote from: Exterminator on November 29, 2016, 03:16:06 PM
Ripley's Aquarium...they're reporting all of the animals made it.
Yes, I heard that as well. Apparently there are biologists onsite tending to the animals despite the fact that almost the entire town has been evacuated.
Route 441 from Pigeon Forge into Gatlinburg has been completely shut down.
My wife and I were married in Gatlinburg. . . Rode ski lift/tram and spent a lot of time there. Loved the Aquarium and hopefully they will rebuild/repair it.
This is heartbreaking to say the least. We were planning on a return there next summer but I guess that is out. A ton of the cabins out there have been destroyed for sure; including the one we spent our honeymoon in. :-[
As heartbreaking as this is we should all be paying attention to what is happening there right now, because it can and will happen here one day unless we do something to prevent it. Global warming is real people. Soon you too will be frying like eggs in a hot skillet. :spooked:
This isn't the first forest fire they've had, but it certainly is becoming more frequent. The fires in KY are all around our farm out there, and my siblings that live in the state.
Sad that your honeymoon cabin was destroyed.
Quote from: Locutus on November 29, 2016, 04:05:26 PM
Sad that your honeymoon cabin was destroyed.
It is, but worse are all the homes and businesses that were burned up as well. I heard the Mayor state that half the city is just gone. . . :'(
That sucks.
I always thought Gatlinburg proper was nothing more than a tourist trap, but it didn't stop me from going there from time to time to enjoy the town.
It'll take awhile to rebuild.
Quote from: Locutus on November 29, 2016, 05:22:40 PM
That sucks.
I always thought Gatlinburg proper was nothing more than a tourist trap, but it didn't stop me from going there from time to time to enjoy the town.
It'll take awhile to rebuild.
It is one hell of a time to have a fire down there. :no: I'll bet there is 2 feet of dry leaves on the ground just wanting to catch fire. :flame: :fire: :flame: :fire: :flame: :fire: :flame: :flame: :flame: :groan:
Quote from: The Troll on November 29, 2016, 06:30:48 PM
It is one hell of a time to have a fire down there. :no: I'll bet there is 2 feet of dry leaves on the ground just wanting to catch fire. :flame: :fire: :flame: :fire: :flame: :fire: :flame: :flame: :flame: :groan:
Yep!
Major drought conditions across large swaths of the southeastern United States.
(http://i2.kym-cdn.com/entries/icons/facebook/000/015/676/Smokey_Bear.jpg)
Several people reported missing, (at least 6 that I am aware of), and 3 confirmed deaths due to this fire. :eek:
Quote from: Exterminator on November 29, 2016, 03:16:06 PM
Ripley's Aquarium...they're reporting all of the animals made it.
Glad to hear it.
There has been an arrest.
East TN man arrested for setting early November wildfires
http://www.knoxnews.com/story/news/local/2016/11/11/burning-banned-wildfires-continue/93643598/
Quote from: me on November 29, 2016, 09:57:15 PM
There has been an arrest.
East TN man arrested for setting early November wildfires
http://www.knoxnews.com/story/news/local/2016/11/11/burning-banned-wildfires-continue/93643598/
This is not about the current fires as that news article is dated 11/11. :razz:
Along these lines though, CNN just reported that the fires were definitely human in origin. They didn't say whether it was an accidental or purposeful act.
Quote from: Locutus on November 30, 2016, 09:41:20 AM
This is not about the current fires as that news article is dated 11/11. :razz:
Along these lines though, CNN just reported that the fires were definitely human in origin. They didn't say whether it was an accidental or purposeful act.
Hey, better late than never though.... :razz:
The Alamo Restaurant, where my wife and I held our reception dinner, is gone. :'(
Quote from: Palehorse on November 30, 2016, 11:10:35 AM
The Alamo Restaurant, where my wife and I held our reception dinner, is gone. :'(
I've eaten there before myself.
