Key Takeaways
- A historic winter storm is sweeping through the United States, affecting over a dozen states and causing hundreds of thousands of people to lose power.
- The storm, dubbed "Winter Storm Fern" by The Weather Channel, is expected to bring heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain to the eastern half of the country.
- The National Weather Service has issued warnings for life-threatening cold temperatures and is advising people to prepare themselves and their pets for the extreme weather.
- Over 130,000 power outages have been reported, with utility companies working to restore electricity to affected areas.
- The American Red Cross is providing guidance on how to stay safe during a power outage, including having emergency preparedness kits and taking steps to stay warm.
Introduction to the Winter Storm
The United States is experiencing a severe winter storm, which has been deemed "historic" by President Donald Trump. The storm has already caused widespread power outages, with over 130,000 households affected, and has prompted the president to approve federal emergency disaster declarations in several states. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for the storm, which is expected to bring heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain to the eastern half of the country. The storm is also expected to bring frigid temperatures, with the weather service advising people to prepare themselves and their pets for "life-threatening cold."
The Storm’s Impact
The winter storm has already had a significant impact on the country, with hundreds of thousands of people affected by power outages and hazardous conditions. The storm has also caused significant disruptions to daily life, with many people forced to stay indoors due to the extreme weather. The National Weather Service has reported that the storm has expanded into the Mid-Atlantic region and is expected to move into the Northeast late Sunday. The agency is warning people in the storm’s path to prepare for "considerable impacts" and to take steps to stay safe.
Naming Winter Storms
The storm has been dubbed "Winter Storm Fern" by The Weather Channel, although the National Weather Service does not name winter storms. The National Weather Service has stated that it has no plans to consider naming winter storms, as they are diverse and can have varying conditions throughout their duration. The agency instead focuses on providing forecasts, watches, and warnings based on specific impacts such as wind conditions, snowfall, ice, temperature, and visibility. This approach is different from the naming system used for hurricanes and tropical cyclones, which is used to help meteorologists and the public distinguish between multiple storms.
Preparing for Power Outages
With power outages expected to continue, the American Red Cross is providing guidance on how to stay safe during a power outage. The organization recommends having emergency preparedness kits that include items such as coolers, ice, water, flashlights, and batteries. It also advises people to keep track of food throughout the duration of the outage and to discard perishable food after four hours without power. Staying warm during a power outage can be challenging, but avoiding opening and closing doors and staying in one room with family and pets can help retain body heat. However, it is not recommended to use a stove or oven to heat the home, as this can pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Conclusion
The winter storm sweeping through the United States is a significant event that requires attention and preparation. With hundreds of thousands of people affected by power outages and hazardous conditions, it is essential to take steps to stay safe. The National Weather Service and other organizations are providing guidance and support to help people navigate the storm, and it is crucial to follow their advice and take necessary precautions. By staying informed and prepared, people can reduce the risks associated with the storm and stay safe until it passes.