Millions of residents across the United States are preparing for a severe and potentially life-threatening winter storm system that is forecast to unleash widespread heavy snowfall and damaging ice accumulations over the coming days. The historic weather event, named Winter Storm Fern, is expected to commence on Friday and persist through Monday, creating hazardous conditions along its extensive 1,500-mile trajectory.
Forecast and Warnings
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm is predicted to deliver catastrophic amounts of ice and snowfall exceeding a foot in many regions. Initial impacts are anticipated in Texas and Oklahoma on Friday, with the system then spreading overnight into Arkansas and Tennessee. By Saturday morning, it will push into the Midwest, reaching Alabama, the Carolinas, and Georgia by nightfall.
The massive storm is forecast to bring a crippling ice storm and potentially around a foot of snow from Oklahoma through Washington, DC, New York, and Boston over the weekend. Specific predictions indicate that some areas in the Southern Plains and Midwest could receive more than 12 inches of snow, while many regions, including parts of Arkansas, Louisiana, Alabama, and Tennessee, may experience half an inch or more of ice accumulation.
State and Local Responses
Numerous states and cities have declared states of emergency and activated emergency management protocols in anticipation of the storm's arrival. Authorities are urging residents to limit travel, prepare for power outages, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Key Cities and Impacts
Based on reports and forecasts, here are some of the areas expected to be hardest hit:
- Oklahoma City: Forecasts predict 6 to 10 inches of snow and sleet, with wind chill values potentially dropping to -20°F. City crews are pretreating roads, and police advise residents to stay indoors.
- Dallas/Fort Worth: Life-threatening cold is expected, with ice accumulations up to half an inch and wind chills as low as -10°F. Over 1,000 flights have been canceled at local airports.
- Little Rock: Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders declared a state of emergency, activating National Guard support. The city forecasts 3 to 4 inches of snow and 2 to 3 inches of sleet.
- Nashville: Several inches of snow and ice are forecast, with significant impacts including dangerous travel and potential power outages. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued a state of emergency.
- Cincinnati: At least 8 inches of snow is expected, creating hazardous travel conditions that may persist into next week.
- Pittsburgh: The city is bracing for up to one foot of snow, with officials prioritizing safety and utilizing 8,000 tons of salt for road treatment.
- Charlotte: An ice storm warning is in effect, with up to two inches of snow and sleet and ice accumulations between four tenths and three quarters of an inch, likely causing power outages.
- Richmond: A winter storm watch is active, predicting heavy mixed precipitation that could lead to slick roads and widespread power outages. Governor Abigail Spanberger declared a state of emergency.
- Washington, DC: Mayor Muriel Bowser issued a state of emergency and snow emergency, forecasting 6 to 10 inches of snow with rates over an inch per hour.
- New York: The city could see up to 14 inches of snow, prompting Mayor Zohran Mamdani to activate snow fighting operations. Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for New York State.
- Boston: Forecasts indicate 12 to 18 inches of snow from Sunday into Monday, with police warning college students to be cautious during weekend activities.
Safety Precautions and Advisories
The NWS and local authorities emphasize the severe risks associated with Winter Storm Fern. Dangers include treacherous road conditions, extensive tree damage, prolonged power outages, and brutally cold temperatures. Residents are advised to stay indoors if possible, dress in layers, bring pets inside, protect pipes, and check on neighbors. Travel is expected to be extremely difficult or impossible in many areas, with impacts potentially lasting into the following week.
As the storm progresses, continuous updates from the National Weather Service and local officials will be crucial for public safety. The widespread nature of this event underscores the importance of preparedness and adherence to official guidance to mitigate risks during this significant winter weather outbreak.
