A severe winter storm is set to impact the South and East this weekend, bringing significant ice and snow. The storm, named Winter Storm Fern, will affect millions from Texas and Oklahoma to the Carolinas and Mid-Atlantic states.
Winter Storm Alerts Issued
Winter storm watches have already been announced across parts of the South. Areas under winter storm warnings and ice storm warnings can expect the most severe weather conditions. It’s crucial to monitor updates via local weather apps.
Storm Timing and Affected Cities
Friday Forecast
- By Friday morning and early afternoon, snow, sleet, and freezing rain will likely develop across the Southern Plains.
- Affected cities include:
- Lubbock
- Oklahoma City
- Tulsa
- Little Rock
- Memphis
Friday Night Developments
- The wintry mix of precipitation will spread southward into the lower Mississippi Valley and east into the Tennessee Valley.
- Cities likely to be impacted include:
- Albuquerque
- Dallas
- Austin
- Nashville
- Charlotte
Saturday and Saturday Night Projections
- Wintry precipitation may extend farther south into Texas, Louisiana, and Alabama.
- Expected cities for Saturday include:
- San Antonio
- Knoxville
- Philadelphia
- Baltimore
- New York City
Sunday Outlook
- Wintry conditions will start to dissipate in Texas but will continue across Louisiana to the Northeast.
- Cities like Boston and Washington, D.C., may experience lingering precipitation into Sunday night.
Ice Accumulations and Travel Hazards
Forecasts indicate significant ice accumulations, creating hazardous road conditions. In certain regions, the ice buildup may lead to power outages lasting several days. Preparations are essential for those in potentially affected areas.
Snow Accumulation Predictions
Though specific snowfall amounts remain uncertain, various regions may experience substantial accumulations, leading to dangerous travel conditions. Northern Texas and Oklahoma to the mid-Atlantic states are expected to be the hardest hit.
Weather Conditions Setup
The upcoming winter storm is attributed to two main factors. An Arctic high-pressure system will move over the Great Lakes, ushering in cold air. Concurrently, a storm system originating in the Southwest will head east, bringing moisture to the South and creating perfect conditions for winter weather.
Stay updated on this evolving situation as new forecasts are made available throughout the weekend.
