Extreme Cold Warning
The National Weather Service has issued the following Urgent Weather Message on 1/31/26 at 2:00 AM.
EXTREME COLD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 1 PM EST SUNDAY
* WHAT: Dangerously cold wind chills as low as 22 below zero expected with the highest peaks seeing wind chills as low as 25 to 30 below zero.
* WHERE: The mountains of North Carolina.
* WHEN: From 1 PM this afternoon to 1 PM EST Sunday.
* IMPACTS: The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 20 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures. Pets and livestock will be endangered by extreme cold if left unprotected for extended periods.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Snow is expected to rapidly stick to roads and other surfaces due to temperatures in the 20s. Very gusty winds today could result in areas of blowing snow, causing very poor visibility.
Snowy Scene in Lake Lure, NC
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS
- Dress in layers including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside.
- To prevent water pipes from freezing; wrap or drain or allow them to drip slowly. Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors.
- Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside.
- It is recommended that you not leave home but if you do, slow down and use caution while traveling.
- If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.
- Register for Everbridge, the Town of Lake Lure Emergency Notification System: https://member.everbridge.net/305943405396052/login (See link at the bottom of the website.)
- Review Recommendations for Winter Preparations
- For further guidance visit ReadyNC to Plan, Prepare, Stay Informed: https://www.readync.gov
BEWARE OF BLACK ICE
If you are traveling, please be advised to continue to exercise caution as some of the side roads, parking lots, steps, and sidewalks may still be hazardous.
Many thanks to all who are working and continue to serve our community to protect us during inclement weather.
Call 9-1-1 for All Emergencies
RUTHERFORD COUNTY CLOSINGS
Due to inclement weather, the following facilities will be closed on Saturday, January 31, 2026:
- Rutherford County Landfill
- Rutherford County Convenience Centers
- Rutherford County Libraries
EMERGENCY PREPARATIONS
The Town of Lake Lure Emergency Preparedness Team has met and will continue to meet throughout the ongoing storm to prepare and address any issues as they arise.
- Town crews are continuing to prepare town roads and to plow those with ice. Three plows are working to address these issues.
- The NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is responsible for state highways and roads.
- For questions, please email Communications@townoflakelure.com
DUKE ENERGY
- Report a power outage: Text OUT to 57801
- Visit duke-energy.com/outages
- Use the Duke Energy mobile app
- Call 800-POWERON (800-769-3766)
REMC
- Report a power outage: 1- 800-521-0920, 828-245-1621
- Web outage viewer: http://cvoutage.remc.com:8083/
- Website: https://www.remc.com/
REGISTER FOR EVERBRIDGE - EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS
Be sure to register for the Town of Lake Lure, NC's Emergency Notification System (Everbridge) to receive important updates. You may opt to receive notifications by text message, phone call, or email. Please click on the following link to register: https://member.everbridge.net/305943405396052/login
Questions: For questions or assistance with your registration you may email Communications@townoflakelure.com.
STATE OF EMERGENCY
Governor Stein declared a State of Emergency as North Carolina prepares for the impacts of a major winter storm.
Rutherford County also declared a State of Emergency.
The Town of Lake Lure Emergency Preparedness Team continues to meet and Mayor Pritchett has also signed a State of Emergency for the Town of Lake Lure.
ADDITIONAL TOWN NEWS
You may review additional Town News here.
You may download the 2026 Events Calendar here.
Published 1/30/26
