A notification of potentially hazardous winter weather conditions, targeting specific geographic areas, informs residents and travelers of potential risks. This allows for proactive preparation and informed decision-making regarding travel, work, and outdoor activities. For example, such notifications might warn of freezing rain, sleet, heavy snow accumulation, or dangerously low wind chills, enabling individuals to take precautions like stocking up on supplies, avoiding unnecessary travel, or ensuring adequate home heating.
These alerts are crucial for public safety, contributing significantly to minimizing weather-related incidents and protecting vulnerable populations. Timely dissemination of this information allows communities to prepare emergency services, coordinate resource allocation, and implement safety protocols. Historically, advanced warnings have demonstrably reduced the negative impact of severe weather, leading to fewer accidents, injuries, and fatalities. This preparedness is particularly crucial in mountainous regions, where conditions can change rapidly and access can be quickly compromised.
The following information provides further details on the specific weather event, potential impacts, recommended safety measures, and available resources for residents in the affected areas. This includes road closures, emergency shelter information, and contact details for local authorities.
1. Potential Hazards
Potential hazards form the core justification for issuing a winter weather advisory. In the case of Watauga and Ashe counties, the advisory likely signifies the possibility of several hazardous conditions. These may include, but are not limited to, heavy snowfall leading to reduced visibility and hazardous road conditions; ice accumulation causing power outages and falling tree limbs; and dangerously low wind chills increasing the risk of hypothermia and frostbite. Understanding these potential hazards is crucial for residents to adequately prepare and mitigate risks.
The specific geographic location of Watauga and Ashe counties contributes to the nature of potential hazards. Their mountainous terrain increases the likelihood of rapid weather changes, localized heavy snowfall, and treacherous road conditions due to steep inclines and winding roads. Previous winter weather events in these regions have resulted in road closures, power outages, and disruptions to essential services. Being aware of these historical precedents underscores the importance of heeding the warnings associated with a winter weather advisory.
Preparedness based on identified potential hazards significantly improves community resilience during winter weather events. Taking proactive steps such as stocking up on essential supplies, ensuring adequate home heating, and avoiding unnecessary travel minimizes the negative impact of these hazards. Furthermore, understanding the specific risks allows individuals to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being, contributing to a more effective community-wide response to the advisory.
2. Affected regions
Specifying affected regions, in this case, Watauga and Ashe counties, provides critical geographical context for a winter weather advisory. This targeted approach ensures that residents and travelers in these areas receive timely and relevant information, allowing for appropriate preparedness and response. Understanding the unique characteristics of these locations further enhances the effectiveness of the advisory.
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Geographic characteristics
Watauga and Ashe counties are located in the northwestern region of North Carolina, characterized by mountainous terrain and higher elevations. These geographical features contribute to specific weather patterns, including rapid temperature fluctuations, localized heavy snowfall, and increased susceptibility to freezing rain and ice accumulation. Consequently, winter weather advisories for these counties often involve unique considerations compared to lower-lying areas.
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Transportation infrastructure
The mountainous terrain of these counties impacts road networks, often featuring winding roads and steep inclines. Winter weather conditions can make these roads particularly treacherous, increasing the risk of accidents. Furthermore, access to remote areas within the counties can be severely limited during heavy snow or ice events, emphasizing the importance of preemptive planning for residents and emergency services.
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Community demographics and preparedness
Understanding the demographics of affected regions helps tailor emergency preparedness and response efforts. Factors such as population density, the proportion of vulnerable populations (elderly, individuals with disabilities), and access to resources influence the potential impact of a winter weather advisory. Prior experiences with severe winter weather in Watauga and Ashe counties inform current preparedness strategies and community resilience.
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Communication and outreach
Disseminating information effectively to residents in the specified areas relies on established communication channels. Local media outlets, emergency alert systems, and community networks play a crucial role in ensuring that the advisory reaches all affected individuals. Furthermore, targeted communication can address specific needs and concerns within Watauga and Ashe counties, such as road closures, shelter availability, and access to essential services.
The identification of Watauga and Ashe counties as the affected regions allows for a focused and effective response to the winter weather advisory. Considering the geographical characteristics, transportation infrastructure, community demographics, and established communication channels contributes to enhanced preparedness, minimized disruptions, and ultimately, increased safety for residents in these areas. This localized approach highlights the importance of geographical specificity in disseminating weather-related information.
