WNC Helene Weather: State of Emergency in North Carolina; ‘Don’t Wait for the Worst’

How Hurricane Helene As the storm approaches North Carolina, flood warnings have been expanded, and tropical storm warnings are now in effect for much of the western region, where the most severe impacts are expected.

Governor Roy Cooper announced State of emergency before the storm arrives.

“Helene is threatening torrential rains, flash floods, landslides and damaging winds across the mountains and Piedmont of our state,” Cooper said. “Now is the time for North Carolinians to prepare, make sure emergency kits are up to date and pay attention to severe weather warnings in their area.”

As of Wednesday afternoon, a state of emergency was declared for the following municipalities: Buncombe, McDowell, Transylvania and Caldwell counties, as well as the city of Marion.

Read more: BPR prepares for potential power outages caused by Hurricane Helene

‘Catastrophic’ flood risk increases

During Wednesday’s noon briefing, weather forecasters from National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg reported that the storm’s latest track has shifted slightly more to the west of the western Carolinas, which will bring increased rainfall from Thursday night into Friday morning.

Trisha Palmer, a meteorologist coordinating the warnings, highlighted the growing strength of the storm, stating: “Severe and catastrophic flooding is becoming increasingly likely in parts of western North Carolina.

High risk flash flood

Helene’s arrival comes just after a stationary front has already brought rain to the region. “We’re really concerned that these rain bands will form ahead of the main tropical rain event from Helene,” Palmer said, emphasizing the potential for flash flooding and landslides.

During Wednesday’s update, Palmer emphasized the seriousness of the situation by pointing out the high risk of flash floods. She noted that these high-risk days are rarely issued but account for nearly 40% of all flood deaths and 80% of flood damage.

“High-risk days don’t happen often, but when they do, they are serious. People need to stay off the roads, stay home if possible, and be prepared to act immediately,” she warned. “This is a life-threatening situation.”

Palmer also urged people living in campgrounds on rivers to leave immediately. “If you live in a campground, get out,” she said. “This is not the time to be staying near rivers. Emergency managers may not be able to knock on every door, so you need to act now before it’s too late.”

The risk of heavy rainfall and flooding is increasing

Much of western North Carolina is forecast to receive 8-10 inches of rain through Friday, with local areas near the Blue Ridge Escarpment potentially receiving more than 12 inches. The French Broad River, Swannanoa River and Pigeon River are expected to rise to moderate to major flood stages, putting riverside communities at serious risk.

“We can expect flooding in Asheville and the surrounding areas that will rival the devastating floods of 2004,” Palmer explained. “In some areas, it could even exceed those levels.”

The French Broad River near Asheville is expected to reach moderate flood levels, while areas like Marshall and Hot Springs could experience major flooding. The Pigeon River is also predicted to rise significantly, with localized flooding expected in low-lying areas.

Landslides and strong winds are a serious problem

In addition to flooding, heavy rainfall is expected to cause landslides in mountainous areas. Palmer said rainfall exceeding 10 inches or rapid bursts of 2-3 inches per hour would likely destabilize slopes, causing landslides that could affect homes and roads.

“We have a high risk of significant landslides, especially in the mountains,” Palmer said. “Anyone living in an area that is at risk should be prepared to act quickly and evacuate if necessary.”

Wind gusts of 40-60 mph are also expected across western North Carolina, with the strongest winds forecasted in the mountains. Power outages and downed trees are also predicted.

Timeline and Urgent Public Actions

Rainfall is expected to increase Thursday evening and peak between midnight and early Friday morning. Communities in Asheville, the French Broad River basin and along the Blue Ridge Escarpment will be hit the hardest. Dangerous flooding is expected to continue through the weekend as rivers remain swollen.

Palmer urged residents to prepare now: “The time to act is now. Don’t wait for the worst to happen. If you live in a flood-prone area, plan to evacuate before the waters start to rise.”

Government officials offer the following tips to help you make sure your family is personally prepared:

• Take advantage of multiple ways to receive emergency information, including weather forecasts and warnings.
• Make sure you have emergency alerts turned on on your mobile phone and monitor local news outlets and National Weather Service.
• Make sure you have access to multiple channels where you can receive warnings, especially given the risk of severe storms during the overnight hours.
• Have an emergency plan. Know where you will go if you need to evacuate, especially if you live in a flood-prone area.
• Stock up on emergency supplies or refresh your emergency kit. VisitReadyNC.gov for information on preparing an emergency kit.
• Never drive through flooded roads or around barricades. Turn around. Don’t drown.
• Make sure you know where to seek shelter if a tornado warning is issued in your area.
• Check to see if your local emergency management office offers emergency alert services for its residents. For more information, visit your county office’s website.

Avoid unnecessary travel. If you don’t have to drive, stay home. You can check the latest road conditions by visiting DriveNC.Gov.