Appalachia Daily Update - January 21, 2026

🚨 The Threat: Ice Storm WarningMeteorologists are forecasting significant ice accumulation (0.25” to 0.50”) for Western North Carolina and North Georgia.* Timing: Precipitation begins Friday; freezing likely Friday night into Saturday.* Impact: High risk of widespread power outages due to ice loading on trees and lines. Travel will likely be impossible.💧 The “Well Water” RuleIf you rely on a well, your water supply is dependent on electricity.* Action: Fill your bathtub and spare containers NOW.* Why: You will need this water to manually flush toilets (pour a bucket into the bowl) and for basic hygiene if the power is out for 2–4 days.* Drinking Water: Store at least one gallon of clean drinking water per person, per day.⚡ Power & Heat Safety* Generators: NEVER operate a generator indoors, in a garage, or on a covered porch. Carbon monoxide is odorless and deadly. Keep generators at least 20 feet from the home.* Heat Sources: Do not use gas ovens or stovetops for heat. If using a fireplace, ensure the flue is open and the chimney is clear.* Conservation: If power fails, close off unused rooms. Set up a “warm room” (usually the living room) where the family sleeps and stays together to conserve body heat.🚗 Travel: The “Stay Put” Protocol* Deadline: Complete all errands (pharmacy, grocery, feed store) by Thursday evening.* Roads: Ice makes mountain roads, especially steep driveways and secondary roads, impassable. 4WD does not help on solid ice.* Emergency: If you absolutely must drive Friday morning, pack an emergency kit with blankets, food, and water.Sources* NWS Winter Safety: https://www.weather.gov/jan/winterweathersafety* Power Outage Prep: https://apps.oregon.gov/oregon-newsroom/OR/OEM/Posts/Post/Navigating-a-Winter-Power-Outage-Essential-Steps-to-Stay-Safe-and-Warm* Ready.gov Ice Storms: https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2024-08/ready-gov_winter-storm_info-sheet.pdfAppalachia Daily Update (ADU) is produced by RiverRun.Digital. Stay safe and stay connected at https://go.riverrun.digital. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit adu.riverrun.digital