(https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/0a/43/bf/fc/alamo-restaurant-gatlinburg.jpg)
This video is from the Park Vista hotel on the hill overlooking Gatlinburg. Look at the flames outside the lobby window and the people in the lobby with their masks. :spooked: :spooked:
https://www.youtube.com/v/W1enWie239o
That would be so frightening. From what I understand they couldn't get out and had no choice but to stay there.
Yup!
They were evacuated at some point after the video was shot according to the Park Vista's Facebook page.
That was a nice hotel. Hopefully they can restore it. I've spent a few nights there.
(https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/02/b6/44/b6/park-vista-doubletree.jpg)
I haven't been there since the late 70's and stayed at a friends aunt's house who lived not far from there a lot of these hotels and businesses weren't there at that time. The only place I really remember is the Ripley museum, I found that fascinating, but don't remember there being an acquarium at that time. I know we spent a whole day there and still didn't get to see, or do, everything we wanted to. We both had hubby's and kids at home so couldn't really stay as long as we wanted.
It's not a bad area. Lots of natural beauty around, but like I said before, Gatlinburg proper is a tourist trap. ;D
Quote from: Locutus on November 30, 2016, 01:09:19 PM
I've eaten there before myself.
(https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/0a/43/bf/fc/alamo-restaurant-gatlinburg.jpg)
Here's what is left of it. . . :'(
(http://i475.photobucket.com/albums/rr111/hlovett_2008/15203158_1169541309749660_8911444641798436148_n_zpsyzshkmcp.jpg) (http://s475.photobucket.com/user/hlovett_2008/media/15203158_1169541309749660_8911444641798436148_n_zpsyzshkmcp.jpg.html)
:eek:
Holy hell!! It's completely destroyed.
That place was on the lower end of the Parkway as you head toward Pigeon Forge, wasn't it?
Quote from: Locutus on November 30, 2016, 02:04:11 PM
:eek:
Holy hell!! It's completely destroyed.
That place was on the lower end of the Parkway as you head toward Pigeon Forge, wasn't it?
If I recall correctly it was indeed. I am bummed by this for sentimental reasons, but even more concerned for all of the loss of homes and businesses. Gatlinburg may have indeed been a tourist trap of sorts, but it had some true value to the people of the area and the economy. A LOT of them are going to be out of work for an extended amount of time now because of this, and right at the holidays. That is horrible.
Some of its charm was within the older structures; there is a restaurant east of the main drag and up in the mountain. It was an old "mansion" converted into a restaurant. My wife and I ate there a time or two. I wonder if it made it or not? It had a unique ambiance that my wife and I enjoyed.
It also is a family oriented type of tourist trap, and while it was kind of predictable it held a charm of its own.
My wife and I always split our time down there between Pigeon Forge, Maryville, the national park, and left Gatlinburg for our last day there. The national park is where the lions share of our time is always spent, but it is/was nice to be able to go back to a nice cabin and relax too. . .
Here's a view from our cabin when we were there in 2010, 6 years ago. (That isn't smoke but clouds of fog).
(http://i475.photobucket.com/albums/rr111/hlovett_2008/62917_150027958367672_7543486_n_zpsrlv2dtz2.jpg) (http://s475.photobucket.com/user/hlovett_2008/media/62917_150027958367672_7543486_n_zpsrlv2dtz2.jpg.html)
Was the restaurant you're talking about the Old Heidelberg Castle? They had German fare obviously. ;D
Quote from: Locutus on November 30, 2016, 02:23:38 PM
Was the restaurant you're talking about the Old Heidelberg Castle? They had German fare obviously. ;D
YES! That is it! :yes:
Is it still there?
Quote from: Palehorse on November 30, 2016, 02:24:35 PM
YES! That is it! :yes:
Is it still there?
According to Yelp, they closed down a few years ago.
Quote from: Locutus on November 30, 2016, 02:26:42 PM
According to Yelp, they closed down a few years ago.
Damn. So I guess it doesn't matter if it is there or not. . .
Just looked at the address on Google maps and it looks like there's an empty lot there now with a sign stating that something is opening at the location in spring of 2017.
