Winter storm warning: What's coming, who's at risk and how to prepare

This weekend’s storm could affect nearly 200 million people and drop more than 20 inches of snow in some areas, according to several weather reports.

Corin Cesaric is Flex Editor at CNET. She received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Before joining CNET, she covered crime for People Magazine and national and international news on local NBC television.

A powerful winter storm is lining up to hit much of the United States this weekend, and experts say the effects could be severe. Up to 180 million people from Texas to New England could be in the storm’s path, facing snow, ice, freezing temperatures and possibly power outages. Here’s your expert-backed guide to prepare you before it arrives.

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When will the storm start?

According to The Weather Channel, the impending “Winter Storm Fern” is expected to begin Friday in the Southern Hemisphere, then move into the Midwest and possibly the East Coast.

“Talks about snow can be exciting, but dangerously cold temperatures bring even more risks this weekend,” The Weather Channel reported in a social media post. “Negative wind chill of 50 F across the Plains and subzero temperatures to the Gulf Coast pose a life-threatening risk this weekend, especially where snow and ice are causing power outages.”

With the storm still days away, forecasts are subject to change, so keep an eye on local weather reports for the latest alerts.

How should I prepare?

Now is the time to act. Make sure you have enough food for the weekend, your heating is working, and you have a plan in case the lights go out.

Here are the articles you should stock up before a storm And how to keep your internet on during a power outage. It’s also a good idea to create an emergency kit for your vehicle.

Car Emergency Kit Items

The United States National Weather Service recommends including the following in your car:

Mobile phone charger
First aid kit
Jumper cables
Spare tire
Flares
Sand or cat litter
Tow rope
Blankets
Snow shovel and brush
Flashlight
A set of warm clothes
Water and non-perishable snacks

Learn more: 6 Easy Ways to Winterize Your Home and Save Money

Things to have on hand at home

The National Weather Service has a separate list of items to have on hand at home when severe weather threatens:

Flashlight and extra batteries
Battery-powered NOAA weather radio and portable radio to receive emergency information
Additional foods and water such as dried fruits, nuts, granola bars and other foods that do not require cooking or refrigeration.
Additional prescription medications
Baby items such as diapers and formula
First aid supplies
Heating oil: fill up before you run out; fuel carriers may not reach you for days after a winter storm
Emergency heat source: fireplace, wood stove or well-ventilated radiator to prevent fire.
Fire extinguisher, smoke detector; test smoke detectors monthly to make sure they are working properly
Supplementary pet food and warm pet shelter

And in addition to the list, the NWS recommends these tips:

Check generator safety: Never operate a generator in an enclosed space.
Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working properly and the exterior vent is clear of leaves and debris. During or after the storm, make sure it is cleared of snow.
House fires are common every winter when trying to stay warm. Review ways to keep your home and loved ones safe.

How long will the storm last?

Winter Storm Fern is expected to hit hard through the weekend, with potentially lingering snow and ice into next week. Local forecasts and news should share crucial updates on road conditions.

In some hard-hit areas, storm-related issues will not be resolved by the weekend.

“Potentially, hundreds of thousands of people could be without power or heat for several days,” said AccuWeather chief meteorologist Jonathan Porter. He also predicted that up to 4,000 flights could be canceled this weekend.

How should I protect my outdoor equipment during winter storms?

An old security camera outside is covered in snow. — Security cameras can withstand winter conditions, but they may require some preparation beforehand.
TechnicColor via Getty

Wondering what to do with outdoor technology in winter, like smart cameras, home devices, or other electronic devices? CNET home security expert Tyler Lacoma has the answers.

“Always check the IP ratings of your outdoor devices if possible and bring them indoors until the snow stops if they are below IP65,” he says. “The good news is that most home devices designed for the outdoors should work fine. If they are directly exposed to high winds or snowfall, try to find shelter for the technology until the storms pass.”

Learn more: Protect your security cameras from winter weather with my 6 steps

The IP rating refers to a device’s ingress protection rating, a standardized way of describing how well a device is protected against the intrusion of solids and liquids, such as ice and snow. You may need to consult the manufacturer’s website or instruction manual to determine the classification of a particular device. If you’re unsure, it’s best to bring your technology inside for the weekend or move the devices under an awning or porch to protect them from the elements.