Winter Storm Fern in January 2026 left more than 1.1 million customers without power at its peak across 10 states, according to a poweroutage.us analysis. Preparing before a storm is far easier than during one.
Power outage emergency kit checklist
Ready.gov's basic kit includes water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, a whistle, a manual can opener, a phone charger with a backup battery and important documents. The generator tool turns that list into a printable checklist sized to your household.
Water to store per person for a power outage
Ready.gov advises one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Four people for three days is 12 gallons.
How many days of supplies for a power outage
FEMA recommends having supplies for at least three days. Longer outages happen, so more is better if you have room. The tool lets you plan up to 14 days.
Winter storm preparedness checklist: pets, infants and medical needs
Ready.gov lists several days of pet food and water, plus infant formula, bottles, diapers and wipes, but gives no set amounts, so we do not invent any. If someone relies on powered medical equipment, talk to their provider about a plan, and ask about refrigerated medicines.
Power outage food safety refrigerator rules
A closed refrigerator keeps food cold for about four hours and a full freezer for about 48 hours, per Ready.gov. Discard perishable food that has been at 40 degrees F or warmer for two hours or more. If you use a generator, run it outdoors at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages.
Sources: Ready.gov (Build a kit; Power outages; Pets); FEMA; poweroutage.us, "Winter Storm Fern: Power Outage Impacts" analysis.
