Flood Watch and Wind Advisory in Effect for Tuesday, January 09, 2024

OVERNIGHT OUTLOOK 

1.10am on Tuesday, 01-09-2024

A Flood Watch and Wind Advisory is effect for Macon County due to the storm system that will be making its way through the region over the next day or so. The map included with this post shows the wind gusts as of 1am, this morning.

SCHOOL DELAYS

Schools in Macon, Swain, Jackson, Haywood, and Graham Counties will be operating on a two-hour delay this morning (01-09-2024).

FLOOD WATCH 

.A strong low pressure system moving from the Plains overnight to the Midwest on Tuesday will permit abundant Gulf moisture to stream across the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia during the Flood Watch period. The heavy rainfall will spread across the region during the early morning hours, maximize atop the area Tuesday morning through early afternoon, and then move east through Tuesday evening. With rivers and streams still somewhat elevated from previous heavy rainfall, flooding is expected to develop across the region.

...FLOOD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT EST TONIGHT THROUGH TUESDAY EVENING...

* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible.

* WHERE...Portions of northeast Georgia, including the following areas, Habersham, Rabun and Stephens; western North Carolina, including the following areas, Polk, Rutherford, Henderson, Macon, Southern Jackson and Transylvania; and Upstate South Carolina, including the following areas, Central Greenville, Oconee, Pickens, Greenville Mountains, and Northern Spartanburg Counties.

* WHEN...From midnight EST tonight through Tuesday evening.

* IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - A powerful low pressure system will spread heavy rain across the region overnight through Tuesday. Rainfall amounts of 3 to 5 inches are expected throughout, while locations in the southern-most parts of the North Carolina mountains near the South Carolina border could see 6 inches. The threat of flash flooding has increased given the recent rainfall in this area. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Flood Watch for flash flooding means there is a potential for rapid onset flooding based on current forecasts. Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation and may impact areas that do not typically flood. Please monitor the latest forecasts and be prepared to take action quickly should Flash Flood Warnings be issued.

Rainfall of more than five inches in similar storms has been associated with an increased risk of landslides and rockslides. If you live on a mountainside or in a cove at the base of a mountain, especially near a stream, be ready to leave in advance of the storm or as quickly as possible should rising water, moving earth, or rocks threaten. Consider postponing travel along mountain roads during periods of heavy rainfall.

WIND ADVISORY

...WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM EST TUESDAY...

* WHAT...Southeast winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected.

* WHERE...In Georgia, Habersham and Rabun Counties. In North Carolina, Buncombe, Henderson, Macon, Southern Jackson, and Transylvania Counties.

* WHEN...Until 7 PM EST Tuesday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.

Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite source of weather information for the latest updates.

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Overnight Weather Briefing for Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Above is a graphic showing winds that are forecast to come out of the northwest and freezing temperatures spilling into the southeast overnight tonight and into tomorrow. The time represented is the forecast for 4am Thursday morning (04-01-2021).

Here is a weather briefing for the overnight period and tomorrow.

A strong cold front will move off the Carolina coast early Thursday. Unseasonably cold high pressure will build in behind the front tonight and settle over the region for the rest of the week. Expect an upper-level ridge to build over the region from Sunday into next week, continuing dry, but warmer weather. The next rain maker will approach our region in the middle of next week.


Weather Sponsor



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your next project.


Franklin Area

Overnight

A 50 percent chance of showers, mainly before midnight. Cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with lows around freezing. Wind chills will be in the upper 40s at 9pm and drop to the lower 20s by 6am. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Thursday

Sunny, with highs in the mid-40s. Wind chills will peak in the mid-30s in the late afternoon. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph, peaking between noon and 3pm.

Thursday Night

Mostly clear, with lows in the lower 20s. Wind chills will drop to the upper teens by daybreak. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Highlands Plateau

Overnight

A chance of rain showers, possibly mixing with snow after midnight, then gradually ending. Patchy fog before 1am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, then gradual clearing toward daybreak, with lows in the mid-20s. Wind chills will be around 40 at 9pm and drop to the low-to-mid teens around 6am. Winds out of the west 5 to 15 mph increasing and shifting to come out of the northwest 15 to 25 mph before midnight. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph, especially after midnight. The chance of precipitation is 50%. Little or no snow accumulation expected.

Thursday (wind chills will be below freezing all day)

Sunny, with highs in the mid-30s. Wind chills will climb from the low-to-mid teens in the morning to the mid-20s by 3pm, the drop to near 20 at 6pm. Winds out of the northwest 20 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph.

Thursday Night (wind chills below 20 all night)

Mostly clear, with lows around 20. Wind chills will start out around 20 at 6pm and drop to around 10 by 6am. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Otto area

Overnight

A 50 percent chance of showers before midnight. Mostly cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with lows around freezing. Wind chills will start out in the lower 40s around 9pm and drop to the lower 20s by 6am. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Thursday

Sunny, with highs in the mid-40s. Wind chills will start out in the lower 20s at 6am and increase to the mid-30s around 4pm and then drop to around 30 by 6pm. Winds out of the northwest 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph, peaking between noon and 6pm.

