Winter Storm Fern Could Top $100B in Economic Losses

Preliminary estimates of storm damage and economic losses from Winter Storm Fern, which impacted 34 states and 220 million people, range between $105 billion and $115 billion, according to AccuWeather. It is projected to be the costliest weather disaster in the U.S. since the California wildfires in January 2025 ($250+ billion in total damage and economic loss).

The massive storm stretched for more than 2,000 miles across the U.S., dumping between one to two feet of snow across much of New England. The storm resulted in tens of thousands of cancelled flights, school and business closures and stalled supply chains. More than 800,000 people were without power from Texas to the Carolinas.

“The scope of this winter storm was extraordinary. What sets this storm apart is not just the snow and ice, but how widespread the disruption has been across transportation, energy, commerce and daily life,” said AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter. “The extreme cold pouring in behind the storm dramatically increases risks and slows recovery in many of the hardest-hit areas.” 

The prolonged blast of Arctic air and frigid temperatures will increase the likelihood of secondary damage, including frozen pipes, structural issues and additional business interruptions.