ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — As Buncombe County prepares for a winter storm expected to bring ice and snow this weekend, officials are urging residents to take steps to protect their water systems, recalling past disruptions during Tropical Storm Helene in 2024 and the severe Christmas storm of 2022. Those events left parts of the county without water for days and even weeks, highlighting the vulnerabilities of pipes, water treatment and distribution systems during extreme winter weather.
Clay Chandler, public information officer for Asheville’s Water Resources Department, said all 37 water storage tanks in the city’s system have been topped off to ensure adequate supply during the storm. Staff levels have been increased at water treatment plants, particularly overnight when temperatures drop, and all facilities are equipped with emergency generators ready to maintain operations in case of power outages.
“Every water plant and all 41 pump stations have emergency power,” Chandler said. “We’ve also prepositioned equipment to repair potential waterline breaks if roads become impassable.”
Residents are encouraged to take steps to protect their plumbing. Chandler advised dripping faucets to prevent freezing, insulating exposed pipes, keeping thermostats above 55°F, disconnecting outdoor hoses and covering outdoor faucets. If water meters freeze, customers can call 828-251-1122 for assistance.
Officials said water resources crews will remain on call throughout the storm, with a minimum of two duty officers overseeing maintenance and emergency response. Customer service representatives will be available 24/7, and guidance on storm preparedness is posted here.
Officials also reminded residents to ensure pets and livestock have access to unfrozen water and sufficient food. Chandler emphasized that while the city cannot prevent all disruptions, pre-storm preparations are designed to minimize impacts.
“Preparing now, including having at least one gallon of water per person per day for three to seven days, is critical,” Chandler said. “The forecast currently shows temperatures remaining below freezing through the weekend, so being ready to sustain your household is essential.”