Strong Thunderstorm Warning: Buncombe & Henderson Counties Advised to Seek Shelter

Residents in Buncombe and Henderson counties are advised to seek shelter indoors immediately as a strong thunderstorm approaches. The National Weather Service (NWS) Greenville-Spartanburg SC issued a Special Weather Statement at 12:08 AM EDT today, September 22, 2026, valid until 12:45 AM EDT.

Doppler radar indicates a strong thunderstorm located 8 miles northwest of Hendersonville, near Asheville Airport, moving north at 20 mph. This storm is capable of producing wind gusts up to 40 mph and half-inch hail.

Impacted areas include Downtown Asheville, East Asheville, Arden, West Asheville, Mills River, Fletcher, Mountain Home, Biltmore Forest, Bent Creek, and Asheville Airport. Gusty winds could dislodge tree limbs and unsecured outdoor objects. Minor hail damage to outdoor objects is also possible.

If you are outdoors in these areas, consider seeking shelter inside a building until the storm passes.