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Asheville Prepares for Record-Breaking Heat and Severe Weather

Scenic view of Asheville under changing weather conditions.

News Summary

Asheville is set to experience a record-breaking heat wave with temperatures reaching 84 degrees, surpassing the previous record of 83 degrees. A strong cold front will bring storms, including severe thunderstorms and potential tornadoes, leading to significant changes in weather by Monday. Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared as the threat of severe weather looms, particularly in Upstate South Carolina where storm damage has already been reported.

Asheville is bracing for a potential record-breaking heat wave this weekend, with temperatures expected to soar to 84 degrees on April 4, edging past the existing record high of 83 degrees set in 1999. Following this unseasonably warm spell, a strong cold front is anticipated to sweep through the region on Sunday, bringing significant weather changes, including rain, thunderstorms, and a drastic drop in temperatures by Monday.

The forecast for the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport indicates a high of 86 degrees, nearing its record of 88 degrees for the same date. This pattern of warmer temperatures is expected to persist through Saturday, aided by brisk southwesterly winds. As residents enjoy the warm weather, they are advised to remain vigilant for the rapidly approaching cold front that is likely to change the weather landscape significantly.

By Sunday, the temperature is forecasted to decrease markedly as the cold front arrives. Meanwhile, Monday has been declared a Weather Warn Day, indicating the potential for severe thunderstorms, particularly in Upstate South Carolina where there are heightened risks of severe weather conditions. Wind gusts, large hail, and isolated tornadoes are all possibilities as storms develop.

Severe Thunderstorm Warnings have already been issued for several counties in Western North Carolina, notably Buncombe, Henderson, and Rutherford counties. The storms have already shown their strength, with reported incidents of hail measuring up to 2.50 inches in diameter in Northern Buncombe County. Residents in these affected areas should prepare for potential damages, as downed trees and heavy winds have blocked traffic on major routes including Interstate 40.

To further emphasize the severity of the situation, reports indicate that more than 30 instances of storm damage have been documented in Upstate South Carolina. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported; however, property damage from the storms has been extensive. Residents are urged to remain cautious, particularly as forecasts suggest that showers and thunderstorms could persist into Thursday morning, raising concerns about flooding risks due to the possibility of heavy rains.

Although recent precipitation has alleviated some wildfire risks in western North Carolina, there is a potential for the wildfire risk to rise again to moderate levels on the following dry day, Tuesday. As conditions stabilize by Thursday afternoon, the weather is expected to improve with clearing skies and temperatures settling back into the 70s and 80s.

Furthermore, a Tornado Watch is currently in effect for Cherokee and Clay counties until 2 p.m. on Thursday, underscoring the seriousness of the ongoing weather changes. Residents should stay informed and prepared, as safety remains the top priority amid unpredictable weather conditions.

As Asheville and surrounding areas prepare for this potentially volatile weather, authorities encourage residents to stay updated on forecasts and heed any warnings issued by weather officials. Given the drastic temperature shifts and impending storm activity, taking appropriate precautions will be vital for ensuring safety in the coming days.