WNC -- January 31, 2026: Western North Carolina is bracing for dangerously low wind chill temperatures. Residents are encouraged to take precautions to protect themselves, their homes, and their pets from the extreme cold.
Weather Conditions
An Arctic blast is bringing sub-zero wind chills to the region. Cold Weather Advisories are in effect. Wind chills are expected to reach 10 to 15 degrees below zero, or even lower. This creates a risk of frostbite and hypothermia if skin is exposed.
Western North Carolina is currently weathering a severe Arctic blast as a major winter storm moves through the region. Wind chills are holding in the minus 5°F range region-wide, with higher elevations plunging as low as minus 20°F overnight into Sunday. This current system represents the most intense surge of cold air so far, with an additional wave of Arctic reinforcement expected midweek and another potential cold intrusion forecast for next weekend. Residents should remain vigilant, as these sub-zero wind chills create an immediate risk of frostbite on exposed skin and dangerous conditions for both pets and livestock.
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