Devastating Winter Storm Fern Leaves Tennessee and Mississippi in Crisis

Winter Storm Fern has wreaked havoc across the southeastern United States, particularly affecting Tennessee and Mississippi. The storm, which began on January 24, 2026, has resulted in at least 50 confirmed deaths across multiple states, with significant fatalities reported in Tennessee and Mississippi. The storm has caused widespread power outages, with Nashville Electric Service (NES) reporting a peak of over 230,000 customers without power, marking the largest outage in its history.

Pray for Tennessee as Power Outages and Ice Damage Reach Levels Not Seen Since 1994

In Tennessee, the storm's aftermath has led to ongoing power outages, with over 100,000 customers still without electricity days after the storm. Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell described the situation as "historic," emphasizing the unprecedented scale of the outages. The storm has also resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities due to hypothermia, carbon monoxide poisoning, and accidents related to the severe weather conditions.

Pray for Tennessee as Power Outages and Ice Damage Reach Levels Not Seen Since 1994

In Mississippi, Governor Tate Reeves confirmed that the death toll had risen to 10, with additional reports of structural damage and widespread power outages affecting over 99,000 customers. The state has mobilized resources to assist affected communities, including the National Guard.

Mississippi winter storm deaths climb, more dangerous cold weather ahead

Power restoration efforts have faced significant challenges due to the extent of the damage. NES has deployed over 900 line workers from various states, but criticism has emerged regarding the utility's preparedness and response. Reports indicate that NES may have turned away offers of assistance from union linemen, raising concerns about the adequacy of their staffing during the crisis.

Nashville officials hold first in-person press conference as 108,000 remain without power

Brent Baker, NES Vice President, stated that the utility has been scaling up its workforce and accepting help from various contractors. However, union representatives have claimed that NES declined assistance from available linemen, which could have expedited the restoration process.

Electrical workers union says NES turned them away in wake of crippling ice storm

As temperatures plummeted, community organizations and local governments have opened warming centers to provide shelter for those affected by the outages. Hundreds of residents have sought refuge in these centers, where they receive food and warmth. Local volunteers have also stepped up, providing meals and essential supplies to those in need.

Bitter cold grips the eastern US as winter storm deaths rise and power outages linger

The Nashville Office of Emergency Management has coordinated transportation to these warming centers, ensuring that vulnerable populations can access safe shelter. Emergency services have conducted welfare checks to assist individuals who may be isolated or without power.

Welfare checks ramp up as troopers call ice storm the worst in decades in Tennessee

The response to the storm has not been without controversy. Social media has been rife with rumors regarding NES's handling of the situation, including allegations of rejecting help from union workers. City officials have addressed these rumors, emphasizing the importance of verified information during such crises.

Rumors, Misinformation Add to Ice Storm Chaos

Mayor O’Connell has urged residents to remain patient as restoration efforts continue, acknowledging the frustration felt by many. He has also highlighted the need for community solidarity during this challenging time.

Nashville winter storm causes widespread disruption

As the region braces for another potential winter storm, officials are urging residents to prepare for continued cold temperatures and possible additional outages. The National Weather Service has warned of dangerously low temperatures and advised against unnecessary travel. Recovery from Winter Storm Fern is expected to be a prolonged process, with officials working diligently to restore power and support affected communities.

How Nashville is coping after winter ice storm: 'Don’t try to put yourself at risk'

• “This is a once-in-a-generation storm.” — Mayor Freddie O’Connell, Nashville

• “This is the largest single outage in NES history.” — Mayor Freddie O’Connell, Nashville

Where does this ice event rank in the history of winter storms?

• “Regardless of where a customer lives, every customer is important, and our lineworkers are working hard to restore power to every last customer,” — Brent Baker, NES Vice President

Nashville officials hold first in-person press conference as 108,000 remain without power

• “People are going to die.” — Cecilia Prado, Nashville People Power Committee

'They said they had all the resources they needed.' NES accused of refusing union help

There are conflicting reports regarding NES's staffing and response to offers of assistance from union linemen. While NES officials deny turning away help, union representatives assert that they were prepared to assist but were not utilized. This discrepancy highlights ongoing concerns about the utility's preparedness and response to the storm's impact.

'They said they had all the resources they needed.' NES accused of refusing union help