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  • Appalachia Daily Update — Monday, January 26, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update — Monday, January 26, 2026
    Jan 26 2026

    Welcome back to the Appalachia Daily Update. Today we are balancing a serious winter weather emergency with a look at local business growth and specific updates for our core counties. Stay warm and stay safe, neighbors.

    Weather and Safety: State of Emergency in Cherokee County

    A local State of Emergency has been declared for Cherokee County, NC. Emergency management is warning of potentially catastrophic ice accumulations. Warming stations are active at the Detention Center lobby in Murphy and Peachtree Fire & Rescue.Sources

    * 2026-01-23 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-regional/state-emergency-declared-cherokee-county-ahead-storm

    * 2026-01-26 | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=35.06590&lon=-84.0993

    New Business Monday: Southern Samaritans (Andrews, NC)

    For our New Business Monday spotlight, we are welcoming Southern Samaritans to the Andrews community. Having held their official ribbon cutting on January 9, 2026, this new organization on Teas Street is dedicated to providing humanitarian aid and community-focused support services. In a month defined by winter challenges, having a new neighbor dedicated to helping those in need is a major win for the region.Sources

    * 2026-01-09 | https://allevents.in/andrews/southern-samaritans-ribbon-cutting/200029410758220

    * 2026-01-26 | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575580895852

    Regional Closures: Monday, Jan. 26

    The following districts are closed or delayed today due to hazardous road conditions:

    * Cherokee County (NC) Schools: CLOSED

    * Fannin County (GA) Schools: CLOSED

    * Union County (GA) Schools: CLOSED

    * Clay County (NC) Schools: 2-Hour DelaySources

    * 2026-01-25 | https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/school-closings-these-districts-canceling-going-virtual-monday/7WVXQGP7YRGPVA77SJZ4HHMBSE/

    * 2026-01-26 | https://www.unioncountyga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=111

    County & Town Spotlight: Clay, Union, Fannin, and Turtletown

    * Clay County, NC: School Board Meeting scheduled for 6:00 PM tonight. 4-H programs recently received $1,000 in matching grant funds to support youth livestock projects.

    * Union & Fannin, GA: Major resurfacing projects and infrastructure updates are slated for late January. GDOT crews have been brining roads throughout the weekend in preparation for the ice storm.

    * Turtletown, TN: Under a statewide State of Emergency issued by Gov. Bill Lee. TDOT and the Tennessee National Guard are staged for winter response to assist stranded motorists and clear debris on Highway 64.Sources

    * 2026-01-26 | https://www.clayschools.org/

    * 2026-01-24 | https://www.tn.gov/governor/news/2026/1/24/trump-administration-grants-tennessee-s-emergency-declaration-to-support-winter-weather-response.html

    * 2026-01-24 | https://www.claycountygov.com/Home/Components/News/News/550/1512

    Appalachia Daily Update is your hyper-local community newscast for the mountains of Western North Carolina and North Georgia. Produced by RiverRun.Digital. Take care of your neighbors, and they will take care of you. https://go.riverrun.digital



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    3 min
  • Appalachia Daily for January 24, 2026 - Winter Storm Emergency: The Ultimate Rural Survival Guide