3. Advisory Type
Understanding the “Advisory Type: Winter Weather” designation within the broader context of a “winter weather advisory issued for Watauga and Ashe counties” is crucial for accurate interpretation and effective response. This categorization signifies specific potential hazards and informs the recommended precautionary measures. Examining the components of a winter weather advisory clarifies its implications for affected communities.
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Severity Level
Winter weather advisories represent a moderate level of severity within the spectrum of winter weather alerts. They indicate conditions that pose inconveniences and potential hazards, but typically fall short of the criteria for more severe warnings like blizzard warnings or ice storm warnings. Distinguishing between these levels helps individuals gauge the potential impact and prioritize appropriate actions.
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Specific Hazards
A winter weather advisory encompasses a range of potential hazards, including moderate snowfall, sleet, freezing rain, and blowing snow. These conditions can lead to slippery roads, reduced visibility, and power outages. The advisory communicates the possibility of these hazards occurring within the specified timeframe and geographical area, allowing residents to prepare accordingly. For example, understanding the potential for freezing rain may prompt residents to ensure they have necessary supplies in case of power outages.
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Impact on Daily Activities
Winter weather advisories typically indicate conditions that may disrupt daily activities, such as commuting, school schedules, and outdoor work. While not necessarily life-threatening, these disruptions underscore the importance of adjusting routines and exercising caution. For instance, anticipating slippery roads may lead to decisions about delaying travel or working remotely. Recognizing the potential impact minimizes disruptions and enhances safety.
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Duration and Timing
Winter weather advisories include a specified timeframe, outlining the period during which the hazardous conditions are expected to persist. This information allows individuals to plan accordingly, making informed decisions about travel, work, and other activities. Awareness of the advisory’s duration facilitates effective time management and minimizes exposure to potentially hazardous conditions.
In the context of Watauga and Ashe counties, classifying the alert as a “Winter Weather Advisory” provides critical information for residents. This categorization, coupled with the specific geographic focus, emphasizes the potential for disruptions and hazards associated with winter weather in these mountainous regions. Understanding the advisory’s implications allows residents to take appropriate precautions, minimizing the negative impact of the impending weather event and contributing to overall community safety.
4. Duration of advisory
The duration of a winter weather advisory provides a crucial temporal framework for understanding the potential impact on Watauga and Ashe counties. A longer duration signifies a more extended period of hazardous conditions, necessitating greater preparedness and potentially impacting a wider range of activities. Conversely, a shorter duration, while still requiring vigilance, may allow for adjustments to schedules rather than complete disruption. The specified timeframe informs decision-making regarding resource allocation, travel plans, and the activation of emergency protocols.
Consider, for example, a winter weather advisory issued for a duration of 12 hours versus one issued for 48 hours. The longer duration suggests a higher probability of significant snow accumulation, extended periods of hazardous road conditions, and increased potential for power outages. This necessitates more extensive preparation, such as securing sufficient food and water supplies, ensuring alternative heating sources, and potentially arranging for temporary shelter. A shorter duration may still warrant precautions, but the impact on daily life may be less substantial.
Accurate forecasting of advisory duration is essential for effective community response. Challenges arise when predicting the precise duration of complex weather systems. Unexpected changes in atmospheric conditions can lead to extensions or premature cancellations of advisories. These uncertainties emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring of weather updates and remaining adaptable to changing conditions. Flexibility in personal planning and community-level emergency response is paramount for navigating the inherent variability of winter weather events. The “duration of advisory” is not merely a static element but a dynamic component that influences the overall effectiveness of preparedness and response within affected communities.
5. Expected Impacts
Anticipating the potential impacts of a winter weather advisory is crucial for effective preparedness and response within Watauga and Ashe counties. Understanding the likely consequences of predicted weather conditions allows residents, emergency services, and local authorities to take proactive steps to mitigate risks and ensure community safety. The following facets outline key areas where impacts are typically observed.
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Travel Disruptions
Hazardous road conditions due to snow, ice, or freezing rain can lead to significant travel disruptions. Mountainous terrain in Watauga and Ashe counties exacerbates these challenges, increasing the likelihood of road closures and accidents. Commuters, freight transport, and emergency services may experience delays or cancellations. Anticipating these disruptions allows for adjustments to travel plans, implementation of alternative transportation strategies, and pre-positioning of emergency resources.