Thursday Night

Mostly clear, with lows in the lower 20s. Wind chills around 30 at 6p, then drop to the mid-teens by 6am. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Nantahala area

Showers likely before midnight, then a slight chance of rain. Cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with lows around 30. Winds chill around 40 at 9am dropping to around 20 by 6am. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. The chance of precipitation is 60%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with highs near 40. Wind chills start out around 20 at 6am increasing to around 30 by 4pm, then dropping down to the mid-20s at 6pm. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with lows in the lower 20s. Wind chills in the mid-20s at 6pm, then dropping to the mid-teens at 6am. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Hazardous Weather

A wind field associated with a front and a steep pressure gradient from a high pressure passing by to our north overnight and through the day tomorrow. There is also a chance of minor snow showers above 3500 feet around midnight, but the high winds will keep any of it from accumulating in most areas. The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory for tomorrow for anticipated high winds. Tree limbs may fall, some of the on powerlines and any lawn furniture you leave out may get blown around.

Wind Advisory
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
259 PM EDT Wed Mar 31 2021

...WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO 2 PM EDT THURSDAY...

* WHAT...Northwest winds 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 45 mph expected.

* WHERE...Portions of upstate South Carolina, northeast Georgia and western North Carolina.

* WHEN...From 10 PM this evening to 2 PM EDT Thursday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Much colder air will move into the region behind a strong cold front this evening. Precipitation may change to light snow and/or light freezing rain at elevations above 5000 feet by midnight. No significant ice accumulation is expected, but some of the highest elevations of the northern mountains could get up to one inch of snow before it tapers off Thursday morning.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.


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Published at 8:55pm on Wednesday, March 31, 2021

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Daily Weather Briefing for Wednesday, March 6, 2019

OUTDOOR BURNING NOT RECOMMENDED TODAY

A Wind Advisory is in effect for Macon County until 10 am today and relative humidity levels will be below 30% for most of the day and below 20% between noon and 6 pm and winds will generally be brisk out of the northwest this morning and between 5 and 10 mph this afternoon with occasional gusts in the 20 mph range, so outdoor burning is not recommended. 

SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS

Jackson County Schools are on a delayed schedule

Smoky Mountain District is on a 2-hour delay.
Blue Ridge is on a 2.5-hour delay (B-Schedule).

Source:


Local News Brief

The Franklin Town Council held their regular meeting for March 2019 on Monday night. Video has been posted on the blog. [LINK]

The Nikwasi Initiative has proposed to take ownership of the Nikwasi Mound from the Town of Franklin. Video of that is also online. [LINK]

Outlook

A broad area of dry Canadian high pressure will remain over our region through Thursday, before drifting out over the Atlantic. A vigorous cold front will then approach the forecast area from the west early Sunday, bringing another round of widespread precipitation to the county. High pressure will spread back over the region in the front`s wake.


THREE DAY GFS FORECAST
This animated image shows a forecast of precipitation, air pressure and thickness level (cold-air damming) for three days in six-hour increments.
Green, Yellow, and Red indicate rain. Orange and Purple Indicate Freezing Rain or other freezing precipitation. Blue indicates snow.

---

WEATHER SPONSOR



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your with your next project.

---

Weather Hazards

A Wind Advisory is in effect for Macon County until 10 am today and relative humidity levels will be below 30% for most of the day and below 20% between noon and 6 pm, so outdoor burning is not recommended.

Wind Chill Advisory
URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
644 PM EST Tue Mar 5 2019

...BITTERLY COLD WIND CHILLS TONIGHT...

A wind chill advisory is in effect in Macon County, mainly for locations over 3500 feet. If you plan on being out and about this morning, bundle up because it is cold and a little windy below 3500 feet, too.


...WIND CHILL ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 AM EST WEDNESDAY ABOVE 3500 FEET...

* WHAT...Very cold wind chills as low as minus 15 are expected.

* WHERE...Above 3500 feet in the North Carolina mountains.

* WHEN...Until 10 AM EST Wednesday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The cold wind chills could result in hypothermia if precautions are not taken.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Chill Advisory means that cold air and the wind will combine to create low wind chills. Frostbite and hypothermia can occur if precautions are not taken. Make sure you wear a hat and gloves.

---

CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.

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If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

---

WEATHER FORECAST MAPS

Forecast maps for 7 am, 1 pm, and 7 pm.
[click on any image in this article to enlarge]

---

FRANKLIN AREA FORECAST

Today

Sunny, with a high in the lower 40s. Winds out of the northwest around 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low in the lower 20s. Winds out of the northwest around 5 mph becoming calm before midnight.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 50. Calm winds in the morning then from rising to come out of the southwest around 6 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday Night

A 30 percent chance of rain, mainly after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around freezing. Light winds out of the south.

Friday

Rain likely, mainly after 10am. Cloudy, with a high near 50. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Friday Night

A 40 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low in the lower 40s.

---

OTTO AREA FORECAST

Today

Sunny, with a high near 45. Winds out of the northwest around 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low in the lower 20s. Winds out of the northwest wind around 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 50. Calm winds in the morning then winds out of the southwest 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday Night

A 30 percent chance of rain, mainly after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35. Light winds out of the south.

Friday

Rain likely, mainly after 9am. Cloudy, with a high near 50. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Friday Night

A 40 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low in the mid-to-low 40s.

---

HIGHLANDS PLATEAU FORECAST

Today

Sunny, with a high near 35. Wind chill values as low as -1 in the early morning and in the 20s in the afternoon. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 25. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high in the low-to-mid 40s. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph in the morning and shifting to come out of the southwest in the afternoon.

Thursday Night

A 20 percent chance of rain after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around freezing. Winds out of the southwest 5 to 10 mph.

Friday

Rain likely, mainly after 10am. Cloudy, with a high near 45. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Friday Night

A 40 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40.