Link to image (https://www.google.com/maps/place/605+Historic+Nature+Trail,+Gatlinburg,+TN+37738/@35.7033819,-83.516189,3a,75y,52.06h,89.49t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sp70etQIcuYl8u7rkI2C22A!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo3.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3Dp70etQIcuYl8u7rkI2C22A%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D26.714447%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i13312!8i6656!4m5!3m4!1s0x885955d190e98ee3:0x9d0a65078dc8383f!8m2!3d35.703563!4d-83.515789)
Quote from: Locutus on November 30, 2016, 02:44:37 PM
Just looked at the address on Google maps and it looks like there's an empty lot there now with a sign stating that something is opening at the location in spring of 2017.
Link to image (https://www.google.com/maps/place/605+Historic+Nature+Trail,+Gatlinburg,+TN+37738/@35.7033819,-83.516189,3a,75y,52.06h,89.49t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sp70etQIcuYl8u7rkI2C22A!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo3.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3Dp70etQIcuYl8u7rkI2C22A%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D26.714447%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i13312!8i6656!4m5!3m4!1s0x885955d190e98ee3:0x9d0a65078dc8383f!8m2!3d35.703563!4d-83.515789)
Damn. They tore the joint down! :'(
Now it will be a business. . . "Hospitality Solutions". . .
Well, that's progress for yah. :roll eyes: Man there's a lot of shit around there that I don't recall seeing before! :spooked:
4th fatality discovered in the remnants of one of the destroyed hotels. . .
Quote from: Palehorse on November 30, 2016, 03:32:03 PM
Damn. They tore the joint down! :'(
Now it will be a business. . . "Hospitality Solutions". . .
Well, that's progress for yah. :roll eyes: Man there's a lot of shit around there that I don't recall seeing before! :spooked:
Yeah, that area has changed a lot over the years. I used to go there a lot growing up. We were there once or twice every year, but I haven't been there in a long time. Last visit was in 2003 if I recall correctly. I'm sure it has changed even more in the last 13 years and will change a lot more because of the destruction caused by the fires.
Look at this image and the aptly named motel on the left.
(http://i2.cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/161129071030-02-gatlinburg-fire-1129-exlarge-169.jpg)
And here's another picture of the Alamo Steakhouse.
(http://i2.cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/161129172046-09-gatlinburg-fire-1129-exlarge-169.jpg)
They have found 3 more bodies so the death toll is now up to 7. :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap:
Last time we were down there was in 2010 so it has been a little over 6 years now. Probably will not recognize the place by the time they get it all repaired and we get back down there. . .
Quote from: Locutus on November 30, 2016, 04:13:44 PM
And here's another picture of the Alamo Steakhouse.
(http://i2.cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/161129172046-09-gatlinburg-fire-1129-exlarge-169.jpg)
Makes me sick man. . . It really does. . .
Quote from: Locutus on November 30, 2016, 04:10:58 PM
Look at this image and the aptly named motel on the left.
(http://i2.cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/161129071030-02-gatlinburg-fire-1129-exlarge-169.jpg)
Yeah. I guess they don't call them the smokies for nothing eh?
Quote from: Palehorse on November 30, 2016, 05:06:03 PM
They have found 3 more bodies so the death toll is now up to 7. :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap:
Last time we were down there was in 2010 so it has been a little over 6 years now. Probably will not recognize the place by the time they get it all repaired and we get back down there. . .
I'd like to go back there at some point myself, and would if an immediate opportunity arose, but I won't plan any trip back there for a couple of years now due to the fires.
Quote from: Palehorse on November 30, 2016, 05:07:09 PM
Yeah. I guess they don't call them the smokies for nothing eh?
Unfortunately, they have more smoke than they bargained for at this point.
Quote from: Locutus on November 30, 2016, 05:12:26 PM
I'd like to go back there at some point myself, and would if an immediate opportunity arose, but I won't plan any trip back there for a couple of years now due to the fires.