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Power Outages
Ice accumulation on power lines and trees poses a significant risk of power outages. Extended power disruptions can affect heating systems, communication networks, and access to essential services. Residents should prepare for potential outages by ensuring adequate insulation, securing alternative heating sources, and having backup power options for essential devices. Power companies can pre-stage crews and equipment to expedite restoration efforts.
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School and Business Closures
Winter weather conditions may necessitate school and business closures to ensure public safety. These closures can disrupt routines, impacting childcare arrangements, work schedules, and economic activities. Advance notice of potential closures allows for proactive planning, alternative work arrangements, and communication within affected communities. Flexibility and contingency plans minimize disruptions to essential services and daily life.
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Increased Demand for Emergency Services
Winter weather events often lead to an increased demand for emergency services, including medical assistance, search and rescue operations, and responses to accidents. Strain on emergency resources underscores the importance of individual preparedness and proactive community support. Clear communication channels and coordination between emergency agencies are essential for efficient resource allocation and effective response to critical incidents.
Considering these expected impacts within the context of a winter weather advisory issued for Watauga and Ashe counties allows for a proactive and coordinated response. By anticipating potential disruptions and hazards, residents, businesses, and local authorities can implement appropriate measures to mitigate risks, ensure safety, and maintain essential services throughout the duration of the advisory. Effective preparedness based on anticipated impacts contributes to community resilience and minimizes the negative consequences of winter weather events.
6. Safety Recommendations
Safety recommendations constitute a critical component of a winter weather advisory issued for Watauga and Ashe counties. These recommendations provide actionable guidance to residents, mitigating risks associated with hazardous winter conditions. The effectiveness of an advisory hinges on public awareness and adherence to these safety measures. A direct correlation exists between adherence to safety recommendations and reduced incidence of weather-related accidents and injuries. For instance, heeding recommendations to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy snowfall demonstrably minimizes traffic accidents and prevents individuals from becoming stranded in hazardous conditions.
Specific safety recommendations typically associated with winter weather advisories in mountainous regions like Watauga and Ashe counties include: stocking up on essential supplies (food, water, medications); ensuring adequate home heating and insulation; avoiding travel unless absolutely necessary; equipping vehicles with emergency kits (blankets, first-aid supplies, flashlights); staying informed about changing weather conditions through official channels; and checking on vulnerable neighbors and family members. Practical application of these recommendations demonstrates individual preparedness and contributes to overall community resilience. For example, having an emergency kit in a vehicle can prove life-saving if an individual becomes stranded due to road closures or accidents.
Challenges in disseminating and ensuring adherence to safety recommendations persist. Reaching individuals in remote areas with limited communication access requires robust communication strategies. Furthermore, addressing language barriers and cultural differences within a community enhances the effectiveness of safety messaging. Public awareness campaigns, community engagement initiatives, and collaboration with local organizations contribute to broader understanding and adoption of safety measures. Ultimately, the efficacy of a winter weather advisory relies not only on accurate forecasting and timely dissemination of information, but also on the public’s understanding and implementation of recommended safety precautions. This proactive approach, combining informed decision-making with adherence to established safety guidelines, significantly contributes to minimizing the negative impacts of winter weather events in Watauga and Ashe counties.
7. Travel Considerations
Travel considerations are paramount when a winter weather advisory is issued for Watauga and Ashe counties. The mountainous terrain and rapidly changing weather patterns in these regions necessitate careful evaluation of travel plans. Ignoring these considerations can lead to hazardous situations, stranding travelers and potentially delaying emergency response efforts. Understanding the implications of winter weather on travel safety informs responsible decision-making and minimizes risks.
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Road Conditions
Winter weather advisories often indicate deteriorating road conditions due to snow, ice, or freezing rain. These conditions significantly reduce traction, increasing the risk of accidents. Mountainous roads in Watauga and Ashe counties, characterized by steep inclines and sharp curves, become particularly treacherous. Monitoring road closures and travel advisories issued by local authorities provides critical information for making informed travel decisions. Checking road conditions before embarking on a journey and adjusting routes or delaying travel are essential precautions.
