Press Release from Duke Energy: Preparing for Winter Storm Fern

Preparing for Winter Storm Fern
January 22, 2026 for Winter Storm Fern

January 22, 2026

Good afternoon,

Duke Energy is preparing for Winter Storm Fern and encourages customers across North Carolina to prepare now for possible multi-day power outages. Click here to read today's press release.

More than 18,000 workers will be ready to respond as soon as conditions are safe.

Winter Storm Fern could bring snow, sleet or freezing rain as soon as Saturday, creating hazardous travel conditions and, in areas with heavy ice accumulation, the potential for extended outages.

A quarter inch of ice can bring down trees and branches onto power lines. A half inch or more can weigh down the lines themselves. Six inches of heavy, wet snow can cause similar problems. Tree and vegetation crews are trimming in advance of the storm to reduce outage risks.

We appreciate the critical role you play in public safety and preparedness as a key leader. Here are some important safety reminders we encourage you to share:

• Make a plan and prepare an emergency kit: This includes charging phones, gathering flashlights and extra batteries, and other easy, critical actions.
   
• Use the enhanced American Red Cross Emergency app: The free app, sponsored by the Duke Energy Foundation, offers emergency checklists, interactive maps of open shelters and the ability to monitor multiple locations for weather alerts.
   
• Download or update the Duke Energy smartphone app: Available via Apple Store or Google Play.
   
• Confirm Duke Energy account login info: Log in via My Account or mobile app to review and update contact info and communications preferences.
   
• Sign up for outage alerts: Receive outage information and restoration updates by text, phone, or email.
   
• Know how to report an outage: Submit outage reports online, via mobile app, by texting OUT to 57801 or calling 800.POWERON (800.769.3766).

More tips on what to do before, during and after a storm can be found at duke-energy.com/safety-and-preparedness/storm-safety.

Please reach out to me with any questions or concerns. Thank you and stay safe.

Derrick

Derrick Remer

District Manager | N.C. Government and Community Relations | Duke Energy