Flash Flood Watch cancelled as remnants of Ida moves through the mountains

Update, 8:45 a.m. Sept. 1

A Flash Flood Watch issued by the National Weather Service for the Asheville area has been cancelled. No additional widespread hazards are expected with the remnants of Ida, which will depart the area today.

There is still s 60% chance of rain in today’s forecast.

Update, 6:15 a.m. Sept. 1

All streets are open in Asheville this morning. There are no road closures associated with overnight rain from Tropical Depression Ida in the City of Asheville. Please use caution and watch for areas of standing water.

Original post, Aug. 31

Asheville Public Works has been preparing for any impacts from Tropical Depression Ida that may affect our City by cleaning out public ditches and storm drains in advance of the rain forecast to begin today. Public Works has staff on standby to assist with road closures, flooding issues, and downed trees.

The Asheville Fire Department is working with Buncombe County Emergency Management on any needed response or instances during the event such as swiftwater rescues. They will also be on hand to assist Public Works with any road closures.

As Tropical Storm Ida advances inland, the National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook and Flash Flood Watch in effect for our area. Several inches of rain are forecast to fall in conjunction with this weather event. Residents are urged to stay off the streets during flooding events and especially to NOT attempt to go around any barricaded streets in the event of flooding.

If you are asked to evacuate by emergency response personnel, please follow their instructions, and do so.