The forecast for this weekend’s winter storm, dubbed Fern, is not entirely clear yet, but it seems certain that Western North Carolina is bound for some rough weather. Light precipitation is expected to move in Saturday and intensify Sunday.

While initial tracks indicated the storm could dump over a foot of snow in some parts of the region, newer forecasts point to less snow in favor of a large ice accumulation, which in many senses could prove more devastating. Along with making most roads untravelable for a longer period, ice accumulation can weigh down and snap branches, leading to property damage and widespread power outages.

Three public information officers who serve the people of Haywood County were recently recognized in Asheville by the North Carolina City and County Communicators, a statewide network of dedicated professionals working in public information, communications, marketing and media across local governments and universities. 

It’s been about five months since the 20-mile stretch of Interstate 40 in Haywood County up to the Tennessee state line has been shut down due to massive damage over a span of about three miles, but as of now, one lane of travel in each direction is expected to be restored next week. 

Solid numbers on damage from Hurricane Helene are finally coming into Haywood County, along with a state plan to repurpose federal funds that will help speed recovery. 

A growing tropical storm that’s expected to become a major hurricane is tracking through the Gulf of Mexico and appears to be headed right for Western North Carolina. Local officials aren’t taking any chances.

The first of eight planned new river gauges will be installed in Haywood County this week. When complete the project will greatly enhance Haywood County Emergency Services’ ability to monitor upstream river levels.