Historic Rainfall and Severe Weather Hits Asheville

Historic Rainfall and Severe Weather Hits Asheville

Asheville is soaking wet this week, with nature pulling out all the stops! After two days of heavy downpours that shattered rainfall records, it seems we’re just getting started. The Asheville Regional Airport set new daily rainfall records on Wednesday and Thursday, and forecasts predict a third consecutive record on Friday. Can you imagine? That’s something to talk about!

Rainfall Records Being Broken

As of now, September 2024 has become the wettest September on record in Asheville, surpassing a whopping 14 inches of rainfall and counting! Isn’t that something? It’s even looking like this month could outdo May 2018 for the title of the *wettest month ever* here in town.

Impending Storm Threats

But hold on; it’s not just about the rain. Brace yourselves! The storm from Hurricane Helene is making its way through the western Carolinas. Early Friday, it’s expected to whip through our area, and weather experts warn of damaging winds. In lower elevations, gusts could hit up to 65 mph, while higher elevations might see winds approaching 80 mph. It’s definitely a time to stay alert!

Flooding Impacts

With all this rain, we’re not just dealing with strong winds; flooding is a real concern as well. Authorities are forecasting record crests for the French Broad River and the Swannanoa River by Friday afternoon. Other rivers in the region, like the Pigeon River in Canton, are also anticipated to reach major flood stages. So if you’re near any waterways, it’s wise to keep an extra eye on rising water levels.

Community Preparedness

In light of the forecast, power crews are hard at work at the WNC Agriculture Center, prepping for the storm. With potential wind damage around, many residents might find themselves without power, and some outages could last for days. It’s essential to prepare for the possibility of being cut off from service, so maybe check your home supplies. Do you have enough flashlight batteries and non-perishable snacks? Now would be a good time to stock up!

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

In these moments of extreme weather, it’s crucial to keep informed. Local officials will undoubtedly share important updates about road closures and safety guidelines as conditions change rapidly. If you have specific routes you take often, avoid them if they’re prone to flooding or bring up-to-date news on your phone—preferably when it’s safe to check via your favorite reliable channels.

Our Asheville Community

As we weather this storm together, let’s remind ourselves that we’re all in this as one community. Check in on your neighbors, especially those who may need a little extra help during these challenging times. Whether it’s sharing supplies or just lending an ear to chat, every little bit helps in keeping our spirits high.

Final Thoughts

So, Asheville, as we hunker down and watch the rain come pouring down, let’s stay safe and take care of one another. We shall see how many more records this month will set and how our beloved hometown will bounce back once the rains have passed. Here’s hoping for sunny days ahead soon!