---

NANTAHALA AREA FORECAST


Today

Sunny, with a high near 35. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low in the lower 20s. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 45. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph in the morning shifting to come out of the southwest in the afternoon.

Thursday Night

A 30 percent chance of rain, mainly after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35. Winds out of the south 5 to 10 mph.

Friday

Rain. Highs in the mid-to-upper 40s. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Friday Night

A 50 percent chance of rain. Cloudy, with a low around 40.

---

Macon County Almanac for March 06, 2019

Highest Temperature 75°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station in 1961
Lowest Temperature 1°F in Highlands in 1901
Greatest Rainfall 5.19 inches in Nantahala in 1963
Greatest Snowfall 5.5 inches in Highlands in 1969


Weather Extremes for Macon County for the month of March
Data available from 1873 to 2018

Highest Temperature 86°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 03-15-1967
Lowest Temperature -7°F in Highlands on 03-07-1899
Greatest Rainfall 6.43 inches in Highlands on 03-29-1898
Greatest Snowfall 25.5 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 03-13-1993

---

Published at 3:03 am on March 06, 2019 

Edited to add a statement about fire danger at 3:12am

Read More

Daily Weather Briefing for Monday, February 25, 2019

News Brief

Jackson County Schools for Monday, February 25th, 2019 are on a delayed schedule. The Smoky Mountain District is delayed for two hours and the Blue Ridge District is delayed for 2.5 hours.



A prolonged period of multiple rain events led to minor flooding in Macon County and a wind event exacerbated the situation, causing multiple trees to fall, some of them on power lines, knocking out power to hundreds of Maconians and tens of thousands across the mountains this past weekend.

There were numerous slides and trees down in Jackson County over the weekend and at least two of the blocked portion of US-74, one near Thomas Cove Road and another on Balsam Mountain. Another slide in Haywood County has resulted in I-40 being closed for a couple of weeks while debris is removed. There were several smaller slides and weather-related incidents that briefly closed some roads in Macon County. [LINK]




Outlook

Dry Canadian high pressure will continue to spread over the region today and linger through Tuesday. Deeper moisture will return on Wednesday and linger into the weekend. Another vigorous cold front may approach the forecast area from the west during the latter part of the weekend.

DAY SPONSOR

Carrion Tree Service is underwriting Macon Media for today. they are a fully licensed and insured tree service, specializing in dangerous tree removal, view clearing, pruning, and crane services with a 24 Hour emergency response.

Their phone number is 371-4718.

They can handle all your tree removal needs in good or bad weather.

THREE DAY GFS FORECAST
This animated image shows a forecast of precipitation, air pressure and thickness level (cold-air damming) for three days in six-hour increments.
Green, Yellow, and Red indicate rain. Orange and Purple Indicate Freezing Rain or other freezing precipitation. Blue indicates snow.

---

WEATHER SPONSOR



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your with your next project.

---

Weather Hazards

Macon County will be under a Wind Advisory until daybreak. Winds in the higher elevations and the Highlands Plateau may take until midmorning to die down. A Flood Advisory is also in effect until 10:15 am along the Little Tennessee River in Otto near Riverside Road. Water levels along the stretch of the Little Tennessee in Macon County will continue to decrease over the next several days. Copies of the Flood and Wind Advisories are posted below for your convenience.

Flood Advisory
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
1018 PM EST SUN FEB 24 2019

The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued a

* Flood Advisory for...
South central Macon County in western North Carolina...

* Until 1015 AM EST Monday.



* At 1013 PM EST, the stream gauge on the Little Tennessee River at Otto indicated the river remained near bankfull. Although stream levels will remain high, it is not expected to return to flood stage and should gradually recede over the next several hours.

* Some locations that will experience flooding include...
Otto.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Only when it is safe to do so, please report floodwaters or landslides flowing over roads or threatening property to the National Weather Service by calling toll-free, 1, 800, 2 6 7, 8 1 0 1, by posting on our Facebook page, or via Twitter using hashtag NWSGSP. Your message should describe the event and the specific location where it occurred, including roadways, nearby cross streets, stream names, and other landmarks.

Wind Advisory
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
234 AM EST Mon Feb 25 2019

...VERY WINDY CONDITIONS TO CONTINUE THIS MORNING ACROSS THE MOUNTAINS OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA...

.Gusty northwest winds will continue across the North Carolina mountains this morning before slowly diminishing through the remainder of the day. The saturated soil conditions may contribute to some trees getting toppled by the strong winds.


...WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 AM EST THIS MORNING...

* LOCATIONS...The central and southern mountains of western North Carolina.

* HAZARDS...Very windy conditions.

* TIMING...Through daybreak.

* WINDS...Northwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts of 40 to 50 mph at times, especially along the higher ridges.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Advisory means that winds of 35 mph are expected. Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.

Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite source of weather information for the latest updates. Additional details can be found at www.weather.gov/gsp.

---

CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.

Patreon Subscriber History May 2014 to Present



Become a Patron!
If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

---

WEATHER FORECAST MAPS

Forecast maps for 7 am, 1 pm, and 7 pm.
[click on any image in this article to enlarge]

---

FRANKLIN AREA FORECAST

Today

Sunny, with a high near 55. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 30. Calm winds.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high near 60. Calm winds in the morning, then out of the southwest around 6 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night

A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. Light winds out of the south.

Wednesday

A 30 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 60.

Wednesday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45.