    Appalachia Daily for January 24, 2026 - Winter Storm Emergency: The Ultimate Rural Survival Guide
    Jan 24 2026
    The Appalachia region is currently facing a historic winter storm. For our communities around Murphy, Blairsville, and Blue Ridge, this isn’t just about snow on the ground; it’s about significant ice accumulation that can snap power lines and leave households without electricity or water for days. When you live in rural areas, you can’t always rely on a quick response from the power company. You have to be your own first responder.This guide is designed to help you protect yourself in your house, your vehicle, and when you absolutely have to step outside.Part 1: Protecting Your Home (The “Stay In” Strategy)If the power goes out and you rely on electricity for heat and water, your home can become a freezer very quickly. Here is how to handle a long-term outage.1. The Water Crisis: Well Pumps and Gravity FlushesIf you have a well, your water pump runs on electricity. No power means no pump.* The Bucket Hack: Fill several 5-gallon buckets and place them directly next to your toilets. You can flush a toilet without a pump by pouring about two gallons of water into the bowl very quickly. The weight of the water forces the “flush” through. This is much more efficient than trying to refill the tank manually through the back.* Preserving Pressure: Before the power goes out, fill every clean pitcher, mason jar, and pot you own with drinking water. Once the pump stops, the pressure in your tank will only give you a few more gallons. Use it wisely.* Drip the Faucets: Even if the power is out, keep your faucets open slightly if you have any residual pressure. Moving water is much harder to freeze. It prevents pipes from bursting as the house cools below 32 degrees.* Hot Water Tank Reserve: In a true emergency, remember your hot water heater holds 30 to 50 gallons of relatively clean water. Most have a drain valve at the bottom.2. Heating Without a Heater: The Micro-ClimateWhen your HVAC system stops, don’t try to heat the whole house. It’s a losing battle.* The Indoor Tent: Set up a camping tent in the smallest room of your house (like a bedroom). The small space traps your body heat. Inside a tent, the air can be 10 to 15 degrees warmer than the rest of the room. If you don’t have a tent, build a “fort” out of blankets over a table.* Closing Off Rooms: Use towels or pool noodles to block the gaps under doors. Hang heavy blankets or even plastic sheeting over windows and doorways to keep the heat in one “survival room.”* Layer Up: Wear wool or synthetic layers. Avoid cotton if you get sweaty, as it will make you colder. Remember: “Cotton is rotten” in winter survival.* Safety Warning: Never use outdoor propane heaters, charcoal grills, or gas ovens to heat your home. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer and collects in enclosed spaces. If you use a wood stove, make sure your chimney was swept recently to avoid flue fires.3. Food Safety: Freezer Thermal MassRural neighbors often have freezers full of local meat. Protecting that investment is critical.* Freezer Tetris: A full freezer stays frozen for 48 hours. A half-full one only lasts 24.* Ice Batteries: Right now, fill every empty gap in your freezer with jugs of water. Leave an inch of space at the top so the ice can expand. As they freeze, they create “thermal mass.” If the power goes out, these ice blocks keep your food cold for much longer.* Group Your Food: If the outage lasts more than 24 hours, move the most expensive items (like beef and venison) to the very center of the freezer, surrounded by your new “ice batteries.”* Keep it Closed: Every time you open the freezer to “check,” you lose precious cold air. Leave it shut. If you need to know the temperature, use a wireless thermometer if you have one.4. Power and Generators: The Back-Feeding DangerGenerators are great, but they can be deadly if used incorrectly.* No Back-Feeding: NEVER plug a generator into a wall outlet to power your house. This sends electricity back into the grid lines. It can kill a utility worker trying to fix the storm damage down the street. It’s not just a rule; it’s a life-or-death matter for the crews.* Placement: Keep your generator at least 20 feet away from the house. Exhaust can seep through windows or under doors. Rain and ice can also cause electrical shorts, so use a “generator tent” or a specific cover designed for operation in wet weather.* Appliance Priority: Don’t try to run the whole house. Prioritize the fridge, a single lamp, and charging devices. Heavy draws like space heaters will burn through your fuel too fast.Part 2: Your Vehicle (The “Get Home” Strategy)In the mountains, our roads are winding, steep, and often the last to be plowed.* The 4WD Myth: Four-wheel drive helps you go; it does not help you stop. On ice, everyone is equal. If you don’t have weight in the back of your truck, add sandbags or even bags of salt over the rear axle to improve traction.* The Car Kit: Keep blankets, a small shovel, a ...
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    4 min
  • Appalachia Daily Update — Friday, January 23, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update — Friday, January 23, 2026
    Jan 23 2026

    Weather Alert: State of Emergency Declared

    Governor Stein has declared a State of Emergency for North Carolina ahead of a winter storm. We expect rain to transition into freezing rain and sleet starting Saturday morning in Area 1. Dangerous wind chills are forecasted for Monday. Use today to prepare and stay off the roads once the ice begins to accumulate.

