Historic Ice Storm Fern Poses Grave Danger to Millions Across America
Millions of Americans are preparing for a potentially catastrophic ice storm, with forecasters issuing dire warnings that safety cannot be guaranteed even inside homes. The historic storm, named Fern, is expected to impact approximately 230 million people across 34 states, leading to widespread panic buying and empty store shelves in areas like Washington DC.
Storm Path and Severe Weather Predictions
The storm is projected to commence on Friday in the Southern Rockies, moving eastward throughout the weekend. It will bring a dangerous mix of heavy snow, freezing rain, and sleet across the Southern Plains, including Oklahoma and Texas. By overnight, it will spread into Arkansas and Tennessee, reaching the Midwest by Saturday morning and extending to Alabama, the Carolinas, and Georgia by nightfall. New England will face the storm by Sunday morning, with conditions tapering off in the Northeast by Monday.
Some regions, particularly in the Southern Plains and Midwest, could receive over 12 inches of snow. Additionally, many areas, including parts of Arkansas, Louisiana, Alabama, and Tennessee, may experience half an inch or more of ice accumulation. This level of ice in southern states unaccustomed to harsh winters is likely to topple trees and cripple power lines, resulting in extensive and prolonged power outages.
Expert Warnings and Safety Precautions
Experts have emphasised that venturing outside may be too hazardous, but extended power loss during cold spells also compromises indoor safety. Matt Van Swol, a former nuclear scientist for the US Department of Energy, has urged Americans to prepare proactively. His recommendations include filling gas tanks, charging devices, and stocking up on essentials such as batteries, flashlights, lanterns, blankets, non-perishable food for up to seven days, and at least one gallon of bottled water per person daily. He advises against using candles and recommends dressing in layers indoors to maintain warmth.
Meteorologists warn that freezing rain and ice will make travel extremely difficult or impossible. Major cities along the I-95 corridor, from Washington DC to Boston, could see over a foot of snow, severely disrupting transportation. Airports in Dallas-Fort Worth, Atlanta, Memphis, and Charlotte are expected to face delays due to ice, sleet, and snow, with East Coast hubs likely affected later as the storm progresses.
Political and Climate Context
Amid the preparations, former President Donald Trump commented on the severe weather, questioning climate change experts in a post on his Truth Social platform. He referenced the "record cold wave" and asked, "WHATEVER HAPPENED TO GLOBAL WARMING???" This adds a political dimension to the ongoing discussions about extreme weather events and their implications.
As the storm advances, a blast of cold air from Canada will sweep across the eastern two-thirds of the US, bringing bitterly cold temperatures and dangerous wind chills. In North Dakota, wind chills could plummet to as low as -50°F, posing additional risks to communities from the Southern Plains to the Mid-Atlantic.
With winter storm watches and warnings already in effect for parts of 34 states, and more alerts expected, Americans are urged to stay informed and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this unprecedented weather event.
