KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — UPDATE SUNDAY: Mead's Quarry Lake is closed for the foreseeable future after part of the rock face gave way late Saturday afternoon, sending a wave across the water that shocked onlookers and swept away some of their belongings.
Ijams Nature Center announced the closure by Instagram.
Ijams officials couldn't be reached Sunday morning.
"Mead's Quarry Lake and Tharp Trace Trail are closed due to a significant landslide on the back wall of the Quarry Lake late Saturday afternoon. Ijams needs to have the area assessed to determine stability and safety before reopening the lake and Tharp Trace Trail, which runs adjacent to the area of the landslide," the posting states.
Geologists will look at the site and share findings and recommendations.
People were on the opposite shore Saturday afternoon enjoying the day out when rocks began tumbling from the steep rockface across the water. What started as a small amount of rocks falling into the water suddenly became a complete collapse, video posted by witnesses shows.
The collapse sent a wave of water toward those on the opposite shore, sweeping away the belongings of some people.
According to Knoxville Fire Department Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks, when crews arrived at the scene, they were advised that everyone had made it out of the water and no one was in need of rescue. However, Wilbanks said one person did want to be seen at a local hospital and was transported by AMR.
Until the lake and trail reopen, Ijams said in its Instagram posting that all visitors must obey warnings signs and stay away.
"All other trails are open for hiking and biking. Please respect the posted warning signs and avoid the lake and Tharp Trace until they are officially reopened. Thank you for your patience and assistance in keeping everyone safe."
The quarry is popular with picnickers, swimmers and water enthusiasts. Kayaking and canoeing on the lake also are favorite activities.
The imposing rock face of the old marble quarry offers a scenic backdrop to outings on the water.
PREVIOUS STORY: The Knoxville Fire Department responded to Meads Quarry around 5:45 p.m. EDT on Saturday evening for a report of a rockslide.
According to Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks, when crews arrived at the scene, they were advised that everyone had made it out of the water and no one was in need of rescue. However, Wilbanks said one person did want to be seen at a local hospital and was transported by American Medical Response.
More information such as the cause of the rock slide is not immediately available. This story will be updated when more information is available.