We were planning on going back next year in September, but that is out now. . . Whatever facilities that are left are going to be booked solid for the foreseeable future for sure.
I've not see if this fire impacted the National Park or not. I assume it has because of the black bear pics I have seen; cubs mostly orphaned and some burned.
Latest list of Structures/Businesses and their status :
Alamo Steakhouse: Destroyed
Applewood Farmhouse: Intact, and served meals to first responders.
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts: All buildings except Hughes Hall and Wild Wing survived with little damage. (More info)
Black Bear Falls: Earlier reports from TEMA said it was destroyed, but management has confirmed no damage.
Buckberry Lodge: Says they are "currently assessing the situation and conditions of the lodge." Currently unable to take reservations.
Carr's Cottages: No known damage as of Tuesday morning.
Chalet Village: Suffered damage, but not destroyed.
Chapel at the Park: Intact. More info here.
CLIMB Works: Intact
Cobbly Knob area: About 70 homes destroyed.
Condo Villas of Gatlinburg Association: 31 homes destroyed.
Cupid's Chapel of Love: Destroyed
Days Inn on the River: Owner confirmed to WBIR they believe the building is still standing, though they think a the Quality Inn behind it will likely be damaged.
Deer Ridge Mountain Resort: Intact
Dollywood: Several cabins damaged or destroyed. DreamMore resort not damaged. Dollywood park has some wind damage but no damage from fire. Park will be closed Wednesday.
Elkmont: Intact
Elk Springs Resort: Cabins seem to be in fine shape, though some employees lost their homes.
Fudge Shoppe of the Smokies: intact and will reopen as soon as allowed
Gatlinburg-Pittman High School: Not damaged
Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont: GSMNP officials confirmed to WBIR no park structures have been damaged by the fires in the Elkmont or Park Headquarters area. They did have minor damage from downed trees.
Hillbilly Golf: Buildings intact, some damage to the golf course.
Highland Condominiums: Destroyed.
Honeymoon Hills: Intact.
LeConte Lodge: Intact
Little Log Wedding Chapel: Intact
Log Cabin Pancake House (Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg): Intact
Mooney's Ski Mountain Chalet: Unknown.
Mysterious Mansion: Unknown.
Ober Gatlinburg: Intact
Park Vista hotel: Intact
Parrot Mountain: Intact
Pi Beta Phi Elementary School: Intact (Suffered some minor wind and smoke damage)
Pittman Center Elementary School: Not damaged
Ripley's Aquarium: Intact.
Rocky Waters Motor Inn: They believe the building is still standing.
Sugarland Visitors Center: GSMNP officials confirmed no park structures have been damaged by the fires in the Elkmont or Park Headquarters area. They did have minor damage from downed trees.
Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre: Intact, although the owner lost his home.
The Island: Completely untouched by fire.
The Mountain Lodge (Restaurant): Destroyed. (Been there too!)
Tree Tops Resort: They know some (if not all) of their buildings have been destroyed.
Wear's Valley area: About 70 homes destroyed.
Westgate Resort: Several cabins damaged. Main check-in building is just a skeleton.
According to that list, the Park Vista hotel is intact, even though the fire was very close in the video posted earlier in this thread.
I wonder how much damage they had.
That lobby video looked like it was filled with smoke. I can't imagine that there won't be some repairs necessary to rectify that. All of that smoke also probably made it into many, if not all, of the guest rooms. Major renovations may be required before they can reopen.
Quote from: Locutus on November 30, 2016, 05:37:53 PM
According to that list, the Park Vista hotel is intact, even though the fire was very close in the video posted earlier in this thread.
I wonder how much damage they had.
That lobby video looked like it was filled with smoke. I can't imagine that there won't be some repairs necessary to rectify that. All of that smoke also probably made it into many, if not all, of the guest rooms. Major renovations may be required before they can reopen.
