Severe Winter Storms Threaten Midwest & Southeast: Preparing to Keep the Situation Manageable

Winter Storm Fern is forecast to bring heavy snow, significant icing, and dangerously cold temperatures across more than 30 states beginning Friday. Businesses throughout the Midwest and Southeast should prepare for widespread disruption as the storm moves from the Southern Rockies through the Mid‑South and into the Mid‑Atlantic. Severe icing, prolonged outages, and hazardous travel conditions are likely across the region.

Winter Weather: Keeping the Situation Manageable

Businesses, especially those in healthcare, senior living, and other resident‑based operations, should now revisit their emergency response plans.
It is also a proactive time to evaluate the population for residents with special needs, those accustomed to walking community grounds or patio sitting, or those at risk of elopement.

A structured staffing plan should be considered in areas with heavy snow and ice, including routine team meetings for weather-related emergencies and broader staff inclusion.

Specific Risks for Senior Care:
• Security and comfort – of residents and staff, and safe grounds – how fast and efficiently can the walking areas be cleared?
• Supplies – reviewing menus, assessing food supplies, giving consideration to delivery delays and menus which can be prepared without power, and equipment availability, including flashlights, batteries, and blankets.
• Alternatives – for medical support equipment that does not require electricity.
• Safety – checking automatic transfer to generators in case of a power outage.
• Staffing – evaluating for transportation in and out, and adequate numbers.

Special Considerations for Senior Care
• Resident property damage: Confirm your policy includes coverage for resident belongings.
• Evacuation costs: Some situations may require emergency relocation – ensure insurance addresses these expenses.
• Staff training: Implement a documented policy requiring staff to check for leaks and report frozen pipes immediately.

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Handling Freeze‑Related Claims (Pipe Bursts)
If a frozen pipe bursts, take the following steps to protect your property and streamline your claims process:
1. Stop the damage immediately: Shut off the main water valve.
2. Document before cleanup: Photograph and video all affected areas and items.
3. Report promptly: Notify your insurer right away—many policies have strict reporting timelines.
4. Hire licensed professionals: Use licensed plumbers and certified mitigation companies to ensure proper repairs and documentation.
5. Business interruption: Document lost income and additional expenses incurred to keep residents safe and operations stable.

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The following resources have been selected with the intent to assist with weather readiness and can help in assuring your plan is not a paper compliance product but an action plan:

• Cold Weather Preparation Checklist Resource Guide (CNA)
• Emergency Checklist: Freeze‑Up (Factory Mutual Insurance Company)
• Business Emergency Response Plan (Ready Business)

Winter Storm Fern may be one of the season’s most disruptive events. By preparing early, protecting people and property, strengthening communication, anticipating supply chain delays, and understanding claims procedures, businesses can minimize risk and position themselves for a quicker recovery.