Winter Storm Fern is expected to bring a mix of ice, sleet, and heavy snow from the Southern Plains to the mid-Atlantic states, potentially causing hazardous travel conditions and power outages.

The storm’s path spans from New Mexico to New England, with different regions experiencing varying intensities of wintry precipitation throughout the weekend.

The storm’s development is influenced by an Arctic high-pressure system and a moisture-laden disturbance from the Southwest, creating conditions for significant winter weather.

The storm will progress through distinct phases, with the first wave of wintry precipitation hitting the Southern Plains on Friday and expanding across the region, potentially reaching as far east as Virginia and the Carolinas.

The storm’s most geographically extensive phase is expected on Saturday, with winter weather potentially reaching areas unaccustomed to such conditions, like deeper parts of the south.

Significant ice accumulations pose a threat to public safety and critical infrastructure.  

https://weather.com/storms/winter/news/2026-01-19-rain-snow-ice-mix-south-southeast