A powerful winter storm is lining up to slam a massive portion of the US 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 possible power outages. Here’s your expert-backed guide to preparing before it arrives.
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When will the storm begin?
According to The Weather Channel, the impending «Winter Storm Fern» is set to begin on Friday in the Southern hemisphere, then move into the Midwest and eventually the East Coast.
«Talks of snow may be exciting, but dangerously cold temperatures bring even more risk this weekend,» The Weather Channel reported in a social media post. «Negative 50 F wind chills in the Plains, and sub-freezing temperatures all the way down to the Gulf Coast pose a life-threatening risk this weekend, especially where snow/ice cause power outages.»
With the storm still days away, predictions can change, so keep an eye on local weather reports for the latest alerts.
How should I prepare?
Now’s the time to act. Make sure you have enough food for the weekend, that your heat is working and that you have a plan if the lights go out.
Here are the items you should stock up on before a storm and how to keep your internet on during a power outage. It’s also smart to create an emergency kit for your vehicle.
Car emergency kit items
The US National Weather Service recommends including the following items in your car:
- Cellphone 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 clothing
- Water and nonperishable snacks
Read more: 6 Simple Ways to Winterize Your Home and Save
Items to have on hand at home
The National Weather Service has a separate list of items to have on hand at home when severe weather threatens:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio to receive emergency information
- Extra food and water such as dried fruit, nuts, granola bars and other food requiring no cooking or refrigeration.
- Extra prescription medicine
- Baby items such as diapers and formula
- First-aid supplies
- Heating fuel: refuel before you are empty; fuel carriers may not reach you for days after a winter storm
- Emergency heat source: fireplace, wood stove or space heater properly ventilated to prevent a fire
- Fire extinguisher, smoke alarm; test smoke alarms monthly to ensure they work properly
- Extra pet food and warm shelter for pets
And in addition to the list, the NWS recommends these tips:
- Review generator safety: Never run a generator in an enclosed space
- Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working correctly and that the outside vent is clear of leaves and debris. During or after the storm, make sure it is cleared of snow.
- Home fires are common each winter when trying to stay warm. Review ways to keep your home and loved ones safe.
How long will the storm last?
Winter Storm Fern is forecast to hit hard through the weekend, with snow and ice potentially lingering into next week. Local forecasts and news should share crucial updates on road conditions.
In some hard-hit places, storm-related problems won’t be resolved by the weekend.
«Potentially hundreds of thousands of people may go without electricity and heat for days,» AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter said. He also predicted that up to 4,000 flights may be canceled this weekend.
How should I protect my outdoor tech during winter storms?
Wondering what to do with outdoor tech in the winter, such as smart cameras, home devices or other electronics? CNET’s home security expert Tyler Lacoma has the answers.
«Always check the IP ratings of your outdoor devices if possible, and bring them inside until after the snow if they are below IP65,» he says. «The good news is that most home devices designed for the outdoors should be fine. If they are in the direct path of high winds or snowfall, try to find shelter for the tech until the storms pass.»
Read more: Protect Your Security Cameras From Winter Weather With My 6 Steps
IP rating refers to a device’s Ingress Protection rating, a standardized way to describe how well a device is protected against the intrusion of solids and liquids, such as ice and snow. You may need to check the manufacturer’s website or instruction manual to determine a rating for a particular device. If you’re unsure, it’s best to bring your tech inside for the weekend or move devices under an awning or porch for protection from the elements.