Weather & Safety: A Frozen Start
News Date: 2026-02-07
Saturday brings a sharp chill to Cherokee County with wind chills hitting the teens. While the sun will be out, temperatures won’t climb much past 39°F. Local drivers are urged to watch for patchy ice in shaded areas.
Public Safety: Heroic Rescue in Fannin
News Date: 2026-02-03
Firefighters in Fannin County saved two lives during a residential structure fire on Windy Ridge Road this week. One resident, who was on oxygen, was unable to evacuate until crews arrived. Both residents were treated for smoke inhalation.
Sources:
2026-02-03 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/fannin-firefighters-rescue-two-saturday-blaze
Community: Driving for DAV
News Date: 2026-02-03
The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 28 in Blue Ridge is in urgent need of volunteer drivers. These volunteers ensure local veterans can reach their medical appointments. No special license is required beyond a clean driving record and a desire to help.
Sources:
2026-02-03 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/veterans-need-driving-help
Event: Murphy Riverwalk Workday
News Date: 2026-02-07
Today, February 7, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, MountainTrue is hosting a volunteer workday at the Murphy Riverwalk. The focus is on removing invasive plant species like Chinese privet to help restore the local ecosystem.
Sources:
2026-02-07 | https://mountaintrue.org/event/invasive-plant-removal-workday-near-murphy-nc-at-the-murphy-riverwalk-following/
Trail Spotlight: Piney Knob Trails
News Date: 2026-02-07
For this Trail Spotlight Saturday, we highlight the Piney Knob Trail System in Murphy. With over 15 miles of trails, the winter season offers unique “leaf-off” views of the 700-acre watershed property that are hidden during the summer months.
Sources:
2026-02-07 | https://www.townofmurphync.com/community/page/piney-knob-trails
Regional: Blue Ridge Parkway Closures
News Date: 2026-02-06
Winter weather has led to the closure of several sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Travelers are advised to check real-time gate status before planning any mountain drives this weekend.
Sources:
2026-02-06 | https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/roadclosures.htm
Appalachia Daily Update is your hyper-local source for the news that matters to our mountains. We focus on community safety, local government, and the neighbors who make this region home. Take care of your neighbors, and they will take care of you. https://go.riverrun.digital
