14,ooo people have evacuated and another 2000 are seeking refuge in emergency shelters in Gatlinburg, Tennessee as fires rage throughout the state. So far three people have been killed, and more than 150 homes have been destroyed. The impact of the devastation has sent people fleeing and demolished countless homes and businesses.

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park was closed to visitors when a wildfire started, but intense winds (which topped 80 mph) caused the fire to spread throughout Gatlinburg in a matter of minutes. The drought in Tennessee paired with high-speed winds led to an uncontrollable disaster.

Local officials ordered Gatlinburg to be evacuated on Monday, but many fear that others may have been trapped by the fires. Firefighters, emergency teams and clean-up crews have done their best to fight the desolation. Food and blanket donations from businesses including Walmart have offered support to those affected by the fire.

Such efforts have minimized the effects of the wildfire, but locals are in shock, surprised by the intensity of the fires. Although wildfires are not necessarily uncommon in the Smoky Mountain region, this massive fire was unexpected and remains unprecedented in Smoky Mountain history.