---

OTTO AREA FORECAST

Today [Flood Advisory Until 10:15am]

Sunny, with a high in the mid-to-upper 50s. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around freezing. Calm winds.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high near 60. Calm winds in the morning, then winds from the southwest around 6 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night

A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. Winds out of the south around 5 mph becoming calm before midnight.

Wednesday

A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high in the upper 50s.

Wednesday Night

A chance of showers before 8pm, then a chance of showers after 5am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

---

HIGHLANDS PLATEAU FORECAST

Today

Sunny, with a high near 50. Winds out of the northwest 15 to 25 mph in the morning then decreasing to 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph before midmorning.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around freezing. Calm winds rising to come out of the southwest around 6 mph after midnight.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high in the lower 50s. Winds out of the southwest 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday Night

A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low in the upper 30s. Winds out of the southwest around 6 mph.

Wednesday

A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 50.

Wednesday Night

A 30 percent chance of showers after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low in the lower 40s.

---

NANTAHALA AREA FORECAST


Today

Sunny, with a high near 50. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 30. Calm winds rising to come out of the south around 5 mph after midnight.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high near 55. Winds out of the southwest around 6 mph.

Tuesday Night

A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40. Winds out of the south 3 to 5 mph.

Wednesday

A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55.

Wednesday Night

A 30 percent chance of showers before 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45.

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Macon County Almanac for February 25, 2019

Highest Temperature 77°F in Highlands in 1930
Lowest Temperature -5°F in Highlands in 1967
Greatest Rainfall 6.20 inches in Franklin in 1875
Greatest Snowfall 8.0 inches in Highlands in 1894

Weather Extremes for Macon County for February
Data available from 1873 to 2018

Highest Temperature 79°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-28-1996
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on 02-13-1899
Greatest Rainfall 6.37 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-13-1966
Greatest Snowfall 15.0 inches in Highlands on 02-14-1912

Weather Extremes for Macon County for February
Data available from 1873 to 2018

Highest Temperature 79°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-28-1996
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on 02-13-1899
Greatest Rainfall 6.37 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-13-1966
Greatest Snowfall 15.0 inches in Highlands on 02-14-1912

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Published at 3:50 am on February 25, 2019

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Daily Weather Briefing for Sunday, February 24, 2019

Outlook

A cold front will move rapidly east across the region this morning, ushering in drier but windy conditions the rest of the day through tonight. Dry high pressure will dominate the southeast on Monday and Tuesday. The weather pattern will become a bit more unsettled Wednesday through Friday, but with fairly uncertain moisture return into the region that will keep shower chances minimal. Another vigorous cold front may reach the area from the west toward next weekend.

THREE DAY GFS FORECAST
This animated image shows a forecast of precipitation, air pressure and thickness level (cold-air damming) for three days in six-hour increments.
Green, Yellow, and Red indicate rain. Orange and Purple Indicate Freezing Rain or other freezing precipitation. Blue indicates snow.

---

WEATHER SPONSOR



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your with your next project.

---

Weather Hazards

Macon County will be under a Wind Advisory today and tonight as high winds from a strong cold front crosses the region. A Flood Advisory is also in effect until 7 am along the Little Tennessee River in Otto near Riverside Road. Water levels along the stretch of the Little Tennessee in Macon County will continue to decrease over the next several days. A Flood Watch is in effect in the whole county. Copies of each of these are posted below for your convenience.

Wind Advisory
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
358 AM EST Sun Feb 24 2019

...VERY WINDY CONDITIONS ACROSS MOST OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA THROUGH TONIGHT...

.Strong south to southwest winds will continue across the higher elevations of the North Carolina mountains this morning ahead of an approaching, strong cold front. Winds will turn west then northwest by late morning behind the passing cold front, increasing in strength in the cold air. Frequent brisk gusts are possible into tonight. Trees rooted in soils saturated by recent rainfall could be toppled by these strong winds.



...WIND ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 AM EST MONDAY...

* LOCATIONS...The central and southern mountains of western North Carolina.

* HAZARDS...Very windy conditions.

* TIMING...High elevations already are experiencing strong southerly winds. By mid-morning, as winds turn out of the west to northwest, the threat of gusty winds will extend into the lower elevations.

* WINDS...West 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.

* IMPACTS...Strong winds may blow down limbs, trees, and power lines. Scattered power outages are expected.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Advisory means that winds of 35 mph are expected. Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.

Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite source of weather information for the latest updates. Additional details can be found at www.weather.gov/gsp.




Flood Advisory
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
255 AM EST SUN FEB 24 2019


Gauge at Riverside at 4:40am on 02-24-2019

The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has extended the

* Flood Advisory for...
South central Macon County in western North Carolina...

* Until 915 AM EST Sunday.

* At 249 AM EST, the stream gauge on the Little Tennessee River at Otto indicated was below flood stage, however additional rainfall during the past few hours has caused water levels to rise again. Although water levels are expected to stay below flood stage, they will likely remain above action stage through the early morning hours.

* Some locations that will experience flooding include...
Otto.


PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Flood Advisory means river or stream flows are elevated, or ponding of water in urban or other areas is occurring or is imminent.

Only when it is safe to do so, please report floodwaters or landslides flowing over roads or threatening property to the National Weather Service by calling toll-free, 1, 800, 2 6 7, 8 1 0 1, by posting on our Facebook page, or via Twitter using hashtag NWSGSP. Your message should describe the event and the specific location where it occurred, including roadways, nearby cross streets, stream names, and other landmarks.


