Heatwave Holds Strong, Asheville Resilience Shines

Good morning, this is your Asheville Local Frequency for Thursday, July 24, 2025. It’s a clear start to our Thursday here in Asheville, with cooler morning temps set to give way to highs around 87 later this afternoon. That heatwave is holding strong, so drink plenty of water if you’re heading out and about. Looking ahead, the weekend promises more sunshine with highs inching up to 90, so it’s prime time for all things outdoors. In local news, Asheville Police are reaching out for the community’s help following a weekend robbery and assault at a business on Smokey Park Highway. Two individuals were injured during the early Sunday morning incident, one requiring hospital care. Investigators have released a suspect image and are urging anyone with tips to get in touch and help bring resolution to those affected. On a related note, the city dealt with an early morning shooting at Hillcrest Apartments this week, reminding us that neighborhood safety remains a top concern for residents and officials alike. The area is still feeling aftershocks from Hurricane Helene, as Asheville’s tourism sector faces a noticeable downturn. Many hotels and vacation rentals are reporting fewer visitors. Local businesses that rely on summer crowds are adjusting, especially with damage cleanup ongoing and the Buncombe County landfill now set for expansion to manage storm debris. Despite the challenges, some businesses downtown are bucking the trend and opening their doors, betting on Asheville’s resilience and hometown spirit. Education news underscores persistent gaps as high school graduation approaches, with community leaders pressing for new solutions to ensure every student has a fair shot. Meanwhile, there's a spark of hope as the city continues to rally around local heroes and artists. The community mourns the loss of firefighter Violet Caramella, who died during training this week, and also celebrates the enduring legacy of Betty Lou Morris Warren in Candler. Now for things to do today. Live music fans can make their way to the ExploreAsheville.com Arena tonight, where Widespread Panic takes the stage at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7, and if you want to keep the good vibes going, there’s an official after-party lined up. For those looking for a more relaxed afternoon, catch Moon Eyes playing live from 3 to 5 p.m., or enjoy rootsy tunes at the Rooted Rhythm Concert Series tonight, featuring Asheville’s own Saddle Tramp Band. Wellness professionals, take note: There’s a free networking event at WellSpring Wellness Center this morning on Tunnel Road, starting with guided meditation at 9:30 and rolling into introductions and group networking—perfect for anyone in the health and wellness scene looking to connect. Sports enthusiasts might want to follow the Asheville Tourists, who kicked off their six-game homestand this week at McCormick Field. Though they came up just short in a tight 5-4 game against the Bowling Green Hot Rods Tuesday night, the series has plenty mo This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.