    Sources

    2026-01-23 | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Murphy&state=NC

    2026-01-21 | https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2026/01/21/governor-stein-declares-state-emergency-ahead-winter-storm

    Soundcheck Friday: Weekend Live Music

    The mountains are full of music tonight. Here is the local lineup:

    * Blairsville: Mike Lane at The Flying Trout (6–9 PM).

    * Blue Ridge: Weekend sets at Grumpy Old Men Brewing (7–9 PM).

    * Murphy: Hunter Flanagan at The Mason Bar.

    Sources

    2026-01-23 | https://www.flyingtroutblairsville.com/events

    2026-01-22 | https://grumpyoldmenbrewing.com/music%2Fevents

    2026-01-23 | https://www.facebook.com/themasonbar/

    New Music: “Dirt Road Dreams” by D.Wayne Anthony

    Local artist D.Wayne Anthony has released a soulful new track that captures the spirit of our backroads. It is a tribute to the history and freedom found in every bend of the mountain gravel.

    Sources

    2026-01-23 | https://music.Riverrun.digital/Dirt-Road-Dreams

    2026-01-23 | https://music.Riverrun.digital/WayneAnthony

    Community & Sports

    * Brasstown: Bluegrass Week kicks off Monday at the John C. Campbell Folk School.

    * Basketball: Fannin County Rebels (18-1) continue their dominant run while Union County preps for a heavy-hitting regional matchup.

    Sources

    2026-01-21 | https://www.folkschool.org/events/

    2026-01-22 | https://www.maxpreps.com/ga/blue-ridge/fannin-county-rebels/basketball/



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    4 min
  • Appalachia Daily Update — Thursday, January 22, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update — Thursday, January 22, 2026
    Jan 22 2026

    Weather & Safety: Sunny and Mild

    It’s a “Chamber of Commerce” weather day for Murphy and Blue Ridge, with sunshine and highs in the 50s.

    * Safety Check: Fire danger is currently low, but dry air and low humidity mean extra caution with outdoor burning.

    * Sources:

    * 2026-01-22 | https://products.climate.ncsu.edu/fwip/nc_danger/

    * Undated | https://weatherspark.com/h/m/15680/2026/1/Historical-Weather-in-January-2026-in-Blue-Ridge-Georgia-United-States

    Rivalry Night: Murphy @ Robbinsville

    The Murphy Bulldogs travel to Graham County tonight to face the Robbinsville Black Knights.

    * Details: Boys Varsity listed for 8:30 p.m. Expect a capacity crowd.

    * Sources:

    * 2026-01-22 | https://www.maxpreps.com/nc/murphy/murphy-bulldogs/basketball/schedule/

    Sports Recap: Fannin County Wins Big

    The Fannin County Rebels boys basketball team picked up a decisive win over Armuchee on Wednesday.

    * Scoreboard: Fannin County 68, Armuchee 25.

    * Sources:

    * 2026-01-21 | https://www.maxpreps.com/ga/blue-ridge/fannin-county-rebels/basketball/

    Local Legend: Donald Davis at Folk School

    Renowned storyteller Donald Davis will be performing next week (Jan 26–28) as part of the John C. Campbell Folk School’s Centennial.

    * Why it matters: Davis is a cornerstone of Appalachian oral tradition. Performances are free and open to the public.

    * Sources:

    * 2026-01-22 | https://www.folkschool.org/events/centennial-celebration/

    * 2026-01-07 | https://thelaurelofasheville.com/latest-news-and-updates/storyteller-donald-davis-to-appear-at-john-c-campbell-folk-school/

    Community: Thursday Night Karaoke

    Grumpy Old Men Brewing in Blue Ridge hosts their weekly Karaoke night tonight.