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Visibility
Heavy snowfall and blowing snow can severely limit visibility, making driving hazardous. Reduced visibility increases the risk of collisions and makes navigation challenging, particularly in unfamiliar areas. Slowing down, increasing following distance, and using low-beam headlights are crucial safety measures. If visibility becomes severely impaired, pulling over in a safe location and waiting for conditions to improve is the most prudent course of action.
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Vehicle Preparedness
Ensuring vehicle preparedness is essential for safe winter travel in mountainous regions. Equipping vehicles with winter tires, checking tire pressure, and ensuring proper fluid levels are crucial pre-emptive measures. Carrying an emergency kit containing blankets, first-aid supplies, a flashlight, and extra food and water can be life-saving in case of stranding or accidents. Regular vehicle maintenance before the onset of winter further enhances safety and reliability.
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Alternative Transportation
During a winter weather advisory, considering alternative transportation options may be necessary. Public transportation, if available, may offer a safer alternative to driving personal vehicles. If travel is unavoidable, ride-sharing services or arranging for transportation with experienced drivers familiar with winter driving conditions can mitigate risks. Exploring these alternatives reduces the number of vehicles on the road, contributing to overall safety and minimizing potential hazards.
Careful consideration of these travel factors, combined with adherence to safety recommendations issued by local authorities, significantly enhances safety during a winter weather advisory in Watauga and Ashe counties. Prioritizing safety over convenience and making informed decisions about travel plans reduces the likelihood of accidents, minimizes disruptions, and contributes to a more effective community-wide response to winter weather events.
8. Emergency Resources
Access to emergency resources is essential when a winter weather advisory is issued for Watauga and Ashe counties. These resources provide critical support to residents during hazardous winter conditions, addressing needs ranging from basic necessities to emergency medical assistance. The effectiveness of emergency response efforts relies on pre-emptive planning, resource allocation, and clear communication channels between agencies and the public. A direct link exists between the availability and accessibility of emergency resources and a community’s resilience during winter weather events. For instance, pre-positioned supplies and equipment enable rapid response to power outages and road closures, minimizing disruptions and ensuring access to essential services.
Several key emergency resources play crucial roles during winter weather events. Emergency shelters provide temporary housing for individuals displaced by power outages or unsafe living conditions. Access to food, water, and medical supplies addresses basic needs during prolonged emergencies. Coordination between emergency medical services, search and rescue teams, and law enforcement ensures efficient response to accidents, medical emergencies, and other critical incidents. Furthermore, communication networks, including emergency alert systems and local media outlets, disseminate vital information about changing weather conditions, road closures, and safety recommendations. Real-world examples, such as the response to the 2016 ice storm in Watauga County, highlight the importance of coordinated resource allocation and effective communication for minimizing the negative impacts of severe winter weather. During this event, emergency shelters housed displaced residents, while coordinated efforts between utility companies and emergency services restored power and addressed critical infrastructure needs.
Challenges in accessing and distributing emergency resources during winter weather events require ongoing evaluation and improvement of preparedness strategies. Mountainous terrain and limited road access can impede the delivery of supplies and hinder emergency response efforts. Communication disruptions due to power outages or damaged infrastructure further complicate coordination. Vulnerable populations, including elderly residents and individuals with disabilities, may face additional challenges accessing essential resources. Addressing these challenges requires proactive planning, including pre-positioning of supplies in strategic locations, establishing alternative communication channels, and implementing targeted outreach programs for vulnerable communities. Contingency planning, regular drills, and interagency collaboration strengthen emergency preparedness efforts, enhancing community resilience and minimizing the negative impacts of future winter weather events in Watauga and Ashe counties. Furthermore, fostering individual preparedness through public education campaigns empowers residents to take proactive steps, supplementing community-level resources and contributing to a more robust and effective overall response to winter weather advisories.
9. Stay Informed
Remaining informed about evolving weather conditions and official advisories constitutes a critical aspect of winter weather preparedness, particularly in geographically vulnerable areas like Watauga and Ashe counties. Access to timely and accurate information enables informed decision-making, facilitates proactive safety measures, and contributes to effective community-wide response during winter weather events. “Stay informed” is not merely a passive suggestion but an active process of seeking out and interpreting relevant information. This proactive approach significantly influences individual and community resilience when facing winter weather hazards.
