Weather Snapshot: New Year’s Eve in the mountains (Murphy and nearby)
Clear and chilly conditions are the headline for tonight, with a bright New Year’s Day on deck. If you’re heading out for fireworks or a late get-together, plan for colder temperatures after dark and dress like you’ll be standing still for a while.
Expect the coldest temps late tonight into early morning.
Bundle kids and older neighbors who are sensitive to cold.
If you’re traveling, slow down on shaded roads where frost can show up.
Sources:
News Date: 2025-12-31
Hometown Heroes Wednesday: Dispatchers and firefighters keeping the lights on
As the year closes, we’re tipping our hats to the people who answer the call and show up when it matters. Union County shared visible progress on its new E-911 Center, including NextGen 911 and upgraded dispatch technology. In Cherokee County, the Ranger Volunteer Fire Department recognized members for service milestones and awards, which is a good reminder that volunteer service is still the backbone of public safety in many mountain communities.
Public safety “infrastructure” includes technology and trained people, not just buildings.
A quick thank-you text to someone on call tonight goes a long way.
Volunteer departments rely on neighbors, time, and steady community support.
Sources:
News Date: 2025-12-29
City of Blue Ridge property tax bills: printing error notice and the correct due date
The City of Blue Ridge posted a notice explaining that 2025 city property tax bills were mailed later than usual and that a printed due date on the bill is incorrect. The city says the correct due date for payment is February 20, 2026, even if the bill shows February 20, 2025.
If your bill’s printed year looks wrong, it’s a documented printing error.
Put the correct due date on your calendar now to avoid stress later.
If you’ve got questions, contact the City of Blue Ridge Finance Department.
Sources:
News Date: 2025-12-22
Downtown Murphy quick fun: “living mannequins” surprise shoppers at Marketplace Antiques
Downtown Murphy had a fun little moment this week when “living mannequins” surprised shoppers at Marketplace Antiques. It’s a small story, but it captures something good about these towns: people still make an effort to create joy for strangers.
If you need a low-stakes smile, downtown’s still got energy after the holidays.
Family-friendly fun does not have to be complicated or expensive.
This is the kind of “local weird” we fully support.
Sources:
News Date: 2025-12-31
Neighbor Notes and Midnight Safety Minute: fireworks, closures, and getting home safe
If you’re looking for an easy plan, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee lists New Year fireworks tonight, with fireworks set for 8:00 p.m. Also, Cherokee County’s calendar lists county offices closed tomorrow for New Year’s Day, so plan errands for Friday. And before midnight, do the simple things that keep New Year’s fun from turning into a mess: plan the ride home, keep pets inside if fireworks are happening nearby, and slow down on dark roads.
Make your driving plan before your last drink.
Keep fireworks and alcohol separate, and keep water nearby.
Closed offices tomorrow means “run errands Friday,” not “try your luck.”
Sources:
https://www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=1018&calType=0&day=1&month=1&year=2026
https://www.cityofblueridgega.gov/clerk/job-opening/accountant-accounts-payable-and-payroll
News Date: 2025-12-31
Where to listen and follow
Find the Appalachia Daily Update in your favorite podcast app, and follow along for show notes and community updates.
Notes, methods, and rights
This update is assembled with the help of AI tools, using public sources and official notices whenever possible. RiverRun.Digital retains all rights to the show format and original writing. Learn more at
https://go.riverrun.digital
.