    * Sources:

    * 2026-01-22 | https://www.blueridgemountains.com/events/

    Produced by RiverRun.Digital. Taking care of neighbors, one update at a time.

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    4 min
  • Appalachia Daily Update - January 21, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update - January 21, 2026
    Jan 21 2026

    🚨 The Threat: Ice Storm Warning

    Meteorologists 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” Rule

    If 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.pdf

    Appalachia 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
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    2 min
  • Appalachia Daily Update — Tuesday, January 20, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update — Tuesday, January 20, 2026
    Jan 20 2026

    Weather and Safety: High Fire Danger Alert

    Stiff winds and low humidity have triggered a high fire danger alert for today. Residents are reminded that a 48-hour burn ban is currently in effect for the Murphy area and Cherokee County.Sources2026-01-20 | https://forecast.weather.gov

    Civic Update: Cherokee County Commissioners Meeting

    The Board of Commissioners will hold its first regular meeting of the month tonight at 6:30 p.m. at the Cherokee County Courthouse in Murphy.Sources2026-01-20 | https://www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov/Calendar

    Community Spotlight: Project Chimps “Cheers for Chimps”

    Project Chimps is hosting a fundraiser tonight at Mountain Mama’s Coffee Lounge in Blue Ridge. The event features a Q&A session to support the chimpanzee sanctuary in Morganton.Sources2026-01-20 | https://projectchimps.org/events/

    Community Spotlight: Fannin County Animal Control Volunteer Drive

    Local volunteers are needed to assist with animal care and adoption events during the winter season.Sources2026-01-19 | https://www.fannincountyga.com/animal-control

    Community Spotlight: Winter Support Resources

    Fannin County Family Connection has released updated information regarding heating assistance and food pantry availability for residents during the winter stretch.Sources2026-01-18 | https://www.google.com/search?q=https://fannin.gafamilyconnection.org

    Appalachia Daily Update is your hyper-local community connection for Murphy, Andrews, Hayesville, Hiawassee, Blairsville, and Blue Ridge. Take care of your neighbors, and they will take care of you.

