The City of Asheville is preparing for a winter weather event expected this weekend. Various city departments are coordinating efforts to ensure public safety, maintain services, and respond quickly to any weather-related disruptions. The city’s Emergency Operation Plan has been activated in anticipation of the storm.
Public Works crews will start 24-hour operations on Friday morning to manage snow and ice on roadways. Measures include renting extra equipment, increasing staff levels, and pre-positioning resources for rapid response. Residents are reminded not to park on city streets after 5 p.m. on Friday, January 23. City-owned parking garages will be open free of charge starting at that time to provide alternative parking options and allow plows better access.
The Water Resources department is also making preparations by filling water distribution tanks before the storm and ensuring that maintenance trucks are ready and fully fueled. Duty officers have been doubled to respond quickly to possible water leaks or main breaks. Residents are advised to let faucets drip during freezing temperatures to prevent pipes from freezing or bursting. Outages can be reported by calling Customer Service at (828) 251-1122.
Both the Asheville Fire Department (AFD) and Asheville Police Department (APD) have increased staffing ahead of the forecasted weather. Emergency vehicles are being equipped with chains and cables for safer travel in winter conditions, and backup communication plans have been confirmed in case regular systems fail.
Community members can contribute to safety by avoiding unnecessary travel during hazardous weather, moving their vehicles off roads after 5 p.m. Friday, dripping faucets, insulating exposed pipes, checking on neighbors—especially seniors or those with limited mobility—and preparing emergency kits with essentials such as food, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries.
City officials encourage residents to stay updated by following City of Asheville announcements and monitoring local weather reports. Crews will continue tracking conditions throughout the weekend and provide further updates as necessary.
