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Meteorologists are warning Americans to brace for Winter Storm Fern, which is expected to unleash up to 20 inches of snow, sleet, and ice across the eastern half of the United States. The storm, set to hit from Friday (January 23) through the weekend, is predicted to be one of the most severe in recent memory, with widespread power outages and travel disruptions anticipated.
Winter Storm Fern will impact states from the Deep South to the East Coast. The storm is expected to bring a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, with areas like Alabama, Texas, and New Jersey preparing for significant ice accumulation and potential power outages. Weather Channel meteorologist Jordan Steele warned the some areas could go for days without power.
"UGH -- this is not good. Plan now! Plan for going day(s) without power this weekend," he wrote on X. "School cancellations next week. Do not plan a road trip this weekend. This could be a situation where people get stuck on the highway."
The Weather Prediction Center warned that the storm will produce heavy snow and ice from the Southern Rockies to the East Coast. Major travel disruptions are expected, with freezing rain posing a significant threat to power lines and trees. The storm's path will stretch over 1,000 miles, affecting states like Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia.
Cities such as Atlanta, Raleigh, and Charlotte could see a transition from rain to freezing rain and sleet, while Tennessee and western North Carolina are likely to experience mostly snow. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm watches for several states, and additional alerts are expected as the storm approaches.
Meteorologists urge residents to prepare for the storm by securing necessary supplies and checking on vulnerable neighbors. With the potential for prolonged power outages and hazardous road conditions, experts recommend staying informed through local forecasts and planning for possible school and business closures.