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Official Sources
Relying on official sources for weather information ensures accuracy and minimizes the spread of misinformation. The National Weather Service (NWS) provides authoritative forecasts, warnings, and advisories. Local emergency management agencies disseminate region-specific information through established communication channels. Consulting these official sources during a winter weather advisory provides credible updates on evolving conditions, potential hazards, and recommended safety measures. For example, following NWS updates during the January 2022 winter storm in Watauga County enabled residents to anticipate heavy snowfall and implement necessary precautions.
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Multiple Information Channels
Utilizing multiple information channels enhances access to timely updates during a winter weather advisory. Local radio broadcasts, television news, and official social media accounts provide redundant communication pathways. This multi-channel approach ensures that critical information reaches a wider audience, especially in areas with limited internet access or power outages. Diversifying information sources also mitigates the impact of potential communication disruptions affecting a single channel.
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Understanding Terminology
Accurate interpretation of weather terminology is fundamental to understanding the severity and potential impact of a winter weather advisory. Distinguishing between terms like “watch,” “warning,” and “advisory” allows for appropriate response and preparedness. Furthermore, understanding specific weather-related terminology, such as “freezing rain,” “black ice,” and “wind chill,” enables informed decision-making about travel, outdoor activities, and safety precautions. For instance, recognizing the difference between a “winter weather advisory” and a “winter storm warning” helps individuals gauge the severity of impending conditions and take appropriate action.
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Continuous Monitoring
Winter weather conditions can change rapidly, especially in mountainous regions. Continuously monitoring weather updates and official advisories throughout the duration of a winter weather event is crucial. This ongoing vigilance allows for adjustments to plans, proactive implementation of safety measures, and timely response to evolving hazards. Relying on outdated information can lead to inadequate preparation and increased vulnerability to changing conditions. Remaining informed throughout the event’s duration enables adaptive decision-making and enhances overall safety.
In the context of a winter weather advisory issued for Watauga and Ashe counties, staying informed through official sources, multiple information channels, and a clear understanding of terminology empowers residents to make informed decisions and take appropriate safety precautions. Continuous monitoring of evolving conditions enables adaptive responses, enhancing community resilience and minimizing the negative impacts of winter weather events in these vulnerable mountainous regions. This proactive approach to information gathering and interpretation underpins effective preparedness and response, contributing significantly to individual and community safety during hazardous winter conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section addresses common inquiries regarding winter weather advisories, specifically focusing on their implications for Watauga and Ashe counties.
Question 1: What distinguishes a winter weather advisory from a winter storm warning or watch?
A winter weather advisory indicates conditions that pose inconveniences and potential hazards, such as slippery roads and reduced visibility. A winter storm watch signifies the potential for severe winter weather conditions within the next 12 to 48 hours. A winter storm warning indicates that severe winter conditions are imminent or occurring, posing significant threats to safety and travel.
Question 2: How are road closures and travel restrictions communicated during a winter weather advisory?
Local authorities typically communicate road closures and travel restrictions through various channels, including local media outlets, official social media accounts, and the state department of transportation websites. Monitoring these channels provides essential information for travel planning and avoiding hazardous routes.
Question 3: What precautions should residents take if power outages occur during a winter weather event?
Residents should ensure adequate home insulation, conserve heat by closing off unused rooms, and have alternative heating sources available, such as fireplaces or wood-burning stoves (if safe to operate). Having backup power options for essential devices and knowing how to safely use generators is also recommended. Conserving phone battery and having a plan for communication in case of extended outages are crucial.
Question 4: How can individuals contribute to community safety during a winter weather advisory?
Checking on vulnerable neighbors and family members, especially those living alone or with limited mobility, can provide valuable support during winter weather events. Avoiding unnecessary travel reduces traffic congestion and minimizes the risk of accidents. Heeding official safety recommendations and sharing accurate information within social networks strengthens community-wide preparedness and response.
Question 5: What resources are available for individuals needing assistance during a winter weather event?
Local emergency management agencies often coordinate resources to assist residents during winter weather events. These resources can include emergency shelters, food and water distribution centers, and access to medical supplies. Contacting local authorities or dialing 211 can provide information about available resources and assistance programs.
Question 6: What specific challenges do the mountainous terrains of Watauga and Ashe counties present during winter weather events?
