After enduring the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene, Interstate 40 is finally scheduled to reopen on March 1, nearly half a year after the storm wreaked havoc on sections of the highway in both North Carolina and Tennessee. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has officially announced the anticipated reopening date for the interstate specifically in the Pigeon River Gorge area near the border with Tennessee.
Once the highway reopens, traffic will be restricted to one lane in each direction, and in certain areas, a reduced speed limit of 40 mph will be enforced, as confirmed by the department. These lane and speed limitations will extend a few miles into Tennessee as well, ensuring safety for all travelers using this crucial route.
Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in Florida on September 26, 2024, caused widespread devastation across multiple states in the Southeast, reaching as far inland as Tennessee. Following the storm, significant portions of I-40 in both North Carolina and Tennessee had to be closed due to flooding and debris resulting from the hurricane’s impact.
In a recent photograph shared by the NCDOT, the progress made on the interstate in the months following the hurricane is clearly visible, showcasing the efforts to restore this vital roadway. Interstate 40 serves as a vital link connecting Western North Carolina with Eastern Tennessee, facilitating essential travel and commerce between these regions.
Nearly four weeks after the destructive storm hit, the NCDOT reported close to 7,000 locations where roads and bridges had been damaged by Hurricane Helene. Since then, some sections of the highway in both states have gradually reopened to traffic, marking significant milestones in the ongoing recovery efforts.
Source: I-40 in North Carolina to reopen in March, nearly 6 months after Hurricane Helene