Flood Watch
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
400 AM EST Sun Feb 24 2019

...LOCALLY HEAVY RAIN EXPECTED TO RESULT IN ADDITIONAL FLOODING FOR PARTS OF THE REGION...

.Rainfall this morning will maintain saturated soils and promote runoff into creeks and rivers that are already running high from recent heavy rainfall. This could exacerbate existing flooding, and also lead to new flooding in a few areas.


...FLOOD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON EST TODAY...

The Flood Watch continues for

* portions of northeast Georgia, North Carolina, and upstate South Carolina,

* until noon EST today

* Many area rivers have already risen out of their banks or have caused minor flooding. Additional rainfall this morning will cause rivers to keep rising. This will result in flooding on some rivers where it may not have occurred recently, and in poorly drained areas away from rivers.

* Roads may cover with water in some areas, becoming impassable. Rivers may rise into campgrounds, parks, and other recreational sites along their banks.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts.

You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.

---

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If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

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---

WEATHER FORECAST MAPS

Forecast maps for 7 am, 1 pm, and 7 pm.
[click on any image in this article to enlarge]

---

FRANKLIN AREA FORECAST

Today

Showers likely before 7am, then a slight chance of rain between 7am and 8am. Mostly cloudy through midmorning, then gradual clearing, with a high in the mid-to-upper 50s. Winds out of the south 5 to 10 mph shifting to come out of the northwest 15 to 20 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph in the lower elevations and 45 to 50 mph in the higher elevations. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Tonight

Clear, with a low around 30. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph in the lower elevations and 50 mph in the higher elevations.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 55. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 30. Calm winds.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high near 60.

Tuesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low in the mid-to-upper 30s.

---

OTTO AREA FORECAST

Today

Showers likely before 7am, then a slight chance of rain between 7am and 8am. Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy through midmorning, then gradual clearing, with a high in the upper 50s. Winds out of the southwest 5 to 15 mph shifting to come out of the northwest 15 to 20 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 40 to 50 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Tonight

Clear, with a low around 30. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 40 to 50 mph.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 55. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around freezing. Calm winds.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high near 60.

Tuesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low in the upper 30s.

---

HIGHLANDS PLATEAU FORECAST

Today

Showers, mainly before 7am. The rain could be heavy at times. Widespread fog, mainly before 7am. Temperature falling to around 40 by 5pm. Winds out of the northwest 15 to 25 mph increasing to 25 to 30 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 50 to 60 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Tonight

Clear, with a low in the upper 20s. Winds out of the northwest 25 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 50 to 60 mph.

Monday

Sunny, with a high in the upper 40s. Winds out of the northwest 15 to 25 mph decreasing to 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 40 in the morning and then decreasing to 20 mph in the afternoon.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 30. West wind 3 to 6 mph.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high near 55.

Tuesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.

---

NANTAHALA AREA FORECAST


Today

A 30 percent chance of showers before 7am. Areas of fog before 7am. Otherwise, partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high in the lower 50s. Winds out of the southwest 15 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph in the lower elevations and around 50 to 60 mph in the higher elevations. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Tonight

Clear, with a low in the upper 20s. Winds chill values in the single digits or lower at times. Winds out of the northwest 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph in the lower elevations and 50 to 60 mph in the higher elevations.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 50. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 30. Light winds out of the southwest.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high in the upper 50s.

Tuesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low in the upper 30s.

---

Macon County Almanac for February 24, 2019

Highest Temperature 75°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station in 1996
Lowest Temperature 3°F in Highlands in 1989
Greatest Rainfall 2.42 inches in Nantahala in 1975
Greatest Snowfall 5.2 inches in Highlands in 2015

Weather Extremes for Macon County for February
Data available from 1873 to 2018

Highest Temperature 79°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-28-1996
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on 02-13-1899
Greatest Rainfall 6.37 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-13-1966
Greatest Snowfall 15.0 inches in Highlands on 02-14-1912

Weather Extremes for Macon County for February
Data available from 1873 to 2018

Highest Temperature 79°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-28-1996
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on 02-13-1899
Greatest Rainfall 6.37 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-13-1966
Greatest Snowfall 15.0 inches in Highlands on 02-14-1912

---

Published at 4:44 am on February 24, 2019

Read More

Daily Weather Briefing for Saturday, February 23, 2019 Flood Advisories, Warnings, and Wind Advisories Issued for Macon County

It's a busy weather weekend for Macon County, so this briefing is not as brief as usual.

Outlook

The wet pattern will continue today into tonight before a robust cold front finally moves through the region late tonight through Sunday morning. The early part of next week should be dominated by dry high pressure. A cold front may move through the region from the northwest on Wednesday, but moisture with this front remains highly uncertain. Better moisture could arrive toward next weekend.

THREE DAY GFS FORECAST
This animated image shows a forecast of precipitation, air pressure and thickness level (cold-air damming) for three days in six-hour increments.
Green, Yellow, and Red indicate rain. Orange and Purple Indicate Freezing Rain or other freezing precipitation. Blue indicates snow.

---

WEATHER SPONSOR



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your with your next project.

---

Weather Hazards

Moderate to heavy rain will be possible ahead of a cold front tonight, resulting in a continued threat of minor flooding on the Little Tennessee and Cullasaja Rivers as well as some smaller streams.

In addition, expect very gusty southwest winds Saturday night ahead of the cold front, and then very gusty northwest winds after the frontal passage Sunday and Sunday night. Various Flood and Wind Warnings and Advisories will be in effect for Macon County for portions of the weekend in Macon County and copies of each are posted below for your convenience.

