Avery County, North Carolina – Parts of western North Carolina remain under urgent weather alerts early Tuesday as damaging winds and dangerously cold wind chills continue to impact mountain communities.
According to the National Weather Service office in Greenville-Spartanburg, a High Wind Warning remains in effect for Avery County until 7 a.m. EST, with sustained northwest winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts reaching up to 60 mph. At the same time, a Cold Weather Advisory continues until 10 a.m. EST, with wind chills ranging from 5 to 10 degrees below zero, and dropping to as low as 15 below zero at the highest elevations.
High Winds Creating Hazardous Conditions
Mountain communities including Banner Elk, Newland, and Ingalls are experiencing particularly harsh conditions as the combination of strong winds and extreme cold intensifies risks across the region.
Weather officials warn that powerful gusts may down trees and power lines, increasing the likelihood of scattered to widespread power outages. Falling limbs and debris pose additional hazards, especially in wooded and higher-elevation areas.
Travel conditions are also impacted, with authorities cautioning that high-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans, and SUVs may become difficult to control during peak gusts. Exposed roadways and mountain passes are especially vulnerable to sudden crosswinds.
Dangerous Wind Chills Raise Health Concerns
Beyond the wind damage risk, the extreme cold presents a serious threat to personal safety. Wind chills well below zero can cause frostbite on exposed skin in minutes, and significantly raise the risk of hypothermia, particularly for those without proper winter protection.
Officials stress that even brief exposure outdoors can become dangerous, especially at higher elevations where wind speeds remain strongest. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, young children, and those without reliable heating, face increased risk during these conditions.
Emergency Preparedness and Safety Guidance
Residents across the affected areas are urged to take precautionary steps while conditions remain severe:
- Stay indoors whenever possible during peak wind and cold conditions
- Secure loose outdoor items such as trash bins, furniture, and decorations
- Prepare for possible power outages by charging devices and having flashlights ready
- Use caution if traveling, particularly in open or elevated areas
- Dress in layered clothing, including hats, gloves, and insulated outerwear if going outside
Emergency management officials recommend having a basic emergency kit available, including blankets, non-perishable food, water, and battery-powered communication devices.
When Conditions Are Expected to Improve
Forecasters indicate that conditions should gradually improve later Tuesday morning as winds begin to weaken and temperatures slowly recover. However, lingering gusts and cold air may persist in higher elevations even after advisories expire.
Residents are advised to continue monitoring local forecasts and official updates, as rapidly changing mountain weather can prolong hazardous conditions beyond initial expectations.
Ongoing Monitoring Encouraged
Weather officials emphasize that while improvements are expected, caution should remain a priority throughout the morning hours. Additional advisories could be issued if conditions worsen or persist longer than anticipated.
Staying informed through trusted weather updates and taking preventative measures can help reduce the risk of injury, property damage, and power disruptions during this period of severe winter weather.
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