The Gaylord Opryland Resort, a beloved Nashville landmark, was evacuated on Monday and has been closed indefinitely as the resort took on water due to the flooding of the nearby Cumberland River.
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On Monday night, the hotel quickly evacuated all of its approximate 1500 guests. City officials said that it could be months before it reopens.
Water floods the inside of the Cascades portico of the Opryland Hotel on Monday, May 3, 2010 in Nashville, Tenn. All of about 1, 500 guests were evacuated overnight from the Opryland Hotel, northeast of the downtown area. The Cumberland River continues to rise at Nashville, but is nearing its crest. Floodwater has spilled onto a couple of downtown streets near the riverfront and restaurants and bars in the tourist district are closed. (AP Photo/The Tennessean, John Partipilo)
The resort complex also houses the Grand Ole Opry, a cultural cornerstone for Nashville and country music, serving as a mecca for performers and fans alike. The complex has housed the Grand Ole Opry since 1974.
While it is unclear how much water the resort has taken on, aerial shots show the area surrounded by water. Record rains in Western and middle Tennessee caused the Cumberland River to flow 12 ft. above flood level.
But the show will go on. The Opry, which hosts more than 150 shows each year, will be moved to a nearby auditorium until the damage to the hotel has been repaired.
“While we ourselves are shaken by the impact of the flooding of the Opry House and throughout the area, it is important that Nashville’s most treasured tradition continues with this week’s shows,” Grand Ole Opry vice president Pete Fisher said in a release.
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