Date: July 11, 2026
Flood Watch Active Through Sunday Evening
A Flood Watch remains in place for Cherokee and Clay counties until 8 p.m. Sunday. Flash flooding from heavy rain can hit creeks, streams, low-lying roads, and trails quickly. Monitor forecasts and avoid flooded roads.
Sources:
2026-07-10 | https://www.newsobserver.com/news/weather-news/article316444964.html
Fort Butler Park Transfer Approved in Murphy
The Murphy Town Council unanimously approved conveying Fort Butler Park and Historic Site, about 0.8 acres, to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians at no cost. The site served as a detention point during the Trail of Tears. Mayor Tim Radford and Principal Chief Michell Hicks both spoke about honest history and stewardship. Legal transfer should finish in the coming weeks. The town maintains the park until then.
Sources:
2026-07-09 | https://www.heraldsun.com/news/state/article316439668.html
2026-07-07 | https://www.local3news.com/local-news/town-of-murphy-nc-to-transfer-fort-butler-park-to-eastern-band-of-cherokee-indians/article_a4dcff7a-d7f9-47f5-89b3-3f6a3a57d5a4.html
45th Festival on the Square Happening Now in Hayesville
The free three-day Festival on the Square runs through Sunday in downtown Hayesville. Arts vendors, live music, food, and family fun fill the square. The street dance opened the weekend Friday night.
Sources:
2026-06-05 | https://www.themountainbuzz.com/post/cchac-s-45th-annual-festival-on-the-square-returns-to-hayesville-july-10-12
Byron Herbert Reece Trail Relocation Complete
The new 1.4-mile sustainable route of the Byron Herbert Reece side trail is open. It connects the trailhead to the Appalachian Trail near Flatrock Gap. The project improves wilderness character and long-term trail health.
Sources:
2026-06-09 | https://appalachiantrail.org/news-stories/byron-herbert-reece-trail-reroute/
Nantahala Trails Strongly Recovered for Summer Hiking
The vast majority of roads and trails in the Nantahala National Forest are reopened after Hurricane Helene recovery work. Most popular hiking areas are accessible again. Always check current conditions before heading out.
Sources:
2026-07-11 | https://www.hendersonvillelightning.com/news/15484-more-than-90-of-forest-service-roads-trails-have-reopened.html
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