County of Avery issued the following announcement on Jan. 15.
Winter Storm Izzy could be a potential danger, and as a result of the above–described disaster, I have determined that there is an imminent threat of, or existing conditions have caused or will cause, widespread or severe damage, injury, or loss of life or property, and public safety authorities will be unable to maintain public order or afford adequate protection for lives or property.
Click this link for the proclamation
Original source can be found here.