Asheville, North Carolina, August 24, 2025
News Summary
Hurricane Francine is set to impact western North Carolina this Friday, leading high school football teams to reschedule games from Friday to Thursday. The National Weather Service warns of heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Asheville faces a 60% chance of rain, which could significantly disrupt local businesses and tourism. Governor Roy Cooper has requested federal assistance for affected areas as communities prepare for potential economic fallout and work on recovery efforts.
Asheville, North Carolina – Hurricane Francine is expected to bring severe weather to western North Carolina on Friday, prompting several high school football teams to alter their schedules to avoid the worst of the storm. Many teams have moved their games from Friday to Thursday in anticipation of inclement weather.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings ahead of the approaching hurricane, forecasting showers across North Carolina on Friday, particularly in the western region. Asheville is predicted to receive a 60% chance of rain, while Boone and Charlotte have a 50% chance. Rainfall amounts are expected to decrease as one moves eastward, with a 30% chance of precipitation in Raleigh, Fayetteville, and Wilmington.
In light of the severe weather forecast, HighSchoolOT is actively tracking schedule changes for Week 4 of the high school football season. Any updates or reports of schedule alterations can be communicated to local tracking services. Alongside these changes, the National Weather Service has highlighted a potential for significant flooding due to the heavy rainfall associated with Hurricane Francine.
Hurricane Francine follows the devastating path of Hurricane Helene, which already caused floods and substantial damage across North Carolina. Reports have surfaced detailing extensive damage to local businesses, such as the Asheville Tea Company, which was severely affected by flooding from the Swannanoa River. The floodwaters rose dramatically, leading to destruction in not just businesses but also homes in nearby areas.
The ongoing storm’s economic repercussions are expected to be severe, particularly affecting tourism in the region at a crucial time during the fall season as several attractions remain closed. One of the iconic sites, Asheville’s historic Biltmore Estate, has reported damage and will be closed indefinitely for repairs. Furthermore, significant road damage and closures in and around Asheville complicate recovery efforts and access for residents.
Statewide, the damage and economic losses from the storms are projected to exceed $160 billion, affecting several states, including North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio. In the River Arts District of Asheville alone, an estimated 70%-80% of arts venues were compromised due to flooding, which has deeply impacted hundreds of local artists.
The community is focusing on rebuilding efforts and seeking financial aid to support those affected by the storms. Governor Roy Cooper has requested federal assistance for 38 counties in North Carolina, underscoring the extensive impact the storms have had. Meanwhile, local authorities are advising residents to follow emergency services’ guidance as travel disruptions due to risks of flooding and mudslides are anticipated.
A flash flood emergency has been declared in numerous areas, with rainfall totals in certain locations reaching historical levels typically seen during the catastrophic flood of 1916. Local emergency services have been actively responding, conducting numerous rescues in flood-stricken areas as communities rally to recover. Various local organizations are now accepting donations to assist individuals and businesses impacted by the storm.
FAQ Section
What is the impact of Hurricane Francine on high school football schedules?
Hurricane Francine has led several high school football teams in western North Carolina to move their games from Friday to Thursday to avoid severe weather conditions.
What weather conditions are expected in North Carolina due to Hurricane Francine?
The National Weather Service predicts heavy rainfall across North Carolina, especially in the western region, with chances of rain reaching up to 60% in Asheville.
How has Hurricane Francine affected local businesses?
Local businesses, particularly those near the Swannanoa River, have experienced significant damage due to flooding, affecting operations and local economies.
What actions are authorities taking in response to the storm?
Authorities have declared a flash flood emergency, have requested federal assistance for affected counties, and are working on rescue operations to aid flood victims.
Key Features of Hurricane Francine Impact
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Rainfall | 60% chance in Asheville, 50% in Boone and Charlotte, 30% in eastern NC |
| High School Football Schedule Changes | Games moved from Friday to Thursday |
| Economic Impact | Projected damages could exceed $160 billion |
| Local Business Damage | 70%-80% of arts buildings in Asheville’s River Arts District compromised |
| Emergency Response | Flash flood emergencies declared, numerous rescues conducted |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hurricane Helene Causes Major Flooding in Asheville
Additional Resources
- HighSchoolOT: Hurricane Francine’s Impact on Football Schedules
- Bleacher Report: Kentucky Derby Weather Forecast
- Charlotte Observer: Weather Impact in North Carolina
- WRAL: Flooding and Mudslide Risks in Western NC
- 828 News Now: Road Closures Due to Hurricane Helene
- Wikipedia: Hurricane
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.
