Winter Storm Fern Strikes Southern US With Heavy Snow and Ice, 58 Million Warned
January 21, 2026
A major winter storm called Winter Storm Fern will hit large parts of the Southern and Eastern United States this weekend. The storm may bring heavy snow, ice, and freezing rain. It threatens to cause power outages, dangerous roads, and property damage to millions. Over 58 million people are under winter storm warnings. The National Weather Service says the storm is caused by cold Arctic air meeting moist air from the Southwest. On Friday, snow, sleet, and freezing rain will start in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and northern Mississippi. Roads will become very dangerous. By Friday night, the storm will move toward the lower Mississippi Valley, Tennessee Valley, Appalachians, Virginia, and the Carolinas. Saturday will see heavier snow and ice across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee, and the Carolinas. The icy roads may cause power lines and trees to fall. Travel on Saturday will be very risky. By Saturday night, the storm will reach the Texas Gulf Coast and parts of the East Coast, with snow and ice causing more road hazards. On Sunday, the storm will weaken but continue in the Tennessee Valley, Appalachians, Carolinas, and Northeast states. Freezing rain and snow may last into Monday. The biggest danger is ice accumulation that can make roads slippery and cause outages. People are urged to avoid travel, prepare emergency supplies, and stay updated. Storm Fern is rare due to a cold Arctic high-pressure air mass moving south meeting a moist low-pressure system from the Southwest. Residents are advised to monitor weather alerts, avoid travel, prepare for power outages, and ensure heating systems work. This storm may be one of the most serious this season.
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Tags:
Winter Storm Fern
Snowfall
Ice Accumulation
Power outages
Road conditions
Southern Us
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