Story perspectives

Winter Storm Fern: Duke Energy Prepares for Widespread Outages

1/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

Duke Energy is mobilizing thousands of workers across the Carolinas for Winter Storm Fern, with severe weather starting January 23.
The company urges customers to expect multiday outages and hazardous travel conditions.
Restoration efforts may be delayed by blocked roads and hazardous working conditions.
In Ohio, power companies warn of outages from heavy snow and ice and urge outage reporting.

History

Historical Context

The Winter Storm of 1993, known as the "Storm of the Century," struck the eastern United States from March 12 to 15, causing over 10 million power outages and resulting in 318 fatalities. This storm highlighted the vulnerabilities of infrastructure, prompting companies like Duke Energy to enhance emergency preparedness. Lessons from past storms, including the 2002 North Carolina ice storm, continue to shape responses to severe weather events today.

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Story summary

Duke Energy is mobilizing thousands of workers across the Carolinas for Winter Storm Fern, with severe weather starting January 23.
The company urges customers to expect multiday outages and hazardous travel conditions.
Restoration efforts may be delayed by blocked roads and hazardous working conditions.
In Ohio, power companies warn of outages from heavy snow and ice and urge outage reporting.

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