Winter Storm Fern: Ice Storm Watch, Snow Forecast Texas to Carolinas This Weekend | Austin & Houston Weather

A winter storm watch is now in effect as Winter Storm Fern is forecast to develop late this week and impact a vast portion of the United States from Texas through the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic to New England. This snow storm this weekend has the potential to combine heavy snow, widespread ice and hazardous travel conditions for millions of people.

What Is Winter Storm Fern?

Winter Storm Fern refers to a large, strong winter weather system expected from Friday through Sunday that could bring a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain across a broad swath of the U.S. From Texas to the Northeast, the storm may produce both heavy snowfall and ice storm conditions that threaten travel and infrastructure.

Meteorologists are warning of dangerous conditions this weekend, noting that the combination of cold Arctic air with abundant Gulf moisture will fuel the storm’s development.

Forecast Track and Timing

The winter storm forecast track shows the storm forming near the southern Plains on Friday and moving east and northward into the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern U.S. through Sunday.

• Friday: Snow and freezing rain expand across parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and the lower Mississippi Valley.
• Saturday: The system spreads further south toward central and eastern Texas and eastward into Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and the Carolinas.
• Sunday: Snow and ice continue into the Mid-Atlantic and New England, with impacts possible in major cities along the Interstate 95 corridor.

The timing of the Sunday snow storm portion will be critical for travel and outdoor plans, especially in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Snow and Ice Expectations

The storm is expected to create a complex precipitation pattern, where:

• Heavy snow is most likely north of the primary storm track and in colder air masses, especially in parts of the Appalachian region and Northeast.
• Freezing rain and sleet—key features of an ice storm this weekend—are most likely closer to the warm side of the system where temperatures hover around freezing.

This mixing of precipitation types will make forecasting challenging and could lead to rapid switches between snow and ice in some areas.

Specific Regional Forecasts

Texas Weather & Austin/Houston Forecast

In Texas, including Austin weather and Houston weather, the storm’s effects will begin as cold air deepens across the state:

• North Texas, including Dallas-Fort Worth, could see freezing rain and snow starting Friday night and extending into the weekend with temperatures falling well below freezing.
• Austin weather forecasts suggest chances for ice accumulation and subfreezing conditions from Saturday into Sunday, although significant snow is less certain.
• Houston weather forecasts indicate rain transitioning to sleet or freezing rain later in the weekend as Arctic air arrives, though measurable snow in Houston remains unlikely.

These conditions represent a significant departure from typical winter weather in Central and Southeast Texas.

Virginia and Mid-Atlantic Snow Forecast

In Virginia, the weather forecast snow storm Virginia this weekend could bring significant snowfall, especially Sunday into Monday, with totals depending on the exact track of the system.

Broader Weather Impacts

Meteorologists emphasize that beyond snow and ice, the overall weather for this weekend will feature dangerously cold temperatures and strong winds, especially once the storm passes. Persistent sub-freezing temperatures could maintain ice on roads and surfaces well into next week.

This storm’s vast scale has already led to winter storm watches and warnings for large regions, reflecting the potential for widespread impacts.

Precautions and Preparations

With a 10 day forecast showing prolonged cold and wintry conditions, experts recommend:

• Preparing emergency supplies (food, water, warm clothing and heating sources).
• Avoiding travel during peak storm periods, especially on Sunday snow storm days.
• Monitoring forecasts closely, as small changes in the storm’s trajectory can drastically alter local outcomes.

Emergency Measures in Texas

In anticipation of this storm this weekend, the State of Texas has activated a state of emergency and mobilized response resources, including transportation crews and utility support teams to assist with winter weather impacts.

Officials are urging residents to stay updated on local forecast details and heed guidance from emergency management professionals as conditions evolve.

Summary

Winter Storm Fern is poised to become a major snow and ice event affecting millions from Texas to New England. Stay tuned to local weather forecasts, especially if you are in areas under a winter storm watch or where snow and ice are likely to make travel hazardous.