Section of Foothills Parkway Closed for Inspection Following 4.1 Magnitude Earthquake Near Greenback

GATLINBURG, Tenn. — A portion of the Foothills Parkway West, known as the “new section” within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP), has been temporarily closed for safety inspections following a 4.1 magnitude earthquake near Greenback, Tennessee. The park announced the closure via social media at 11:50 a.m. on Saturday, citing potential structural damage to the roadway.

Earthquake Details: The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the earthquake occurred at 9:04 a.m. approximately 12 miles southeast of Greenback, near the Tennessee-North Carolina border. Tremors were felt across East Tennessee and as far south as Atlanta, Georgia.

Safety Measures: The Federal Highway Administration will conduct inspections on the Foothills Parkway to assess any damage. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) stated that while no immediate roadway or bridge damage has been reported, routine inspections of infrastructure in the affected region will continue over the coming weeks as a precaution.

Context: This earthquake ranks among the strongest recorded in East Tennessee. Authorities urge drivers to avoid the closed section of the parkway until further notice and to monitor official updates from GSMNP and TDOT. For ongoing coverage, stay tuned to local news outlets.

Key Points: Closed Area: Foothills Parkway West (Great Smoky Mountains National Park). Magnitude: 4.1, centered near Greenback, TN. - Impact: Felt regionally, including Atlanta. Response: Inspections underway; no immediate damage reported.