What started as a routine winter weather alert has quickly spiraled into a dangerous, fast-moving crisis stretching from the Deep South to the Upper Midwest.
Winter Storm Fern continues to batter large parts of the U.S., combining life-threatening cold, heavy snow, icy roads, and even tornado threats—all at once.
Death Toll Climbs as Extreme Cold Tightens Its Grip
Officials now confirm at least eight deaths linked to the storm as freezing conditions worsen.
Three people were found dead in New York City, while Louisiana reported two fatalities tied directly to the cold.
Tennessee authorities confirmed one death following a series of storm-related vehicle crashes.
Beyond the fatalities, the storm has caused widespread injuries.
Tennessee state troopers reported 18 people hurt in weather-related collisions on Saturday alone, underscoring just how treacherous travel conditions have become.
Tornado Threat Added to an Already Dangerous Mix
While snow and ice dominate much of the country, the South is facing an entirely different hazard.
The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for parts of Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, warning residents to stay alert until at least 6 p.m. CST on Sunday.
Forecasters say a few tornadoes could develop, along with hail as large as half an inch.
Wind gusts could reach up to 70 mph, adding to the already volatile weather pattern moving through the region.
Bone-Chilling Temperatures Push Conditions to the Extreme
Temperatures across the South have dropped into the 10–30°F range, cold enough to cause ice buildup on roads and power lines.
Farther north, conditions are even more severe—Minnesota has recorded jaw-dropping lows of minus 20°F, making prolonged outdoor exposure extremely dangerous.
Emergency officials continue to urge residents to limit travel, bundle up, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Businesses and Services Adjust as Storm Disrupts Daily Life
As conditions worsen, companies and local governments are making rapid changes.
DoorDash has introduced a temporary “Weather Impact Fee” in storm-affected areas, saying the extra charge helps fairly compensate drivers navigating hazardous roads.
In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has strongly encouraged businesses to allow employees to work remotely on Monday.
She warned that ongoing snowfall and icy conditions could make commuting unsafe across much of the state.
Snow Totals Rise Across the Tri-State Area
Snow continues to pile up in the Northeast. Parts of New York City have already seen up to four inches of accumulation, while sections of New Jersey are reporting two to three inches.
Officials caution that even modest snowfall can cause major disruptions when paired with freezing temperatures and poor visibility.
Ferry Service Suspended as Visibility Drops
New York City’s ferry system has been largely shut down due to deteriorating conditions.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani confirmed that most ferry routes are suspended until further notice.
The Staten Island Ferry, however, is running on an hourly schedule—only as long as visibility allows safe operation.
Schools Shut Down as Safety Takes Priority
In North Carolina, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools announced a full closure for Monday.
The shutdown includes all classes and school-related activities, including before- and after-school programs, as officials prioritize student and staff safety.
Road Conditions Remain Hazardous Nationwide
Icy roads continue to cause chaos, with incidents reported across several states.
In one alarming moment, a South Carolina trooper was seen sliding on an ice-covered roadway, highlighting the dangers facing even trained emergency responders.
City Tools Help Residents Track Snow Cleanup
New Yorkers looking for updates on snow removal can turn to the city’s PlowNYC tool.
The live map allows residents to check whether their street has been plowed and provides real-time sanitation updates based on location.
Viral Moments Capture the Storm’s Wild Side
Despite the danger, the storm has produced moments that grabbed national attention.
In Philadelphia, one driver was spotted racing through snow-covered streets in a small buggy, blasting music and narrowly avoiding crashes near City Hall—a risky stunt that quickly went viral.
Some Americans Find Joy Amid the Snow
Not everyone is hunkering down indoors.
Across the country, people have been spotted sledding, building snowmen, and turning the storm into an unexpected winter playground.
Still, officials stress that fun should never come at the cost of safety.
What Comes Next?
Forecasters say Winter Storm Fern is far from finished.
With snow, ice, extreme cold, and severe weather threats all still in play, millions remain under advisories and warnings.
Authorities urge residents to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and prepare for rapidly changing conditions as the storm continues its relentless march.
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