The weather in the Hendersonville and Brevard areas is deteriorating

Weather Alerts for Western NC

There are currently many warnings and alerts active regarding the weather in WNC.

Flood warning – A Flash Flood Warning is in effect for WNC (Avery, Buncombe, Burke Mountains, Caldwell Mountains, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Macon, Madison, McDowell Mountains, Mitchell, Northern Jackson, Polk Mountains, Rutherford Mountains, Southern Jackson, Swain, Transylvania Counties and Yancey). The warning warns of excessive runoff that could lead to “significant and damaging” flooding of rivers and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. This may include areas not normally affected by flooding. The warning also noted the possibility of widespread landslides in areas with steeper terrain and large, damaging debris flows. The French Broad and Swannanoa Rivers were mentioned as areas where severe flooding could occur.

Local Hurricane Statement – The NWS issued a hurricane warning limited to the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia. The warning included references to “potentially catastrophic flash flooding and major flooding of the main river,” wind gusts of up to 60-70 mph and up to 80 mph over higher ridges.

In a discussion of area forecasts from the NWS, forecasters said Helene is expected to make landfall over the Florida Panhandle late today. The storm will move quickly north, bringing persistent heavy rainfall, significant flooding and strong winds tonight into Friday morning. Expect a quieter weekend with temperatures near seasonal normal.