Winter Storm Fern drives mass cancellations and emergency declarations across the U.S.
A fast-moving winter system dubbed “Winter Storm Fern” is disrupting travel and daily life across wide stretches of the United States, triggering emergency actions and thousands of flight cancellations as snow, ice and dangerous cold spread from the Plains toward the Northeast.
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Winter Storm Fern is rippling across the United States and quickly turning into a nationwide disruption, with heavy snow, freezing rain and bitter cold expected to persist through Monday, January 26, 2026. The storm’s track spans multiple regions, and officials have urged residents to prepare for hazardous road conditions, possible power interruptions and rapidly changing forecasts as the system strengthens.
Travel is taking an early hit. Airlines have scrubbed large numbers of flights over the weekend as the storm pushes into major air corridors, leaving many passengers rebooking or rerouting. Airports and carriers are warning that cascading delays can continue even after snowfall eases, because crews and aircraft get displaced and de-icing operations slow turnaround times.
State leaders across the storm’s footprint have issued emergency declarations or heightened alerts to mobilize plows, pretreat highways and coordinate with utilities. Forecasters have cautioned that the most dangerous impacts may vary by location: some areas face heavy snowfall totals, while others are more threatened by ice accumulation that can topple tree limbs and down power lines.
Emergency managers are also emphasizing basic readiness: charging devices, keeping winter supplies in vehicles, and monitoring local guidance about school, government and event closures. For travelers, the practical advice is to check airline waivers, avoid unnecessary driving during peak icing periods, and allow extra time for surface transport to and from airports.
Looking ahead to the remainder of the weekend and into Monday, the storm’s timing and temperature profile will determine where snow transitions to sleet or freezing rain. That boundary can shift, creating pockets of especially treacherous conditions. Authorities continue to stress that staying off the roads during the worst periods is the safest option where ice is forecast.
Even after the main precipitation shield moves out, lingering cold could refreeze meltwater and create black ice. Utilities and public works crews are preparing for a multi-day response, particularly where ice load and wind combine to stress infrastructure.