Monday, February 09, 2026 — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued urgent Winter Storm Warnings across four states as a powerful weather system, dubbed Winter Storm Fern, slams into the Northeast and Midwest. Forecasters are warning of life-threatening conditions, with some regions expected to receive up to 20 inches of snow and significant ice accretion.
Current Alerts and Impact Areas
As of Monday morning, Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for several states, including Massachusetts, where Boston is currently bearing the brunt of the storm. The NWS defines a Winter Storm Warning as a situation where severe winter conditions have begun or are imminent within the next 24 hours. Unlike a “Watch,” a “Warning” signifies that hazardous weather is a certainty and poses a direct threat to life and property.
Key impacts reported today include:
- Heavy Snowfall: Accumulations of 15 to 20 inches are projected in high-impact zones.
- Ice Hazards: Freezing rain and sleet are creating treacherous driving conditions and threatening power grids in the South and Mid-Atlantic.
- Extreme Cold: In Canada, Environment Canada has issued Yellow Alerts for Toronto and Ottawa, with wind chills reaching dangerous levels near -30°C (-22°F).
Safety and Preparedness Essentials
Emergency management officials are urging residents in the path of the storm to take immediate precautions. According to the Red Cross and FEMA, the following steps are critical during a Winter Storm Warning:
- Stay Indoors: Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. If you must drive, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle including blankets, food, and water.
- Power Outage Readiness: Ensure flashlights and batteries are accessible. If using a generator, NEVER operate it inside a home, garage, or enclosed space due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Heat Safety: Use space heaters with caution and keep them at least three feet away from flammable materials.
- Pet Protection: Bring pets indoors and ensure livestock have access to sheltered areas and non-frozen water.
What to Expect Next
Meteorologists indicate that this active winter pattern is likely to continue throughout the week. While the current “Clipper” system moves through the East, a secondary storm threat is already being monitored for the upcoming weekend. Residents are encouraged to monitor local NWS offices and use interactive radar trackers to stay updated on changing snow totals and road closures.
In Ontario and parts of the northern U.S., the current cold snap is expected to linger through Tuesday, with additional snowfall predicted for mid-week. “Some places will see snow and ice then switch back to snow,” weather experts warned. “That combination of heavy snow and ice accretion is what brings down tree limbs and power lines.”