Asheville Residents Celebrate End of Cold Snap

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

stay prepared, perhaps pencil in some extra indoor activities, and keep an eye on the forecast.

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