Winter Storm Fern has turned deadly as it ravages parts of the United States, with New York City reporting three fatalities linked to the extreme weather. The massive storm is affecting states such as Oklahoma, Kentucky, Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico. In reaction, officials have now issued states of emergency in 16 states and are advising residents to remain alert.
The historic storm’s severity led to almost 10,000 canceled flights across the country, stranding travelers and causing chaos nationwide. In New York City, the mayor triggered a local “code blue.” Now, especially as temperatures begin to drop, teams are being deployed to support unhoused individuals and guide them to available shelter options. Sadly, one of those nights saw three people die on the streets of New York. These weather-related deaths were preventable but each was exacerbated by the frigid conditions.
In a press release, Mayor Eric Adams highlighted the city’s readiness for the extreme weather.
“We’re expecting at least 9′ of snow, followed by extreme cold weather through the end of next week.” – Muriel Bowser
In Oklahoma City, climate change survivors are trying to adjust after the storm’s ravenous touch. Shannon White and JP Davis, both unhoused, walking to a day shelter to get out of the extreme cold. Mobile Snow Library A man was seen in a tire store parking lot, bringing buckets of snow. This image beautifully captures the way the storm forced its will upon daily life.
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme cold warning for all areas impacted. Wind chills may drop to a frigid -5°F (-21°C). Oklahoma’s winter storm warning is in effect until noon on Sunday.
Just days later, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine declared a state of emergency. He urged residents to prepare for “damaging and dangerous” weather this weekend.
“I’m proactively declaring a state of emergency in Ohio due to the damaging and dangerous conditions Winter Storm Fern is expected to bring to our state this weekend.” – Mike DeWine
Meanwhile in Louisville, Mayor Craig Greenberg is preparing for “tolerance for high extremes.” His work embodies the fears echoed by other city leaders in these impacted areas. We feel the urgency for residents to stay safe and protected indoors as local leaders continue to call for public safety in the face of an unfolding storm.
New Jersey’s transit agency strongly advised travelers to avoid non-essential trips for the duration of the suspension.
“Customers should avoid unnecessary travel tomorrow as roads need to remain clear for local, county and state forces to remove snow so service can resume as quickly as it is safe to do so.” – NJ Transit agency
Despite efforts by city officials and emergency services to manage the situation, many residents are ill-prepared for the record snowfall forecasted in less accustomed areas. As the storm moves through, officials are closely monitoring conditions and will keep providing updates to protect the safety of the public.
By early Monday morning, forecasts indicate the most severe of the severe weather should be past. Very light precipitation could linger through the whole day.
“By early Monday morning, the heaviest of the weather will have passed, although some precipitation could continue through the day.” – Mamdani
Winter Storm Fern has disrupted systems across the South and Midwest. It is essential that communities are informed and equipped to deal with increasingly unpredictable and severe weather patterns.