01/23/2026
ICE STORM WATCH: NORTH CAROLINA STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein has declared a state of emergency as local agencies prepare for severe impacts from predicted widespread winter weather.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch starting Saturday morning through Monday morning for North Carolina, including the Town of Beech Mountain.
“A winter storm is approaching, and now is the time to prepare,’ says Gov. Stein. ‘Please get ready. Get everything you need in advance of the storm and have a plan in case your power goes out. I encourage all North Carolinians to stay home and off the roads this weekend unless absolutely necessary so first responders can do their jobs safely and effectively.”
Beech Mountain Town Manager and Fire Chief Bob Pudney says “The Town of Beech Mountain may become inaccessible if the predicted ice storm renders the roads impassable. Numerous downed trees and widespread, extended power outages are predicted. We ask non-residents to refrain from traveling in the region this weekend, for their own safety and in consideration of the public safety, road crews and utility workers who will be deployed in the area.
For our residents, and others who are already here, you may experience difficulties over the next few days. The following information will be helpful to you:
The Town of Beech Mountain will be actively working to maintain all rights-of-way. Keep all obstacles, including your vehicle, out of the road to allow the Town’s emergency operations to effectively service the community.
Protect waterlines from freezing by allowing the faucet to drip.
Report power outages to Mountain Electric at 828-733-0159
Non-emergency requests for information and guidance should be directed to the Visitor Center at 828-387-9283.
The Non-Emergency Dispatch number is 828-387-2342, however, please call the Visitor Center for all non-emergency needs. For an emergency, dial 911.
Contact the following businesses directly for help with towing, chains, or snow removal:
Wreckers and Towing
• Southridge Towing 828-260-3513 (Towing only)
• Papa’s Towing 828-467-4062 (Will service "after hours")
• Banner Elk Exxon 828-898-5210 (towing and chain delivery)
• High South Wrecker 828-898-4473
Towing and Chain Delivery
• Kevin Ruppard Wrecker 828-898-6480 / 828-387-7914
• Teaster’s 828-898-4788 / 828-387-6379
• Hamptons 828-264-3924
• Bills Garage 828-264-4623
• Hickman’s (Blowing Rock) 828-295-7662 / 828-964-3343
• KnS Wrecker 336-745-5364
• TnE Wrecker 423-725-2568
• Wrench Works Towing 828-964-7755
Snow Removal
• Porter Cook 828-504-0158
• Jacob Arnette- Recovery and roadside assistance salting and snow removal day or night, 828-897-1339
• Cole Arnette snow removal, Salting, Shuttling, Light towing 828 387 6639
Again, please do not come to the Town of Beech Mountain this weekend if you can avoid it, and please stay off the roads during the storm. Be prepared with food, water, blankets, flashlights, and any other supplies you may need.
Call the Visitor Center 828-387-9283 for more information, or go to beechmtn.com to view web cams and updates.