Heavy rainfall is expected through the weekend. As usual when it rains, there will be runoff on area roadways and ponding that could lead to hydroplaning for vehicles that are exceeding safe speeds. Please slow down and arrive alive and uninjured. Remember to keep your umbrella with you and use your headlights so other motorists can see you on the roads.



Flood Warning
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
1107 AM EST FRI FEB 22 2019

The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has extended
the

* Flood Warning for...
South central Macon County in western North Carolina...

* Until 1130 AM EST Saturday.

* At 1100 AM EST, Doppler radar indicated that light to moderate showers are continuing to train over the Little Tennessee River watershed across southern Macon County. Rainfall rates associated with these showers are generally less than 0.2 inches per hour. Heavy rainfall of 1-2 inches over the past 24 hours, with 48 hours totals exceeding 3-4 inches, is occurring on top of saturated soils due to a prolonged wet pattern. This is causing widespread excessive runoff and significant stream rises along the upper Little Tennessee River and associated tributaries. High streamflows are causing widespread flooding near Otto and flooding is expected to continue into early Saturday.

* The Little Tennessee River near Otto has not reached levels this high since at least 2010. Significant flooding is likely ongoing across adjacent low-lying areas including farmland, low-water crossings, boat-access areas, parks and trails, and may be threatening homes and businesses at lower elevations near the river. Please heed all guidance from local officials and obey all barricades.



* The following streamgauge has exceeded Minor Flood Stage:
Little Tennessee River near Otto.

Current Stage: 19.64 feet and rising steadily.

Forecast: The Little Tennessee River will continue to rise to at near 20.0 feet through early Friday afternoon. A rise to Moderate Flood Stage is possible into Friday afternoon which may mean signficant inundation of low-lying areas, several road closures, and structural flooding is possible.

Action/Advisory Stage: 11.0 feet.

Minor Flood Stage: 17.0 feet.

Moderate Flood Stage: 21.0 feet.

Impacts: At 17.0 feet, Riverside Road will be flooded. Significant flooding of low-lying areas is ongoing. Areas along the river should be avoided until waters recede.

* Some locations that will experience flooding include...
Otto.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Excessive runoff from heavy rainfall is causing flooding of small creeks and streams, country roads, as well as farmland, drainages, and other low-lying areas.

Numerous roads, parking lots and bridges will be threatened by heavy rain and rapidly rising streams and creeks. Please pay close attention to road signs indicating a flood-prone area. Obey all barricades, even if water is not currently over the road. Barricades are in place for your protection and indicate areas where flooding can occur rapidly and without warning.

Only when it is safe to do so, please report floodwaters or landslides flowing over roads or threatening property to the National Weather Service by calling toll-free, 1, 800, 2 6 7, 8 1 0 1, by posting on our Facebook page, or via Twitter using hashtag NWSGSP. Your message should describe the event and the specific location where it occurred, including roadways, nearby cross streets, stream names and other landmarks.


Flood Advisory
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
952 PM EST FRI FEB 22 2019


The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has extended
the

* Flood Advisory for...
North central Macon County in western North Carolina...
South central Swain County in western North Carolina...

* Until 1015 PM EST Saturday.

* At 943 PM EST, Doppler radar indicated periodic continued light to moderate rainfall occurring over the Little Tennessee River watershed across Macon and southern Swain counties.

Rainfall rates associated with these showers are generally less than 0.10 inches per hour. Heavy rainfall of 1-2 inches over the past 24 hours, with 48 hours totals exceeding 3-4 inches, is occurring on top of saturated soils due to a prolonged wet pattern. This is causing widespread excessive runoff and significant stream rises along the Little Tennessee River and associated tributaries. High streamflows causing widespread flooding near Otto are working downstream towards Franklin, Cowee,and Needmore and will cause the Little Tennessee River to remain high.



* The following streamgauge has exceeded Action Stage: Little
Tennessee River above NC 28, 3 N Franklin.

* Current Stage: 8.3 feet and cresting.

* Forecast: The Little Tennessee River will fall slowly through Saturday.

* Action Stage: 7.5 feet.

* Minor Flood Stage: 10.0 feet.

* Impacts: At 7.5 feet, low-lying areas along the Little Tennessee River near NC 28 are beginning to flood. This may impact low-water crossings, boat-access areas, parks, and trails. At 8.0 feet, Needmore Road may flood near the Macon/Swain County line. At 10.0 feet, several low-lying roadways may begin to flood.



* The following streamgauge has exceeded Action Stage: Little
Tennessee River at Needmore Rd., 7 SW Bryson City.

* Current Stage: 8.07 feet and creating.

* Forecast: The Little Tennessee River will fall slowly through
Saturday.

* Action Stage: 7.5 feet.

* Minor Flood Stage: 10.0 feet.

* Impacts: At 7.5 feet, low-lying areas along the Little Tennessee River near NC 28 are beginning to flood. This may impact low-water crossings, boat-access areas, parks, and trails. At 8.0 feet, Needmore Road may flood near the Macon/Swain County line. At 10.0 feet, several low-lying roadways may begin to flood.

* Some locations that will experience flooding include...
Franklin, Luada, Almond, Cowee, Cullasaja and Burningtown.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Heavy rain falling along mountain creeks can cause sudden increases in water flow downstream, even in areas where it is not raining. People participating in outdoor recreation should move away from creeks and small streams.