    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
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    4 min
  • Appalachia Daily Update – January 17, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update – January 17, 2026
    Jan 17 2026
    Clay County Bans Commercial Data CentersClay County commissioners unanimously enacted an ordinance prohibiting commercial data centers in unincorporated areas following a public hearing with strong community support.The decision addresses concerns over energy demands, water use, noise, infrastructure strain, and preservation of the county’s rural character.Sources:* https://www.claycountyprogress.com/local-newsletter/commission-agrees-data-centers-not-wanted-hereNews as of: January 14, 2026.Pretrial Inmate Dies at Cherokee County Detention CenterA pretrial inmate at the Cherokee County Detention Center passed away on Thursday after being transported to Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital due to abdominal discomfort.The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is conducting a standard review of the incident.Sources:* https://www.local3news.com/local-news/cherokee-co-detention-center-inmate-dies-thursday/article_03bda861-c7b9-4d3e-a264-94baab73656d.htmlNews as of: January 15, 2026.Graham County Selected for 2026 U.S. Census TestGraham County has been chosen as part of the Western North Carolina test site (including Cherokee, Jackson, Swain counties, and the Qualla Boundary) for the 2026 U.S. Census Test.This initiative aims to refine census processes ahead of the 2030 count, with field operations beginning in March 2026.Sources:* https://www.grahamstar.com/local-regional-newsletter/graham-county-selected-part-2026-test-censusNews as of: January 2026.Small Plane Crash in Polk CountyA small aircraft crashed Tuesday on Cookson Creek Road in Polk County, Tennessee. The pilot sustained minor injuries and was able to walk away.The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause.Sources:* https://www.local3news.com/local-news/small-plane-crashes-in-polk-county-tuesday/article_c2da6d56-bdc8-4e16-b660-2600a2519cda.htmlNews as of: January 13, 2026.Fatal Collision on U.S. 64An early morning collision between two pickup trucks on U.S. 64 in Peachtree on January 9 resulted in the death of a Murphy father of three, with two others injured.The North Carolina State Highway Patrol continues its investigation.Sources:* https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-newsletter/collision-kills-murphy-father-3News as of: January 13, 2026.Murphy Bulldogs Sweep Summit CharterThe Murphy High School boys and girls basketball teams both defeated Summit Charter Academy in recent home games with strong performances.These victories highlight local high school athletic talent and bring excitement to the Cherokee County community.Sources:* https://www.cherokeescout.com/sportsNews as of: January 6, 2026.Weekend Community ActivitiesThe Peachtree Community Development Club hosted Grocery Bingo on Friday night, offering residents a fun opportunity to win groceries and household items in a friendly gathering.Additional weekend events may be ongoing—check the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce calendar for more local activities.Sources:* https://www.cherokeecountychamber.com/events-calendarNews as of: January 16, 2026.Trail Spotlight Saturday: Chattooga River Ranger District Road ClosuresThe U.S. Forest Service has temporary road closures in the Chattooga River Ranger District due to slides. Drivers should avoid affected forest roads and barricades, and plan alternate routes in areas with limited cell service.As a reliable alternative, Brasstown Bald provides access to Georgia’s highest point with panoramic views across four states via a paved summit trail or shuttle.Sources:* https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/chattahoochee-oconee/alerts* https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/chattahoochee-oconee/recreation/brasstown-bald-visitor-information-centerNews as of: January 14, 2026.Where to listen and follow* Substack – https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Substack* Apple Podcasts – https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Apple* Amazon Music – https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-Amz* Spotify – https://go.riverrun.digital/ADU-SpotifyNotes, methods, and rightsThis Appalachia Daily Update was created with the help of AI tools working alongside a human editor.All information is drawn from publicly available sources listed above.Rights for the Appalachia Daily Update are reserved by River Run Digital, which produces hyper local news for small towns across Appalachia and beyond.To learn more about River Run Digital and its local news projects, visithttps://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
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    4 min
  • Appalachia Daily Update Wednesday, January 14, 2026

    Appalachia Daily Update Wednesday, January 14, 2026
    Jan 14 2026

    Murphy – Grocery Bingo Night at Peachtree Community Center

    News Date: 2026-01-14Bring the whole family for Bingo Night this Friday, January 16. You’ll compete for pantry staples instead of cash and help support the Peachtree Community Center funds.

    Sources:

    * 2026-01-14 | https://www.facebook.com/PeachtreeCommunityCenter

    Marble – Cherokee County Schools Board of Education Meeting Announced

    News Date: Undated (agenda center posting active January 2026)The Board meets on February 5 at the Central Office in Marble. Discussion items include routine operations and school updates for the spring semester.

    Sources:

    * Undated | https://www.cherokee.k12.nc.us/board

    Hiawassee – GBI Corruption Probe Leads to Arrests

    News Date: 2026-01-06The GBI confirmed the arrests of two Towns County Sheriff’s Office officials in a corruption investigation. The agency says the inquiry is ongoing and aimed at maintaining public trust.

    Sources:

    * 2026-01-06 | https://gbi.georgia.gov/press-releases

    Copperhill – Board of Mayor and Aldermen Meeting Jan 20

    News Date: Undated (city event page)Copperhill City Hall hosts its regular meeting on Tuesday, January 20, at 5:30 p.m. Residents can address local matters and hear department updates.

    Sources:

    * Undated | https://www.copperhilltn.gov/events

    Turtletown – Trail Reminder for Winter Visitors

    News Date: 2026-01-13 (last updated trail page)Hikers are reminded to expect icy conditions and limited parking at the lower lot near Turtletown Falls. Allow extra time and pack accordingly.

    Sources:

    * 2026-01-13 | https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cherokee/recreation

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    All content verified with publicly available sources as of January 14, 2026.



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    5 min