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10 Feb 2026


US affected by winter storm Fern

Northeast faces heavy snow, South battles ice as frigid temperatures continue

A powerful winter storm named Fern is sweeping across the United States, leaving millions of residents struggling with heavy snow, ice, and dangerously low temperatures. The storm has already affected over 220 million people across 34 states, stretching from the South and Midwest to the Northeast, making it one of the largest winter systems this season.

In the Northeast, communities are facing heavy snowfall, with forecasts warning of up to a foot of snow in parts of New York, Pennsylvania, and New England. Coastal areas may experience a mix of rain and freezing rain, creating slick roads and hazardous travel conditions. Thousands of flight cancellations have been reported at major airports, and officials are urging residents to avoid non-essential travel as icy roads and poor visibility make commuting extremely dangerous.

Meanwhile, the South and Mid-Atlantic are contending with significant ice accumulation. States like Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Georgia have seen power outages, downed trees, and impassable roads. Emergency declarations have been issued in multiple states to help communities cope with the disruptions. Even after the snow and ice subside, officials warn that temperatures will remain well below normal, prolonging hazards on roads and increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.

The storm has already had tragic consequences, with several deaths reported from hypothermia and traffic accidents. Local authorities continue rescue operations in affected areas, urging residents to stay indoors where possible and prepare for potential extended power outages.

Meteorologists emphasize that Winter Storm Fern is a large, complex system combining heavy snow, freezing rain, and frigid Arctic air. The combination of ice, snow, and strong winds has created extremely dangerous conditions across multiple regions, highlighting the storm’s severity and scale.

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