Only when it is safe to do so, please report floodwaters or landslides flowing over roads or threatening property to the National Weather Service by calling toll-free, 1, 800, 2 6 7, 8 1 0 1, by posting on our Facebook page, or via Twitter using hashtag NWSGSP. Your message should describe the event and the specific location where it occurred, including roadways, nearby cross streets, stream names, and other landmarks.


Wind Advisory
URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
320 AM EST Sat Feb 23 2019

...VERY WINDY CONDITIONS TO DEVELOP ACROSS THE NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAINS TONIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY NIGHT...

.South to southwest winds will increase rapidly across the North Carolina mountains tonight ahead of an approaching, strong cold front. Winds will turn west then northwest early Sunday behind the passing cold front, increasing in strength in the cold air. Strong winds will likely continue through Sunday night across at least the northern mountains of western North Carolina.



...WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 7 PM EST SUNDAY...

The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued a Wind Advisory, which is in effect from 7 PM this evening to 7 PM EST Sunday.

* LOCATIONS...The central and southern mountains of western North Carolina.

* HAZARDS...Very windy conditions.

* TIMING...Southwest winds will increase this evening and then maximize early overnight ahead of an approaching cold front. Winds will turn sharply west then northwest on Sunday and strengthen through the day.

* WINDS...Southwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph at elevations above 3500 feet tonight. Following the cold front passage early Sunday, west to northwest winds at 20 to 30 mph, with gusts of 40 to 50 mph, throughout on Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Advisory means that winds of 35 mph are expected. Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.

Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite source of weather information for the latest updates. Additional details can be found at www.weather.gov/gsp.

---

WEATHER FORECAST MAPS

Forecast maps for 7 am, 1 pm, and 7 pm.
[click on any image in this article to enlarge]

---

FRANKLIN AREA FORECAST

Today

A chance of rain before 8am, then a chance of showers between 8am and 1pm, then a chance of rain after 1pm. Patchy fog. Otherwise, cloudy, with a high near 55. Winds out of the southeast 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Tonight

Rain before 3am, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm, mainly after 3am. Patchy fog. Low around 50. Winds out of the south 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Sunday

A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 8am. Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 60. Winds out of the southwest 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 30. Winds out of the northwest around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 55.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 30.

---

OTTO AREA FORECAST

Today

Rain likely before 4pm, then showers likely after 4pm. Patchy fog. Otherwise, cloudy, with a high near 50. Winds out of the southeast around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Tonight

Rain before 1am, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm, mainly after 1am. Patchy fog. Lows in the upper 40s. Winds out of the southeast 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three-quarters of an inch possible.

Sunday

A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 8am. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high in the upper 50s. Winds out of the west 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around freezing. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Monday

Sunny, with a high in the upper 50s.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around freezing.

---

HIGHLANDS PLATEAU FORECAST

Saturday

Rain, mainly before 4pm, then showers likely after 4pm. Patchy fog. High near 50. Winds out of the southeast around 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Tonight

Rain before 2am, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm, mainly after 2am. Patchy fog. Low around 45. Winds out of the south 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three-quarters of an inch possible.

Sunday

A chance of showers before 8am, then a slight chance of rain between 8am and 9am. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high in the lower 50s. Winds out of the northwest 20 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 30. Winds out of the northwest 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 50.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around freezing.

---

NANTAHALA AREA FORECAST


Today

A chance of rain before 8am, then showers likely between 8am and 1pm, then a chance of rain after 1pm. Patchy fog. Otherwise, cloudy, with a high near 55. Winds out of the south 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Tonight

Showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 2am. Patchy fog. Low in the upper 40s. Winds out of the south 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three-quarters of an inch possible.

Sunday

A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 7am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 55. Winds out of the southwest 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 30. Winds out of the northwest 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 50.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 30.

---

Macon County Almanac for February 23, 2019

Highest Temperature 75°F in Franklin in 1980
Lowest Temperature 3°F in Highlands in 1939
Greatest Rainfall 2.89 inches in Highlands in 1994
Greatest Snowfall 3.5 inches in Highlands in 1989

Weather Extremes for Macon County for February
Data available from 1873 to 2018

Highest Temperature 79°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-28-1996
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on 02-13-1899
Greatest Rainfall 6.37 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-13-1966
Greatest Snowfall 15.0 inches in Highlands on 02-14-1912

Weather Extremes for Macon County for February
Data available from 1873 to 2018

Highest Temperature 79°F at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-28-1996
Lowest Temperature -19°F in Highlands on 02-13-1899
Greatest Rainfall 6.37 inches at the Coweeta Experimental Station on 02-13-1966
Greatest Snowfall 15.0 inches in Highlands on 02-14-1912

---

CROWDFUNDING OR DAY SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES


If you receive value from what Macon Media provides to the community, please consider becoming a supporter and contribute at least a dollar a month. Those who support Macon Media with at least a dollar a month receive early access to video of some events and meetings before they are made public on the website. Videos and news involving public safety are not subject to early access.

Patreon Subscriber History May 2014 to Present



Become a Patron!
If you have a business or event you are interested in sponsorship opportunities or underwriting coverage, send an email to editor@MaconMedia.com for more information. Serious inquiries only.

Thank You to the people who have been sending in donations and those businesses who are underwriting coverage of news and events. You have kept Macon Media online.

Published at 4:15 am on February 23, 2019

Read More

Daily Weather Briefing for Sunday, January 20, 2019

Outlook

A strong low-pressure system will move along the New England coast today as very cold high pressure builds across our area and the wind gradually diminishes late today and tonight. The very cold temperatures will last a couple of nights before milder weather returns in advance of the next low pressure and cold front which will arrive on Wednesday night and Thursday. Expecting very chilly weather next weekend.


