Duke Energy has mobilized more than 18,000 workers from 27 states and Canada in preparation for Winter Storm Fern, which is forecast to impact the Carolinas this weekend. The company is warning customers to prepare for possible power outages that could last several days in areas most affected by the storm.
Rick Canavan, Duke Energy storm director, said: “Forecast models continue to shift, and both precipitation type and amounts may change as the storm approaches.” He added: “We’re making our final preparations to ensure our 18,000 crew members have everything they need to assess damage, clear trees and restore power as soon as conditions are safe.”
Canavan noted the particular risk posed by freezing rain: “Freezing rain is going to be our enemy over the days ahead. It will build up on tree branches until the weight causes them to break – bringing down power lines and poles. The freezing rain and ice will also make roads extremely difficult for our crews to navigate, slowing power restoration efforts.” He urged customers: “Winter storms like this can create serious challenges. I urge customers to ready themselves and their families for outages that could extend into next week – and check in on neighbors to make sure they’re prepared, too.”
Meteorologists tracking Fern expect snow, sleet or freezing rain could begin as early as Saturday. Ice accumulation is expected to be a significant threat; even a quarter inch of ice can bring down tree limbs onto power lines, while half an inch or more can cause lines themselves to fall.
Duke Energy serves approximately 4.7 million electric customers in North Carolina and South Carolina combined. Ahead of the storm’s arrival, crews are completing targeted tree trimming work intended to reduce outage risks.
The company has positioned its restoration workforce across the Carolinas by Friday night. This group includes Duke Energy employees along with contracted lineworkers, vegetation specialists, and support staff from across the United States and Canada.
To prepare for the storm response, Duke Energy has established 22 basecamps throughout the region where out-of-state crews can access supplies and equipment before being deployed.
Customers are advised to review emergency plans and ensure essential supplies such as charged phones and flashlights are available. The American Red Cross Emergency app—sponsored by the Duke Energy Foundation—provides checklists, shelter maps, and weather alerts. Customers are also encouraged to download or update the Duke Energy app via Apple Store or Google Play for account management and outage reporting.
For safety during outages or hazardous conditions, residents should avoid downed power lines and use generators according to manufacturer instructions. While grid improvements such as stronger poles and self-healing technology may help limit some outages or speed restoration times, extended outages remain possible due to dangerous road conditions caused by ice accumulation.
Restoration efforts will begin when it is safe for crews to travel. Damage assessment teams will prioritize critical facilities first but warn that blocked roads or hidden damage may delay full restoration in some locations.
More information about current outages can be found at duke-energy.com/OutageMap. Additional tips on storm preparedness are available at duke-energy.com/StormTips.
Duke Energy operates electric utilities serving millions of customers across six states including North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. Its natural gas services reach over a million customers in five states. The company continues investing in grid upgrades and cleaner energy sources as part of its long-term transition strategy.
Further updates can be found on X (@DukeEnergy), Facebook (facebook.com/DukeEnergy), or through media contacts listed on their website.
