ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Strong winds are expected to develop across parts of Western North Carolina tonight, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a wind advisory for higher elevations.
The advisory is in effect from 9 p.m. Wednesday until noon Thursday for areas above 3,500 feet in Buncombe, Mitchell and Yancey counties, according to the National Weather Service office in Greenville-Spartanburg.
Forecasters say northwest winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected, with gusts reaching between 45 and 55 mph in the mountains.
The gusty conditions could blow around unsecured outdoor objects, down tree limbs and lead to a few isolated power outages. Strong winds may also make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.
Residents are urged to use extra caution while traveling and to secure loose outdoor items ahead of the strong winds.