Asheville, North Carolina – Strong northwest winds are expected to sweep across the mountains of western North Carolina and parts of Upstate South Carolina beginning Friday evening, creating a heightened risk for downed trees, power outages, and hazardous travel through Saturday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, a High Wind Watch is in effect from Friday evening through Saturday evening for much of the North Carolina mountains and the Greenville County mountain zones in South Carolina. Sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected, with gusts potentially reaching 65 mph along ridgelines and exposed areas.
The wind threat stretches across Avery, Mitchell, Yancey, Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania, McDowell, Rutherford, Polk, Burke, and Caldwell counties, including communities such as Asheville, Hendersonville, Brevard, Black Mountain, Boone-area high country, and Chimney Rock State Park. Travel may become difficult on mountain roads, especially for trucks, RVs, and other high-profile vehicles.
Cold air moving in behind the system will combine with the strong winds early Saturday, producing sharply colder wind chills across higher elevations. Some blowing snow is also possible near the Tennessee border, which could briefly reduce visibility on mountain passes.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, prepare for possible power interruptions, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind periods. The High Wind Watch may be upgraded as the event draws closer, with additional advisories possible through the weekend.
