Asheville, NC, July 31, 2025
News Summary
Residents of Asheville and surrounding areas are warned about dangerous heat and the likelihood of scattered thunderstorms through Wednesday evening. With heat indices approaching triple digits, significant health risks are expected, particularly for vulnerable populations. Potential severe thunderstorms could bring damaging winds and heavy rainfall, prompting concerns about flash flooding. A cold front is anticipated to provide relief by the weekend.
Asheville Forecasts Scattered Thunderstorms and High Heat Indices Through Wednesday Evening
The Asheville area and parts of the southern Appalachians are expected to experience dangerous heat and scattered thunderstorms on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. Heat indices are nearing triple digits, presenting significant health risks to residents.
While actual temperatures will be slightly lower than those recorded on Tuesday, high humidity levels are expected to create oppressive conditions. Scattered to numerous thunderstorms are likely to develop throughout Wednesday afternoon and into the evening. There is a potential for some of these storms to become severe.
The primary threats from the anticipated storms include damaging wind gusts, locally heavy rainfall, and risks of isolated flash flooding. Rainfall rates during severe storms could exceed 2 inches per hour, with localized totals reaching between 3 to 4 inches in mountainous areas where terrain complicates water drainage. Deep atmospheric moisture and slow-moving storm patterns further escalate the flash flood risk.
During this time, radar coverage from the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (KGSP) is offline due to scheduled maintenance and part replacement, which is expected to last through Thursday, July 31. However, nearby radar sites in Columbia, SC; Peachtree City, GA; Huntsville, AL; Morristown, TN; Blacksburg, VA; and Raleigh/Durham, NC, are providing supplemental coverage to monitor storm developments.
Looking ahead, a cold front is projected to sweep through the region on Friday, which may bring some relief from the oppressive heat currently affecting the area. Temperatures could drop by 10 to 20 degrees over the weekend, combined with increased cloud cover and higher probabilities for rain. Current forecasts indicate that highs will reach around 92 degrees on Monday, before falling into the low 80s by Friday.
Rain chances are expected to remain elevated through Thursday as the cold front approaches, with predicted highs of 86 degrees on Thursday, followed by a substantial drop to around 80 degrees on Friday. Thunderstorms will probably persist throughout the week, with isolated severe storms continuing to be a possibility.
It is essential to note that heat is recognized as the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures poses significant risks, especially for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during extreme heat and storm conditions, particularly when lightning is forecasted.
Summary of Key Forecast Details:
- Forecasted high temperatures nearing triple digits
- Scattered thunderstorms likely in the afternoon and evening
- Potential for severe thunderstorms with damaging wind gusts and heavy rainfall
- Localized rainfall totals could reach 3 to 4 inches in mountainous areas
- Cold front expected on Friday, providing a cooling relief
- Hydration and safety recommended during heat and storms
FAQ
What are the expected temperatures in Asheville this week?
Temperatures are expected to reach around 92 degrees on Monday, fall to the low 80s by Friday, and experience a drop of 10 to 20 degrees over the weekend.
What should residents do during the heat and storms?
Residents are urged to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities, especially during extreme heat and thunderstorms where lightning may be present.
When will the radar coverage be fully operational again?
The radar coverage from Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport is expected to be offline until July 31 due to scheduled maintenance and part replacement.
Key Features of the Forecast
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Heat Indices | Near triple digits, posing health risks. |
| Thunderstorm Activity | Scattered to numerous thunderstorms expected. |
| Primary Storm Threats | Damaging winds, heavy rain, flash flooding. |
| Rainfall Rates | Potential to exceed 2 inches per hour. |
| Cold Front Arrival | A cool down expected by Friday. |
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Additional Resources
- Severe Weather Threat Lingers as Carolinas Await Weekend Cooldown
- Wikipedia: Weather
- High Temperatures Expected in Asheville
- Google Search: Asheville weather
- Heat Index Set to Climb as Heat Wave Hits Asheville Area
- Google Scholar: Public health weather
- Tropical Disturbance Eyes Gulf as Heat/Storms Persist
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.
