Exploring Gatlinburg, Tennessee

American Grit received exclusive footage from a Blackhawk pilot who flew over Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the site of a fire that raged across Sevier County, killing seven and leaving dozens more missing. It is estimated that at least 15,000 acres of land have been affected by the fires, destroying about 700 homes and businesses, and displacing about 14,000 residents.The footage feels like something out of a post-apocalyptic movie. Buildings gutted by flame, trees stripped of their color, the haze of smoke still hanging in the air. Entire neighborhoods snuffed out in just a few hours, their skeletons on display in a quiet, unassuming picture of complete devastation. It is peaceful, and it is horrifying.

But not everything was destroyed by the unforgiving fire. Dollywood, Dolly Parton's theme park, was one of the few places that received minimal damage. The park will reopen Friday after repairs are completed. Ober Gatlinburg ski resort also survived, and Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies made it through the ordeal with no animals harmed, despite the staff having to evacuate in the middle of the crisis.Wet weather in Tennessee last night and this morning should help firefighters in their attempts to quench the flames, but at least 19 more fires have already sprung up just yesterday alone in the area.Tennessee does typically experience some fires during the summer, caused by lightning. The cause of this one is currently under investigation, and many believe that the cause is manmade, whether by arson or accident. For about 75 years, these fires have been put out quickly, leaving unburned dead foliage behind, perfect fuel for a runaway blaze.If you would like to donate to help the people affected by this disaster, the American Red Cross is currently taking donations toward the disaster. Additionally, Kroger stores in East and Middle Tennessee, South Kentucky, and North Alabama are partnering with the Red Cross; you can request any amount added to your receipt for a donation. Volunteers are also needed in the area; you can register online to help with the aftermath of the fires.