Yeah, and I just viewed a map from a Knoxville newspaper there that lists it as a total loss. . . The list above comes from an NBC affiliate station there. So clearly there is some confusion amongst them as things are still being assessed. About the only things I know for sure are the Alamo and the cabin we stayed in during our honeymoon. The rest is more of a guess than anything. . .
Here's the NBC affiliate listing I posted above: http://www.wbir.com/news/local/gatlinburg-fires-whats-damaged-destroyed-and-intact/357891924 (http://www.wbir.com/news/local/gatlinburg-fires-whats-damaged-destroyed-and-intact/357891924)
Here's a link to the map: http://www.knoxnews.com/story/news/2016/11/29/map-bussinesses-burned-gatlinburg-fire/94586732/ (http://www.knoxnews.com/story/news/2016/11/29/map-bussinesses-burned-gatlinburg-fire/94586732/) There is slink to the full sized map within the article.
This statue of ole' Jeebus survived the fire. CNN is calling it "somewhat of a miracle." :rolleyes:
(http://i2.cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/161201095343-fire-statute-jesus-medium-plus-169.jpg)
Death toll has risen to 10 today. 3 more found extra crispy.
Quote from: Palehorse on December 01, 2016, 06:31:53 PM
Death toll has risen to 10 today. 3 more found extra crispy.
I'm afraid the reaper isn't done with that area. :reap: :reap:
Quote from: Locutus on December 01, 2016, 06:36:59 PM
I'm afraid the reaper isn't done with that area. :reap: :reap:
I fear you are correct sir. . . Simply horrible. . .
Quote from: Locutus on December 01, 2016, 02:09:55 PM
This statue of ole' Jeebus survived the fire. CNN is calling it "somewhat of a miracle." :rolleyes:
(http://i2.cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/161201095343-fire-statute-jesus-medium-plus-169.jpg)
Isaac McCord found a page of the Bible while helping to clean up Dollywood. Another supposed "miracle". His story and some of the verses:
"I just found this while helping our House and Grounds team clean different areas of Dollywood Theme Park. It was under a bench soaking wet. Talk about goosebumps....
Joel 1:15
The day of the LORD is near, the day when destruction comes from the Almighty. How terrible that day will be!
Joel 1:19
To you, LORD, I call, for fire has devoured the pastures in the wilderness and flames have burned up all the trees of the field.
Joel 1:20
Even the beasts of the field pant for you because the water brooks are dried up, and fire has devoured the pastures of the wilderness.
And at the bottom barely visible is:
Joel 2:1
Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand;"
Get ready everyone! The Lord is coming! :eek:
Quote from: AbbyTC on December 01, 2016, 07:53:14 PM
Isaac McCord found a page of the Bible while helping to clean up Dollywood. Another supposed "miracle". His story and some of the verses:
"I just found this while helping our House and Grounds team clean different areas of Dollywood Theme Park. It was under a bench soaking wet. Talk about goosebumps....
Joel 1:15
The day of the LORD is near, the day when destruction comes from the Almighty. How terrible that day will be!
Joel 1:19
To you, LORD, I call, for fire has devoured the pastures in the wilderness and flames have burned up all the trees of the field.
Joel 1:20
Even the beasts of the field pant for you because the water brooks are dried up, and fire has devoured the pastures of the wilderness.
And at the bottom barely visible is:
Joel 2:1
Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand;"
Get ready everyone! The Lord is coming! :eek:
I saw that and strained my eyes reading what was on that page. I should have just waited for your post!
It has one of my bible thumping siblings all jiggie over it. In speaking with her about the election I referred to Pence as the "anti-Christ" and now after reading about this bible page and what it says, she's starting to think I may be onto something. :spooked:
No damned wonder we have a Raging Cheeto for a POTUS. The people of this nation are so damned gullible! :roll eyes: :ogod: :end: :ogod:
Heard 10 have been found dead. Very sad, a hotel
We stayed at a few years ago was completely destroyed.
Quote from: Purplelady1040 on December 01, 2016, 08:55:27 PM
Heard 10 have been found dead. Very sad, a hotel
We stayed at a few years ago was completely destroyed.
