North Carolina’s Asheville: Howling Winds Bring Down Trees, Cause Power OutagesNorth Carolina’s Asheville: Howling Winds Bring Down Trees, Cause Power Outages Asheville, North Carolina, was ravaged by howling winds on Thursday night, leaving a trail of downed trees, power outages, and damage across the city. The National Weather Service recorded wind gusts as high as 60 mph, which uprooted large trees, snapped branches, and sent debris flying through the air. According to Asheville Fire Department, several trees fell on homes, cars, and power lines, causing significant damage. Duke Energy reported that over 20,000 customers lost power during the storm. Crews worked throughout the night to restore service, but some areas remained without electricity for several hours. City crews were deployed to clear fallen trees and debris from roads and sidewalks. The Asheville Police Department urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to be aware of downed power lines, which could be hazardous. The storm also affected the Asheville Outlets mall, which closed early due to safety concerns. Several other businesses in the city also experienced power outages and disruptions. Local schools were closed on Friday as city officials assessed the damage and ensured the safety of students and staff. The Buncombe County School System announced that all schools would be closed for in-person learning on Friday but would transition to remote learning. The Asheville Police Department reminded residents to stay informed about the latest weather conditions and to follow official instructions. Emergency shelters were open for those who needed assistance. As the storm subsided, Asheville residents began the cleanup and recovery process. City officials urged people to be cautious and to report any damage to their property or power outages to the appropriate authorities.