States in the US declare emergencies as a historic winter storm brings snow, ice, and dangerously low temperatures

Severe Winter Storm Prompts Emergency Declarations

States like Texas, North Carolina, and South Carolina have proactively declared states of emergency as a significant winter storm is anticipated to sweep across the U.S. this weekend, bringing heavy snow, freezing rain, and ice.

In response to the looming storm, three states have mobilized emergency measures. The national weather bureau issued warnings indicating that “nearly everyone east of the Rocky Mountains” will face snow, ice, or cold weather starting Friday and potentially continuing into early next week.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott indicated that an intense arctic blast could bring dangerously low temperatures on Tuesday, resulting in hazardous travel conditions for both northern and central Texas.

Following Texas’ lead, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein declared an emergency and urged residents to “prepare” for the incoming storm. He emphasized the importance of gathering supplies and having a contingency plan in case of power outages.

Governor Henry McMaster of South Carolina made a similar declaration, activating the National Guard to assist local emergency services in preparation and response efforts. He reassured that state officials are gearing up and ready to support communities should the situation escalate.

Beyond these states, many others are monitoring the storm closely and issuing warnings, as this potentially historic winter weather system is projected to impact over 175 million individuals across the country.

Late on Wednesday, New York Governor Cathy Hochul cautioned that residents should brace for extreme cold and persistent lake-effect snow. Wind chill factors are expected to plunge below freezing, with harsh temperatures likely lingering into the weekend and beyond.

She stressed the risks of extreme cold, urging New Yorkers to dress appropriately and stay informed about local weather updates, underscoring the unpredictable nature of severe weather.

The frigid air mass is set to peak later in the week, with temperatures in New York City potentially dropping to the low teens. Some areas of the Midwest, including Chicago and parts of Michigan, may also experience intense cold.

New York City could receive over a foot of snow, marking the heaviest accumulation since February 2021 when Central Park recorded significant snowfall.

In Maryland, Governor Wes Moore has also taken action, advising residents to stay informed and be prepared for hazardous conditions as the storm approaches. He issued a state of preparedness to ensure comprehensive readiness against the potential impacts of the winter weather system.

Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia has similarly recommended that residents stock up on essentials, keep their gas tanks full, and prepare for possible power outages, reminding everyone to be proactive about winter weather preparedness.

Forecasters have warned that “Winter Storm Fern” could bring extremely low temperatures to numerous cities, with some areas in the eastern U.S. potentially seeing snowfall of 1 to 2 feet.

Major air travel hubs—including Dallas, Atlanta, Memphis, and Charlotte—are expected to face disruptions due to the storm, while meteorologists caution that the rapid temperature drops in the Midwest and Northern Plains could lead to unexpected tree damage.