Storm causes longterm road closures just before leaf-peeping season [Video]

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — In northeast Tennessee, survivors of the remnants of Hurricane Helene say the storm swallowed up the area.

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency reports at least three people were killed in the catastrophic storm and miles of roadways and bridge lanes flooded away.

In Cocke County on I-40, the breakdown lane broke off into the Pigeon River during the historic flooding. Of course, the interstate takes drivers to and from North Carolina. It’s also one of the best places to see Tennessee’s fall foliage and access the Great Smoky Mountains.

“This is a devastating economic loss for our community, for our state,” said Rep. Jeremy Faison.

Rep. Jeremy Faison is the House Republican Caucus Chairman at the state legislature. He also represents Cocke County, parts of Hamblen County, and Jefferson County.

Over the weekend, the state representative saw the major damage to crucial water treatment systems in …