News Summary
Asheville, N.C. has finally emerged from an extended cold snap that lasted 94 hours, with temperatures finally rising above freezing. Although this icy period was shorter than past winters, residents are welcoming the upcoming forecast of warmer weather. However, health concerns arise as flu cases surge, prompting health officials to urge winter precautions. A winter storm watch is also on the horizon, reminding Asheville residents to stay prepared and safe amidst the ongoing winter challenges.
Asheville Heaves a Sigh of Relief as Cold Snap Comes to an End
Asheville, N.C. has finally thawed out after an extended cold snap that lasted a chilly 94 hours. On Thursday, January 23, the mercury rose above freezing around 3 p.m., hitting a balmy 34 degrees at Asheville Regional Airport. Residents can finally rejoice as the bitter cold wraps up, at least for now!
A Remarkable Streak in Winter Weather
This icy stretch, while certainly uncomfortable, was surprisingly shorter than the record-breaking 110 hours of freezing temperatures experienced back in January 2018. Still, it begs the question—what are we to make of our winter woes when we look back at Asheville’s history? For instance, who can forget the infamous 185-hour record of below-freezing temperatures from January 15 to January 23 in 1977? What a time that must have been!
To add to the trivia, January 2025 officially ranks as the sixth coldest January on record in Asheville, reminding us that winter still has some bite left in it. But don’t worry just yet; a shift in the forecast is on the horizon!
The Warm-up Begins!
Yes, you read that right! The Climate Prediction Center is indicating that warmer temperatures are set to make an appearance in Asheville over the next 7 to 10 days. Residents can expect to see temperatures well above average in the coming week, sparking thoughts of spring, even if we are just in the depths of winter!
Additionally, weather models show no significant snow accumulation for Asheville within the next two weeks. So far this winter, the adventures in downtown Asheville have yielded just 1.3 inches of snow, while the airport has seen slightly more at 1.9 inches. It looks like snow bunnies might need to hold off for now.
Health Concerns Amidst the Chill
Hospital Capacity Concerns
Looking Ahead: Weather Warnings and Preparations
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Buncombe County Activates Code Purple Amid Cold Snap
Asheville Implements Code Purple for Emergency Shelter
Asheville Initiates Code Purple to Aid Homeless During Winter
Winter Weather Alert: Houston Faces Major Snowstorm
Arctic Blast Sweeping Across the U.S.
Winter Weather Takes Eastern U.S. by Storm
Asheville Counts the Costs of Hurricane Helene
Cold Snap Hits Western North Carolina This New Year’s Weekend!
Asheville Braces for Heavy Rainfall Following Hurricane Helene
Additional Resources
- Weather.com – Asheville Weather
- News Observer – COVID-19 and Flu Updates
- WRAL – North Carolina Flu Deaths
- Fox Carolina – Mission Health Visitor Restrictions
- Wikipedia: Weather in North Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
