COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is asking motorists to avoid a damaged section of State Route 9 / U.S. 25/70 in Cocke County following Saturday’s flash flooding.
According to TDOT, floodwaters damaged a portion of the highway, and while the roadway remains open, traffic is currently being controlled with temporary traffic signals, allowing only one direction of traffic to pass at a time.
Officials warn that significant traffic backups are expected, particularly this weekend as travelers head to and from North Carolina.
Recommended Detours
Local Traffic
- Use SR 9 to SR 107 to SR 70 into North Carolina.
Commercial Traffic
- Use Interstate 81 to Interstate 26 into North Carolina.
TDOT is asking drivers to use alternate routes whenever possible to reduce congestion and allow repair crews to safely continue restoration work.
The agency says motorists can help speed recovery efforts by staying off the damaged section of highway until repairs are completed.
Newport Journal will continue to provide updates as road conditions change throughout Cocke County.
