Power Outages Trending Downward in WNC, Extreme Cold Warning Issued

Western North Carolina faces a dual threat as power outages linger after the weekend storm, and an Extreme Cold Warning is issued for higher elevations. The combination of widespread outages and dangerous wind chills creates hazardous conditions for vulnerable populations across the region.

Power Outage Update

As of 3:43 p.m. on January 25, 2026, more than 19,000 customers in WNC remained without power. While Duke Energy reported a decrease in outages in Henderson County, thousands across the region are still affected. Outages have fluctuated throughout the day, with totals rising from approximately 7,800 at 11 a.m. to over 19,000 by late afternoon.

Transylvania County is experiencing the most significant outages, with over 10,000 customers affected. Other counties with substantial outages include Macon (3,539), Henderson (3,394), Haywood (2,568), and Buncombe (~1,166). Statewide, the number of customers without power exceeds 21,000.

Earlier in the day, Henderson County outages peaked at approximately 14,000 around 7 a.m., according to Duke Energy. While Duke Energy reported a decrease to 11,619 by 10:15 a.m., Ready NC data indicated a further decline to around 3,394 by 3:43 p.m.

Statewide outage totals range from 20,000 to 40,000, with PowerOutage.us reporting approximately 30,137 customers without power in its latest update. Duke Energy has deployed self-healing technology and buried lines in some areas to improve recovery times. However, icing and road conditions are slowing repair efforts.

Extreme Cold Warning

An Extreme Cold Warning is in effect for higher elevations in WNC. Dangerous wind chills are expected to persist following Winter Storm Fern and an Ice Storm Warning that lasted through approximately 1 p.m. on January 26.

Freezing temperatures are increasing the risk of black ice. Officials are urging people to avoid roads to allow utility crews and the NCDOT to work safely. Some facilities and offices are closed or delayed.

Given the ongoing power outages and the extreme cold, residents are encouraged to take precautions to stay safe. Real-time outage updates are available through Ready NC and Duke Energy.

iven the widespread power outages and the Extreme Cold Warning in effect for WNC, several emergency shelters and warming stations have been activated.

Below are the current open locations for the most impacted counties as of Monday morning:

Henderson County Shelters

• Athletics and Activities Center: 708 South Grove Street, Hendersonville, NC. This is the primary emergency shelter and is currently open 24/7 until conditions improve.

• Hands On Warming Station: Located in Hendersonville; specifically providing relief for those needing to escape the cold during daytime hours.

• Public Call Center: For those needing specific assistance or transportation to a shelter, Henderson County has opened a line at 828-435-2030.

Transylvania County Shelters

• Brevard Fire Department: Serving as the primary warming station through Tuesday, January 27.

• SAFE Brevard: 50 E Appletree St, Cedar Mountain. This location provides emergency shelter services (primarily for those in crisis, but available for refuge).

Other WNC County Shelters

• Buncombe County (Asheville/Swannanoa):

  • Hearts with Hands: 850 Warren Wilson Road, Swannanoa.

  • Erwin High School Gymnasium: 60 Lees Creek Road, Asheville.

What to Bring: If you are heading to a shelter, remember to pack medications, charging cords, warm blankets/pillows, toiletries, and any specific items for children or pets.

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