Texas, February 5, 2026
Winter Storm Fern has tragically claimed at least 11 lives in Texas, including several children. The storm has also caused extensive power outages and severe agricultural damage across the state. Rescue efforts have begun for affected communities as authorities assess the widespread disruption and rising financial impacts projected to reach billions.
Elgin, Texas, January 28, 2026
Winter Storm Fern has resulted in at least 11 fatalities in Texas, nearly half of whom were children. The storm, which swept across the state last week, has also caused widespread power outages and significant agricultural damage.
Fatalities and Incidents
Among the victims were three young brothers who drowned after falling through ice on a private pond near Bonham, approximately 60 miles northeast of Dallas. The boys, aged 6, 8, and 9, were not publicly named by the Fannin County Sheriff’s Office. In the Dallas suburb of Frisco, two teenagers died following a sledding accident linked to the storm. Investigators reported that the teens were riding on a sled being pulled by a vehicle when it struck a curb and a tree on Sunday. Additionally, several unhoused individuals died of exposure in Austin, Houston, and Fort Worth. Nationally, the storm has been linked to at least 50 deaths.
Power Outages
Despite concerns over the state’s power grid, which was overwhelmed during Winter Storm Uri nearly five years ago, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas reported that the grid held during this event. However, localized outages were experienced, particularly in East Texas, where more than 91,000 customers were without power at one point. These outages were largely due to ice accumulation and downed lines.
Agricultural Impact and Relief Efforts
The storm caused extensive agricultural damage, including barn collapses, fencing failures, and feed losses. In response, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced the activation of relief efforts to assist producers, ranchers, and agribusinesses affected by the storm. Miller also urged Texans and organizations statewide to support recovery efforts through donations to the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund.
Insured Losses
Financially, the storm is projected to be one of the costliest winter events in recent history. Karen Clark and Company estimated that privately insured losses from Winter Storm Fern could reach up to $6.7 billion. This estimate includes damage to residential, commercial, and industrial properties from snow, ice, wind, and freezing temperatures.
Background
Winter Storm Fern developed from an Arctic air mass that pushed south, bringing sharply lower temperatures across the Great Plains and Midwest. A low-pressure system formed along the boundary between the cold air and warm, moisture-heavy flow from the Gulf, leading to the widespread winter precipitation. The storm affected more than 30 U.S. states, causing significant disruptions and damage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How many people have died in Texas due to Winter Storm Fern?
- At least 11 people have died in Texas, nearly half of whom were children. Nationally, the storm has been linked to at least 50 deaths.
- What caused the power outages during the storm?
- Localized outages were experienced, particularly in East Texas, where more than 91,000 customers were without power at one point. These outages were largely due to ice accumulation and downed lines.
- What relief efforts are being implemented for those affected by the storm?
- Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced the activation of relief efforts to assist producers, ranchers, and agribusinesses affected by the storm. Miller also urged Texans and organizations statewide to support recovery efforts through donations to the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund.
- What is the estimated financial impact of Winter Storm Fern?
- Karen Clark and Company estimated that privately insured losses from Winter Storm Fern could reach up to $6.7 billion. This estimate includes damage to residential, commercial, and industrial properties from snow, ice, wind, and freezing temperatures.
- How did Winter Storm Fern develop?
- Winter Storm Fern developed from an Arctic air mass that pushed south, bringing sharply lower temperatures across the Great Plains and Midwest. A low-pressure system formed along the boundary between the cold air and warm, moisture-heavy flow from the Gulf, leading to the widespread winter precipitation. The storm affected more than 30 U.S. states, causing significant disruptions and damage.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fatalities | At least 11 people have died in Texas, nearly half of whom were children. Nationally, the storm has been linked to at least 50 deaths. |
| Power Outages | Localized outages were experienced, particularly in East Texas, where more than 91,000 customers were without power at one point. These outages were largely due to ice accumulation and downed lines. |
| Agricultural Impact | The storm caused extensive agricultural damage, including barn collapses, fencing failures, and feed losses. |
| Relief Efforts | Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced the activation of relief efforts to assist producers, ranchers, and agribusinesses affected by the storm. Miller also urged Texans and organizations statewide to support recovery efforts through donations to the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund. |
| Insured Losses | Karen Clark and Company estimated that privately insured losses from Winter Storm Fern could reach up to $6.7 billion. This estimate includes damage to residential, commercial, and industrial properties from snow, ice, wind, and freezing temperatures. |
| Storm Development | Winter Storm Fern developed from an Arctic air mass that pushed south, bringing sharply lower temperatures across the Great Plains and Midwest. A low-pressure system formed along the boundary between the cold air and warm, moisture-heavy flow from the Gulf, leading to the widespread winter precipitation. The storm affected more than 30 U.S. states, causing significant disruptions and damage. |
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