Overview

• On June 18, a localized storm dumped about 2 to 3 inches of rain near mile marker 450, triggering flash floods and a landslide that buried both directions of I-40
• Traffic is being diverted via Exit 20 in North Carolina and Exit 447 in Tennessee onto I-81 and I-26 as crews work to remove mud, rock and standing water
• No serious injuries have been reported after vehicles became trapped in debris, though officials warn that standing water covers several areas and slopes may be unstable
• Tennessee DOT chief engineer Will Reid estimates immediate cleanup and repairs will cost about $500,000, with full reopening not expected for weeks
• The damaged segment is part of a 12-mile stretch weakened by Hurricane Helene in September 2024 and will require years of permanent stabilization using rock anchors and concrete lining