Residents are all Competing for the Same Limited Supplies of Salt and Sand' in WNC

Rumbling Bald officials in Lake Lure warned residents and visitors, in a Jan. 28 update, that dangerous road conditions persist across the community following Winter Storm Fern, particularly on secondary and shaded roads that continue to refreeze.

“While primary roads are continuing to improve, many secondary roads and heavily shaded areas remain icy and hazardous,” the Property Owners Association (POA) said in a road conditions and travel advisory issued Wednesday.

Officials stressed that uneven improvement is expected in mountain terrain. “Please understand that not all roads will clear at the same rate,” the statement said. “Even as main routes improve, shaded and secondary roads may remain unsafe for extended periods.”

The POA urged travelers to evaluate conditions before leaving home, especially those without four-wheel-drive vehicles. “If you do not have four-wheel drive and are not experienced driving in icy mountain conditions, travel in certain areas may be difficult or unsafe,” the advisory stated.

Although road crews continue to treat problem areas, officials cautioned that resources and conditions limit what can be accomplished. “No amount of treatment can immediately eliminate ice in persistently shaded and frozen areas,” the statement said.

For public safety, Rumbling Bald officials advised residents to “expect ongoing icy patches on secondary and shaded roads,” to “limit non-essential travel,” and to “use appropriate vehicles and exercise extreme caution.”

Despite staffing challenges, crews have made progress. “Even with a very limited crew, our teams have removed 23 fallen trees from roadways to improve access and safety,” officials said.

Ice melt has been applied in the most hazardous locations, but supplies are nearly exhausted. “A pallet of ice melt is going to be applied today. This is the last pallet we have on hand until a shipment is received tomorrow,” the POA said, adding that treatments are being prioritized “based on overall safety impact and accessibility.”

Officials also emphasized that the situation extends beyond Rumbling Bald. “These conditions are not unique to Rumbling Bald,” the statement said. “Mountain communities across Western North Carolina are experiencing the same prolonged icing and refreezing, and municipalities, HOAs, contractors, and residents are all competing for the same limited supplies of salt and sand.”

The advisory concluded with appreciation for the community’s patience. “We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as conditions continue to gradually improve,” said Liz Geary, senior director of POA operations.