High wind warning issued for the High Country

Nicole Madden,

A powerful Arctic cold front will begin to sweep into the region tonight, bringing damaging wind and another blast of bitter cold temperatures. Gusts up to 60 mph will be possible for the high country. This could lead to downed trees, dangerous travel and power outages. A High Wind Warning will go into effect Wednesday night through Thursday afternoon.

Wind Alerts

High Wind Warning

Where: Avery, Ashe and Watauga Counties

Timing: Wednesday 7 p.m. – 4 p.m. Thursday

Winds: Sustained NW 20-30 mph, gusts up to 60 mph

Impacts:

      • Strong wind could knock down trees and power lines, leading to scattered to widespread power outages
      • Hazardous travel, especially for high profile vehicles

Wind Advisory

Where: Burke and Caldwell Mountains

Timing: Wednesday 7 p.m. – 4 p.m. Thursday

Winds: Sustained NW 15-25 mph, gusts up to 50 mph

Impacts:

      • Tree limbs could be blown down causing power outages
      • Driving may become difficult, especially for high profile vehicles

Graf Longer Range Wind Gusts

The Big Picture and How to Prepare

The strongest wind will develop overnight and persist into Thursday afternoon. These gusts along with a rush of Arctic air, will send temperatures plummeting into the teens by early Thursday night in the mountains with near zero wind chills. Snow will also be possible Wednesday night into early Thursday for parts of the High Country near the Tennessee border. Snowfall totals from a dusting to up to 2 inches will be possible for the highest elevations. This could make travel slick Thursday morning.

Safety Tips:

    • Charge your devices: Be ready for potential power outages
    • Secure outdoor items: Strong winds can turn loose items into projectiles
    • Limit travel: Mountain roads will be especially dangerous during peak winds

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