Gatlinburg, Tennessee officials said Thursday afternoon that 10 people have died from wildfires that swept through the Smoky Mountains, as federal authorities are chasing 70 leads in connection to the fire officials believe was set intentionally.
The fire was spotted in the Smoky Mountains National Park on the afternoon of Nov. 23, and was mostly contained within the park until Monday. The fire rapidly spread Monday afternoon and evening when strong winds blew the fire into the tourist town of Gatlinburg.
PHOTOS:Wildfire aftermath in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Residents and visitors in the city had minutes to escape before 700 structures were burned.
The fire spread on very dry ground, and scorched 17,000 acres of land.
According to WATE-TV, ATF has officials investigating who is responsible for the fire that killed 10. No one has been arrested in connection to starting the wildfire.
Wildfire notes:
- Gatlinburg officials hope to re-open downtown by Wednesday. While most of downtown spared, authorities are continuing with search and rescue missions.
- Residents and business owners will be allowed to access their property during daytime hours in Gatlinburg beginning Friday.
- Rain has helped put out the wildfire in the Gatlinburg area, but fire officials continue to monitor hotspots, as conditions dry this weekend.