Numerous structures, cabins, and hotels, etc., have been destroyed there. It's just awful.
Quote from: Locutus on December 01, 2016, 09:14:52 PM
Numerous structures, cabins, and hotels, etc., have been destroyed there. It's just awful.
We were thinking of going to Cherokee, North Carolina for a couple of days spring break. That is still part of the Smokies but don't know if they were affected or not. I have a friend checking into to see. The hotel we stayed at that was burnt to the ground was called the Sydney James. It was the one time that we actually saw a real bear wandering around.
The only good thing is that the rains of the past couple of days have put the fires out for the most part. It's going to be a long road to recovery. The pictures that were posted previously in this thread show what those people are facing.
Watch that video from the lobby of the Park Vista hotel that I posted. Very scary stuff.
Quote from: Locutus on December 01, 2016, 09:22:55 PM
The only good thing is that the rains of the past couple of days have put the fires out for the most part. It's going to be a long road to recovery. The pictures that were posted previously in this thread show what those people are facing.
Watch that video from the lobby of the Park Vista hotel that I posted. Very scary stuff.
Yes, it will be long road to recovery. I did hear the sheriff of one of the counties say the rain was good but not to be too hopeful as I guess winds could kick the fires back up. Do they know whether it is as intentionally set or not? If it was intentional, I hope they throw the book at the people who did this.
11 now dead.
What is wrong with people, why in hell don't they leave a place that is burning up. :flame: :flame: :flame: :flame: :fire:
This is so sad.
http://www.wthr.com/article/from-afar-man-watches-gatlinburg-home-burn
Yeah, it's a real bad scene all the way around.
Quote from: The Troll on December 01, 2016, 10:27:56 PM
What is wrong with people, why in hell don't they leave a place that is burning up. :flame: :flame: :flame: :flame: :fire:
Troll, I think for some it has to do with maybe saving their homes and memories of what they have.
Quote from: Locutus on December 02, 2016, 12:20:24 AM
Yeah, it's a real bad scene all the way around.
Yes, it is.
Quote from: The Troll on December 01, 2016, 10:27:56 PM
What is wrong with people, why in hell don't they leave a place that is burning up. :flame: :flame: :flame: :flame: :fire:
Most of them were trying to. The fact is those roads are tiny and have switchbacks in them; making it damned near impossible for everyone trying to leave to get through in a timely manner.
Forest fires are a part of life in and near the forest. Forests are fuel for fire and some species of trees and plants need fires to survive. People just need to realize this and decide/design accordingly.
Interesting article that ties nicely in with what PH posted above. In this article, a CNN meteorologist interviews a man from the University of Tennessee who has been predicting a fire in and around the Gatlinburg area for 15 years.
Gatlinburg Was Made to Burn (http://www.cnn.com/2016/12/02/us/weather-gatlinburg-was-made-to-burn/index.html)
Quote from: Locutus on December 02, 2016, 10:09:20 AM
Interesting article that ties nicely in with what PH posted above. In this article, a CNN meteorologist interviews a man from the University of Tennessee who has been predicting a fire in and around the Gatlinburg area for 15 years.
Gatlinburg Was Made to Burn (http://www.cnn.com/2016/12/02/us/weather-gatlinburg-was-made-to-burn/index.html)
Wow, interesting article and PH is right about a lot of those roads being narrow. The first time we went we rented a cabin and the road was so narrow and up a mountain. I was pretty sure we had gotten to a meth lab when trying to find the cabin.
Quote from: Locutus on December 02, 2016, 10:09:20 AM
Interesting article that ties nicely in with what PH posted above. In this article, a CNN meteorologist interviews a man from the University of Tennessee who has been predicting a fire in and around the Gatlinburg area for 15 years.
