Winter Storm Warning: What’s Coming, Who’s at Risk and How to Prepare

A powerful winter storm is lining up to hit much of the United States this weekend, and experts say the effects could be severe. Up to 180 million people from Texas to New England could be in the storm’s path, facing snow, ice, freezing temperatures and possibly power outages. Here’s your expert-backed guide to prepare you before it arrives.

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When will the storm start?

According to The Weather Channel, the impending “Winter Storm Fern” is expected to begin Friday in the Southern Hemisphere, then move into the Midwest and possibly the East Coast.

“Talks about snow can be exciting, but dangerously cold temperatures bring even more risks this weekend,” The Weather Channel reported in a social media post. “Negative wind chill of 50 F across the Plains and subzero temperatures to the Gulf Coast pose a life-threatening risk this weekend, especially where snow and ice are causing power outages.”

With the storm still days away, forecasts are subject to change, so keep an eye on local weather reports for the latest alerts.

How should I prepare?

Now is the time to act. Make sure you have enough food for the weekend, your heating is working, and you have a plan in case the lights go out.

Below are some elements you should stock up before a storm.

Things to have on hand at home

The National Weather Service has a list of items to have on hand at home when severe weather threatens. In the event of a power outage, make sure you have:

• Flashlights
• A battery powered radio
• Backup batteries for your devices.

Also remember to recharge your power banks to power your cell phone in the event of a breakdown.

A power outage may mean you have to keep your refrigerator closed to prevent your food from going bad, and it may also mean you have no way to cook. It’s also a good idea to keep some drinking water within reach. Consider storing extra foods that don’t need to be cooked or refrigerated, such as dried fruits, nuts and granola bars.

Don’t forget your medical needs. With snow coming, you may not be able to safely get to a pharmacy, so keep on hand:

• Additional Prescription Medications
• First aid supplies

Also keep in mind the little members of your family. Make sure you have baby items, like diapers and formula.. Also have a reserve of pet food and warm pet shelters.

If you have the means to heat your home in the event of a power outage, consider stocking up on:

• Supplies for your fireplace or wood stove
• Fuel, as carriers may not be able to reach you until roads are clear

If your power doesn’t go out, make sure you install your heaters safely to avoid fires. House fires are common in winter as people try to stay warm. Know where your fire extinguisher is and make sure your smoke detectors are working. If you use a generator, never operate it in an enclosed space.

Additionally, the NWS advises you to check your carbon monoxide detectors. Accumulating snowstorms can block vents, so be sure to check your exterior vents for debris when it is safe to do so during and after a storm.

Car Emergency Kit Items

It’s also a good idea to create an emergency kit for your vehicle. The National Weather Service recommends including the following in your car:

• Mobile phone charger
• First aid kit
• Jumper cables
• Spare tire
• Flares
• Sand or cat litter
• Tow rope
• Blankets
• Snow shovel and brush
• Flashlight
• A set of warm clothes
• Water and non-perishable snacks

Learn more: 6 Easy Ways to Winterize Your Home and Save Money

How long will the storm last?

Winter Storm Fern is expected to hit hard through the weekend, with potentially lingering snow and ice into next week. Local forecasts and news should share crucial updates on road conditions.

In some hard-hit areas, storm-related issues will not be resolved by the weekend.

“Potentially, hundreds of thousands of people could be without power or heat for several days,” said AccuWeather chief meteorologist Jonathan Porter. He also predicted that up to 4,000 flights could be canceled this weekend.

How should I protect my outdoor equipment during winter storms?

Wondering what to do with outdoor technology in winter, like smart cameras, home devices, or other electronic devices? CNET home security expert Tyler Lacoma has the answers.

“Always check the IP ratings of your outdoor devices if possible and bring them indoors until the snow stops if they are below IP65,” he says. “The good news is that most home devices designed for the outdoors should work fine. If they are directly exposed to high winds or snowfall, try to find shelter for the technology until the storms pass.”

Learn more: Protect your security cameras from winter weather with my 6 steps

The IP rating refers to a device’s ingress protection rating, a standardized way of describing how well a device is protected against the intrusion of solids and liquids, such as ice and snow. You may need to consult the manufacturer’s website or instruction manual to determine the classification of a particular device.

If you’re unsure, it’s best to bring your technology indoors for the weekend or move the devices under an awning or porch to protect them from the elements.