Asheville, North Carolina – Strong northwest winds are expected to sweep across the mountains of western North Carolina early Sunday, creating hazardous conditions along ridgelines and increasing the risk for downed trees and isolated power outages throughout the day.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, a Wind Advisory is in effect from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday for high elevations above 3,500 feet in Buncombe, Haywood, Madison, Mitchell, Swain, Yancey, Graham, Macon, and Jackson counties. Avery County, including Banner Elk and Newland, is also included in the advisory. Sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph, especially along exposed mountain ridges.
The strongest winds are expected shortly after sunrise Sunday, continuing through the afternoon hours before gradually easing toward early evening. Locations near the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mount Mitchell, and high-elevation communities such as Cashiers, Highlands, Rainbow Springs, and Banner Elk will see the greatest impacts. Gusty crosswinds may make travel difficult for high-profile vehicles on mountain roads.
Tree limbs could be blown down during peak gusts, which may lead to scattered power outages. Unsecured outdoor items could also be displaced by the strong winds.
Winds are expected to diminish after 6 p.m. Sunday, though breezy conditions may linger into the evening. Residents are urged to secure loose objects, use caution while traveling, and stay alert for any updates if advisories are extended.