Gatlinburg Was Made to Burn (http://www.cnn.com/2016/12/02/us/weather-gatlinburg-was-made-to-burn/index.html)
Thanks for posting this and it is exactly what I was trying to touch on with my post. Spend enough time in the forest of this planet and you will get burned eventually. :yes:
I'm seeing reports that the death toll has risen to 13 now. . . :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap: :reap:
Quote from: Purplelady1040 on December 02, 2016, 06:01:35 AM
Troll, I think for some it has to do with maybe saving their homes and memories of what they have.
Mrs. Purple Lady, there is only four thing I want out of my house in a fire like this, is. My wife, me, my cat and the my small safe with my insurance papers, my money, plus my small gun collection. The rest can burn up and I will buy everything new again. My insurance covers everything at replace cost. I think that $210,000 should be just right for a house that was built in 1880. :yes: :biggrin: :trustme:
If you have the right safe, you can leave it and it won't burn. ;D
Good story coming out of the fires.
http://www.wcnc.com/news/couple-82-survive-by-hiking-out-of-fire-on-foot/361970122
Quote from: Locutus on December 02, 2016, 07:49:14 PM
Good story coming out of the fires.
http://www.wcnc.com/news/couple-82-survive-by-hiking-out-of-fire-on-foot/361970122
Most people I know that are their age would be lucky to be able to walk a few blocks on a sidewalk without giving out or falling down, and having to have the fire department come help them get back up. While I'm sure the hell fire at their backs was a great motivator, it is still an amazing story none-the-less. And what a refreshing perspective from them both to just be happy to have each other and their lives. :smile: :yes:
Quote from: The Troll on December 02, 2016, 06:56:08 PM
Mrs. Purple Lady, there is only four thing I want out of my house in a fire like this, is. My wife, me, my cat and the my small safe with my insurance papers, my money, plus my small gun collection. The rest can burn up and I will buy everything new again. My insurance covers everything at replace cost. I think that $210,000 should be just right for a house that was built in 1880. :yes: :biggrin: :trustme:
I agree on that and like Locutus posted there are some safes that won't burn.
Here's a good story coming out of the Gatlinburg fires. The owner of the Alamo Steakhouse, which has been discussed earlier on this thread, has said that all employees will continue to receive their full salaries for up to a year. There are still some good people out there.
Link to story (http://www.wfmynews2.com/news/nation-now/tn-wildfires-alamo-steakhouse-owner-says-employees-maintain-salaries/362422102)
That's great.
Two juvenile teens are facing aggravated arson charges in the Gatlinburg fires. :mad: :mad:
Quote from: Locutus on December 07, 2016, 04:25:52 PM
Two juvenile teens are facing aggravated arson charges in the Gatlinburg fires. :mad: :mad:
Damn. It will end up with multiple manslaughter charges as well I am thinking. . . :yes:
Possible reckless homicide as that is the reckless intent of killing someone. 14 counts of that, plus arson and even animal abuse and they can go away for a bit. Certify them as adults.
Quote from: Purplelady1040 on December 07, 2016, 10:06:07 PM
Possible reckless homicide as that is the reckless intent of killing someone. 14 counts of that, plus arson and even animal abuse and they can go away for a bit. Certify them as adults.
They can charge the two 14 year old kids with all the charges they want. :yes: But, if the boys can prove they just started a campfire and it got away from them. All it takes is one person on the jury, just like in the killer cop trial, to have the trial stopped. Besides they can't get blood out of two turnips. $$$$$$$$ If was an accident all they are going to do is cost the taxpayers $64,000 a year to keep them in jail and ruin two more people's lives. :jail: :rant:
Quote from: The Troll on December 07, 2016, 10:44:38 PM
They can charge the two 14 year old kids with all the charges they want. :yes: But, if the boys can prove they just started a campfire and it got away from them. All it takes is one person on the jury, just like in the killer cop trial, to have the trial stopped. Besides they can't get blood out of two turnips. $$$$$$$$ If was an accident all they are going to do is cost the taxpayers $64,000 a year to keep them in jail and ruin two more people's lives. :jail: :rant:
Who knows and they can possibly prove it wasn't accident and certify them as adults. I don't think they are going to get a slap on the wrist
Quote from: Purplelady1040 on December 08, 2016, 06:58:09 AM
Who knows and they can possibly prove it wasn't accident and certify them as adults. I don't think they are going to get a slap on the wrist
I wonder if your two kids were burning trash, building a campfire, or just playing with fire and it got away from. :confused: You think they should get 20 years in prison. :huh1:
Quote from: The Troll on December 08, 2016, 11:23:55 AM
I wonder if your two kids were burning trash, building a campfire, or just playing with fire and it got away from. :confused: You think they should get 20 years in prison. :huh1:
I think motive is the key if it was intentional. If it was an accident, then that's a different story. That said, I think the charges of aggravated arson, by the very definition of it, indicates that it wasn't an accident.
