Asheville Reporter

As changes in climate continue to impact local weather patterns, the Asheville region anticipates more frequent and intense weather events. Actions taken individually and as a community can help build resilience during emergency events and support during "blue skies" times.

Blue-skies actions refer to proactive measures undertaken while conditions are favorable. These actions help create cohesive, resilient communities and establish critical social networks that facilitate effective responses during climate disasters. Examples of such activities include hosting neighborhood potlucks or climate conversations, getting to know neighbors, and connecting vulnerable community members with support systems.

In Asheville, primary climate risks include flooding, wildfires, landslides, and extreme temperatures, often resulting in power outages. Simple household maintenance activities can mitigate these risks. For instance:

- Clearing drains of debris before heavy rainfall helps prevent flooding.

- Regularly cleaning storm drains and gutters ensures proper water flow.

- Removing dry debris near households or fuel tanks reduces wildfire risk.

- Installing slope-stabilizing plantings on steep embankments prevents erosion.

- Keeping shelf-stable food and water for 72 hours ensures sustenance during emergencies.

- Reducing energy consumption through air drying clothes or weatherizing homes enhances resilience.

Through blue skies community and household actions, alongside comprehensive city-led emergency response systems, Asheville aims to improve its baseline for connection and preparedness. This approach seeks to lessen the impacts of climate risks, ensure swift recovery, and rebuild efficiently after disruptions.

Residents are encouraged to use the Climate Justice Data Map to understand neighborhood-specific climate risks by searching their addresses. This tool provides insights into Climate Justice Scores and factors affecting the community's capacity for mitigation, adaptation, and resilience.

Elevate AVL is a community-led initiative supported by the City of Asheville that promotes neighborhood connections and climate conversations while offering accessible action ideas for enhancing individual, household, and community resilience.