The steep inclines, winding roads, and higher elevations in Watauga and Ashe counties create unique challenges during winter weather. These include rapid changes in weather conditions, localized heavy snowfall, and increased susceptibility to freezing rain and ice accumulation. These factors contribute to treacherous road conditions, limited access to remote areas, and potential disruptions to power and communication infrastructure. Understanding these geographical challenges emphasizes the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety recommendations.
Preparedness is paramount when facing winter weather advisories in Watauga and Ashe counties. Understanding the potential hazards, heeding safety recommendations, and staying informed about evolving conditions contributes significantly to individual and community safety.
The subsequent sections of this article will delve into specific preparedness measures, contact information for local emergency services, and historical data on winter weather impacts in these regions.
Winter Weather Preparedness Tips
Preparedness is crucial for navigating winter weather advisories in mountainous regions. The following tips offer guidance for residents of Watauga and Ashe counties, promoting safety and minimizing disruptions during winter weather events.
Tip 1: Assemble an Emergency Kit
A well-stocked emergency kit provides essential resources during power outages or road closures. Include non-perishable food, water, blankets, a first-aid kit, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, and any necessary medications.
Tip 2: Winterize Vehicles
Ensure vehicles are equipped for winter driving. Install winter tires if appropriate, check tire pressure, and verify all fluids are at optimal levels. Include an emergency kit in each vehicle, containing blankets, a shovel, ice scraper, and sand or kitty litter for traction.
Tip 3: Insulate Homes and Prepare for Potential Power Outages
Adequate home insulation minimizes heat loss during cold weather. Seal drafts around windows and doors. Identify alternative heating sources, such as fireplaces or wood-burning stoves (if safe to use), and ensure they are properly maintained. Have backup power options available for essential devices and familiarize oneself with generator safety procedures.
Tip 4: Monitor Weather Forecasts and Advisories
Regularly monitor weather forecasts and official advisories from the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies. Stay informed about evolving conditions, potential hazards, and travel restrictions. Sign up for emergency alerts to receive timely notifications on mobile devices.
Tip 5: Plan for Travel Disruptions
Avoid unnecessary travel during winter weather advisories. If travel is unavoidable, check road conditions before departure and allow extra time for potential delays. Inform someone of travel plans, including route and estimated arrival time. Consider alternative transportation options, such as public transport or ride-sharing services.
Tip 6: Communicate and Check on Neighbors
Maintain communication with family and neighbors during winter weather events. Check on vulnerable individuals, such as elderly residents or those with disabilities, to ensure their safety and well-being. Establish a communication plan in case of power outages or cell service disruptions.
Tip 7: Conserve Energy During Power Outages
If power outages occur, conserve energy by limiting the use of electronic devices. Close off unused rooms to retain heat. Dress in warm layers and use blankets to maintain body temperature. Report power outages to the utility company and avoid downed power lines.
Proactive implementation of these preparedness tips enhances safety and minimizes disruptions during winter weather events. Combining individual preparedness with community-level resources strengthens overall resilience and fosters a safer environment for all residents of Watauga and Ashe counties during hazardous winter conditions.
The following conclusion synthesizes the key information presented in this article, emphasizing the interconnectedness of preparedness, community response, and individual responsibility in navigating winter weather advisories.
Conclusion
Winter weather advisories issued for Watauga and Ashe counties necessitate a comprehensive understanding of potential hazards, regional vulnerabilities, and recommended safety precautions. Mountainous terrain, rapid weather fluctuations, and potential infrastructure disruptions underscore the importance of preparedness. This article has explored critical aspects of winter weather advisories, including potential impacts on travel, power infrastructure, and daily activities. Guidance regarding emergency resources, safety recommendations, and communication strategies equips residents with the knowledge necessary for effective response. Emphasis has been placed on the interconnectedness of individual preparedness, community-level resources, and accurate information dissemination for mitigating risks and ensuring public safety.
Proactive planning and informed decision-making are crucial for navigating the challenges posed by winter weather in these vulnerable regions. Continued investment in community-level preparedness, robust communication networks, and public awareness campaigns strengthens collective resilience. Individual responsibility in adhering to safety recommendations and staying informed about evolving conditions contributes significantly to minimizing the negative impacts of winter weather events. Prioritizing safety, preparedness, and community collaboration ensures the well-being of residents in Watauga and Ashe counties during periods of hazardous winter weather.