Quote from: Locutus on December 08, 2016, 11:29:52 AM
I think motive is the key if it was intentional. If it was an accident, then that's a different story. That said, I think the charges of aggravated arson, by the very definition of it, indicates that it wasn't an accident.
Plus they may go for reckless homicide.
Quote from: The Troll on December 08, 2016, 11:23:55 AM
I wonder if your two kids were burning trash, building a campfire, or just playing with fire and it got away from. :confused: You think they should get 20 years in prison. :huh1:
Seeing as how we live in an area that we can't burn trash that would be extremely rare for our kids to do. I don't know for certain but there was a burn ban at the time this took place so why would one as a parent allow their kids to do a fire knowing it may get away. Yes, I think they should get something especially due to the fact that land was lost and so were lives.
I wonder if since the Smokies is a National Park of federal charges will be done?
Well federal agents - specifically ATF - were involved in the investigation.
Quote from: Locutus on December 08, 2016, 12:06:45 PM
Well federal agents - specifically ATF - were involved in the investigation.
Okay, I had had a friend ask me if I thought some federal charges might be involved. I guess time will tell.
If the state doesn't do the right things then the feds will. My guess is that it will be a joint prosecution with those found guilty being sentenced to state administered punishment.
I'm anxious to see what really happened.
I'm thinking, if it was an accident, despite being stupid, it's possible these kids have already been punished enough.......I'm thinking any normal person would be wishing they were dead, after killing 11 and the enormous damage they created.
Their lives will never be the same.
Why would they have been charged with aggravated arson if it was an accident? Arson implies that it was intentional.
Quote from: Locutus on December 08, 2016, 01:06:51 PM
Why would they have been charged with aggravated arson if it was an accident? Arson implies that it was intentional.
If that is the case, then throw'em in prison or a work program for the rest of their lives.
Maybe make them wear an ankle bracelet and they clean the park 12 hours a day, then go to jail for shut-eye...then do it again. Let'em put about 25-years in.
I'd like to know their ages. There was talk from the head of the TBI of possibly moving them to adult criminal court, so I don't think they're very young juveniles.
Quote from: Locutus on December 08, 2016, 01:11:34 PM
I'd like to know their ages. There was talk from the head of the TBI of possibly moving them to adult criminal court, so I don't think they're very young juveniles.
It was reported they were (14) but not sure how accurate that is. Most states can certify as adults at 14.
Do you people know, that if :ghost: god hadn't sent those hurricane winds, 40 to 50mph winds into the fire it most likely been been nothing and cost about $35 in Kentucky. :yes: It is amazing how some many bad thing can come together at the same time. Leaf fire with hurricane like winds in Kentucky or a Russian bus driver driving down the road being killed by a meteorite through the windshield of his bus, talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time. :think: :o :yes:
Quote from: The Troll on December 08, 2016, 04:48:29 PM
Do you people know, that if :ghost: god hadn't sent those hurricane winds, 40 to 50mph winds into the fire it most likely been been nothing and cost about $35 in Kentucky. :yes: It is amazing how some many bad thing can come together at the same time. Leaf fire with hurricane like winds in Kentucky or a Russian bus driver driving down the road being killed by a meteorite through the windshield of his bus, talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time. :think: :o :yes:
True.....makes you either the bug or the windshield....