Grocery store shelves across the United States are being rapidly cleared out as Americans brace for the arrival of Winter Storm Fern, a massive weather system forecast to disrupt daily life for millions and bring some of the coldest temperatures seen in years.
From Louisville to Washington, D.C., reports and social media posts show shoppers rushing to stock up on essentials as fears grow over prolonged power outages, impassable roads, and dangerous cold. Major grocery chains in multiple states are seeing empty displays as residents prepare for what forecasters say could be a far-reaching and potentially life-threatening storm.
According to meteorologists, Winter Storm Fern could impact more than 230 million people, roughly two-thirds of the U.S. population. The system is expected to stretch from the Arizona–New Mexico border all the way to upstate New York, making it one of the most geographically expansive winter storms in recent memory.
The National Weather Service warned that “life-threatening cold air” will begin pushing east from the High Plains and the Rocky Mountains starting Friday. In the Northern Plains, wind chills could plunge below minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit, creating conditions that pose serious risks to anyone exposed for even short periods of time.
Ahead of the storm, at least 12 states have already declared states of emergency. Those states include Texas, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, and Missouri. The declarations are intended to allow emergency responders and state agencies to mobilize resources quickly as conditions deteriorate.
In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott activated emergency resources to ensure the state is prepared for the storm’s impact. Texas officials have emphasized readiness after past winter storms exposed vulnerabilities in infrastructure and emergency response systems.
Other governors are also urging residents not to wait until the last minute. North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein encouraged people to take early action, warning that preparation could make the difference if the storm knocks out power or limits access to essential services.
“Please get ready,” Stein said. “Get everything you need in advance of the storm and have a plan in case your power goes out.”
In New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul echoed those concerns, stressing that extreme cold can be just as dangerous as heavy snow or ice. Hochul urged residents to prepare ahead of time, reminding them that severe weather does not spare any region or demographic.
“Extreme cold poses a huge risk,” Hochul said. “It is crucial that New Yorkers take steps to prepare ahead of time to make sure they can stay safe.” She advised people to dress appropriately when outdoors, keep supplies on hand, and closely monitor local weather forecasts.
The combination of dire forecasts and emergency declarations has fueled widespread panic buying, with shoppers prioritizing food, water, batteries, and other household necessities. Images circulating online show bare shelves where staples once stood, reflecting growing anxiety as the storm approaches.
Forecasters continue to stress that the greatest danger may come from the cold itself, particularly for vulnerable populations and those without reliable heating. With Fern expected to impact such a broad swath of the country, officials are urging Americans to take warnings seriously and prepare now rather than scrambling later.
As Winter Storm Fern barrels toward much of the nation, the rush on grocery stores and emergency preparations underscore just how disruptive and dangerous the coming days could be.