THREE DAY GFS FORECAST
This animated image shows a forecast of precipitation, air pressure and thickness level (cold-air damming) for three days in six-hour increments.
Green, Yellow, and Red indicate rain. Orange and Purple Indicate Freezing Rain or other freezing precipitation. Blue indicates snow.

---

WEATHER SPONSOR



Adams Products, a Division of Oldcastle is underwriting the daily weather briefing & public safety updates for the month.

Open 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, M-F, located at 895 Hickory Knoll Road, Franklin, NC. Visit our Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Adams.Oldcastle.Franklin.NC/

All your masonry needs are available. Our phone number is 828.524.8545, the public is welcome, we’ll help you with your with your next project.

---

Weather Hazards

A wind advisory is in effect from 6am this morning to 7 pm tonight above 3500 feet.

An extremely cold air mass will push into the area behind a cold front. With recent rainfall, any water on roadways will freeze as temperatures plunge below freezing. This flash freeze may result in the development of black ice. Caution is advised for anyone traveling this morning.


A copy of the Wind Advisory is posted below.

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
1009 PM EST Sat Jan 19 2019

...VERY WINDY CONDITIONS ACROSS THE NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAINS ON SUNDAY...

.While winds may briefly subside later this evening, a strong cold front will move across the region after midnight. Winds in the wake of the front will turn from the northwest and become very strong and gusty, even in the valleys. Damaging winds will be possible during the day Sunday, especially along and near the Blue Ridge escarpment.



...WIND ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT FROM 6 AM TO 7 PM EST SUNDAY ABOVE 3500 FEET...

The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued a new Wind Advisory above 3500 feet, which is in effect from 6 AM to 7 PM EST Sunday.

* LOCATIONS...Elevations above 3500 feet in the southern mountains of western North Carolina, including the Great Smoky mountains and vicinity.

* HAZARDS...Very windy conditions.

* TIMING...Winds will remain gusty from the south into the evening before briefly diminishing. Strong, gusty winds will return from the northwest early on Sunday morning.

* WINDS...Northwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.

* IMPACTS...Strong winds may blow down limbs, trees, and power lines. Scattered power outages are expected.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Wind Advisory means that winds of 35 mph are expected. Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.

Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or your favorite source of weather information for the latest updates. Additional details can be found at www.weather.gov/gsp.

---

WEATHER FORECAST MAPS

Forecast maps for 7 am, 1 pm, and 7 pm.
[click on any image in this article to enlarge]

---

FRANKLIN AREA FORECAST

Today

A 30 percent chance of snow showers, mainly before 7am. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near freezing, but wind chill values will make it feel like it is in the upper teens and twenties at times. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Little or no snow accumulation expected.

Tonight (windy and wind chill values near zero)

Mostly clear, with a low around 15 and wind chill values near zero. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Sunny, with a high near 40. Winds out of the northwest around 5 mph becoming calm in the morning.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with lows in the lower 20s. Light winds out of the southeast.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 45.

Tuesday Night

Rain likely, mainly after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around freezing. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

---

OTTO AREA FORECAST

Today

A 20 percent chance of snow showers before 8am. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 35. Winds out of the northwest 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Tonight (windy with wind chill values near zero)

Mostly clear, with a low around 15 and wind chill values near zero at times. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Sunny, with highs in the lower 40s. Winds out of the northwest around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 25. Light winds out of the southeast.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 45.

Tuesday Night

Rain likely, mainly after 3am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around freezing. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

---

HIGHLANDS PLATEAU FORECAST

Today

A 20 percent chance of snow showers before 8am. Patchy fog before 7am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with temperatures starting out around 30 in the morning and dropping into the lower 20s by the end of the day. Wind chill values will drop into the single digits during the day and may drop below zero in the late afternoon. Winds out of the northwest 25 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 50 mph.

Tonight (windy with dangerous wind chill values)

Mostly clear, with a low in the low to mid-teens. Wind chill values will drop below zero at times. Winds out of the northwest 20 to 25 mph decreasing to 15 to 20 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Sunny, with a high near 35. Wind chill values near zero in the morning, then moderating by midmorning. Winds out of the northwest 5 to 8 mph becoming light and variable by midmorning.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 20. Winds out of the southeast around 5 mph.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near the upper 30s.

Tuesday Night

A chance of rain, snow, and sleet before midnight, then a chance of sleet between midnight and 1am, then snow likely after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

---

NANTAHALA AREA FORECAST

Today

A 40 percent chance of snow showers, mainly before 10am. Patchy fog before midmorning. Otherwise, cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 25. Winds out of the northwest 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 10. Wind chill values below zero. Winds out of the northwest 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Sunny, with a high near 35. Wind chill values will be near zero in the morning, moderating by midmorning as winds decrease. Winds out of the northwest 3 to 8 mph.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with lows in the low-to-mid 20s. Winds out of the southeast 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with highs in the lower 40s.

Tuesday Night

Rain likely, mainly after 4am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around freezing. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

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Macon County Almanac for January 20, 2019

Highest Temperature 71°F in Highlands in 2017
Lowest Temperature -8°F in Franklin in 1985
Greatest Rainfall 3.50 inches in Highlands in 1883
Greatest Snowfall 4.0 inches in Highlands in 1918

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Published at 2:05 am on January 20, 2019

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