Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers walked into areas of Gatlinburg that were surrounded by fire to remove those who were trapped by flames in fires that started Monday, Nov. 28, 2016. (Photo by THP)

Note: This story was last updated at 4:50 p.m.

Fire departments in Oak Ridge, Clinton, Oliver Springs, and Marlow sent crews to help fight the fast-moving wildfires that started burning in the Gatlinburg area on Monday.

The Oak Ridge Fire Department was helping crews in the area around Gatlinburg, a mountain town near Great Smoky Mountains National Park, on Monday night, the City of Oak Ridge said.

Oak Ridge Police Department officers were also on standby, the city said.

Tuesday morning, firefighter Jordan Alcorn said it was a long night, but the Engine 2 crew was on Interstate 40 West headed home.

“Thank you all for the prayers and kind words, that fight is not over, so keep our relief in your prayers!” Alcorn said.

Later Tuesday morning, the city said Oak Ridge Fire Department crews were continuing to help battle the Great Smoky Mountains wildfire.

“There is massive damage and reports of people injured or missing,” the city said. “Please continue to keep everyone affected by this in your thoughts and prayers today.”

Also Tuesday morning, Clinton Fire Chief Archie Brummitt said the Clinton Fire Department was in Gatlinburg in Sevier County. One CFD engine and five firemen responded Monday night around midnight, Brummitt said. [Read more…]