Winter Storm Fern Unleashes Widespread Disruptions Across US, Delta Cancels Flights

Winter Storm Fern Grips Nation with Snow and Ice

A powerful weather system, designated Winter Storm Fern, has begun its sweep across the United States, bringing significant snowfall, sleet, and damaging ice to a vast portion of the country. The storm, expected to impact over 230 million Americans, commenced its effects in the Southern Rockies and Plains on Friday, January 23, 2026, and is forecast to continue its trajectory through the weekend, reaching the Northeast by January 26.

Extensive Hazardous Conditions Reported

Forecasts from the National Weather Service (NWS) indicate widespread heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain stretching from New Mexico to Maine. The storm's most critical threat in southern regions is expected to be significant and damaging ice accumulations, which could lead to prolonged power outages, treacherous travel conditions, and extensive tree damage. States such as Texas, the lower Mississippi Valley, the Tennessee Valley, northern Georgia, and parts of the Carolinas and Virginia are at high risk for power failures. Temperatures are also expected to drop well below freezing, with wind chills reaching single digits in northern Texas and sub-freezing conditions extending to the Gulf Coast.

Airlines Brace for Major Travel Disruptions

The severe weather has already led to substantial disruptions in air travel. Delta Air Lines has proactively canceled flights in several states, including parts of North Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Tennessee, to ensure the safety of its customers and personnel. Delta is automatically rebooking affected customers and has issued travel waivers, allowing passengers to make changes without additional fees. By Thursday evening, more than 1,400 flights for Friday and Saturday had been canceled across various airlines, with the total expected to rise. Other major carriers, including American Airlines, United, and Southwest, have also issued travel alerts and flexible rebooking policies for airports in the storm's path.

States Declare Emergencies Amid Preparations

In anticipation of the storm's impact, several states have declared states of emergency. These include Virginia, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Arkansas, and Louisiana. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has also issued a disaster declaration for 134 counties. Authorities are urging residents to complete preparations, avoid non-essential travel, monitor local forecasts, and heed advisories as conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is closely monitoring the situation with weather and air traffic experts to maintain flight safety.