Hey Y'all

I hope you are doing well today. Weather models and forecasters now show a significant winter storm called Winter Storm Fern moving across a large part of the United States this weekend.

This system is expected to bring ice, snow, and freezing rain to millions of people from the Deep South up into the Northeast and Midwest. The forecast includes damaging ice accumulations, heavy snow, and very cold temperatures that could lead to travel problems and power issues for many communities.

Current forecasts show this storm may begin in Texas and Oklahoma on Friday, with ice and snow spreading across northern Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and into the Mid-Atlantic states through Saturday and Sunday. Areas that rarely see winter weather are now being told to prepare for freezing rain and sleet followed by snow, with dangerous road conditions and possible power outages.

In parts of the Midwest and Northeast, the storm could bring even heavier snow through Sunday into early next week. Travel could become difficult to impossible in some places and utility stress is a real concern as ice and wind affect power lines.

I want to make sure we also talk about the claim opportunities and risks that come with a storm like this. If this system unfolds the way forecasts suggest, we are likely to see

Burst pipe claims from prolonged freezing temperatures inside homes and commercial buildings where water lines freeze and break.
Roof damage and ice dam issues from the combination of snow and ice sitting on structures.
Auto and transportation claims due to collisions on icy roads.
Secondary loss claims related to power outages like food spoilage and HVAC failures.
Tree and structure damage as ice accumulates on branches and lines.

Looking back to the Texas freeze in 2021, we saw an enormous number of burst pipe claims and significant infrastructure stress because of extended subfreezing temperatures and loss of power in areas not used to that kind of cold. While it is too early to tell if Fern will match that event in severity, the patterns we are seeing in forecast guidance share similar risk factors for cold and ice in places that are not well prepared.

Here are a few action items you should think about right now:

Reach out to independent adjusting firms and let them know you are available for winter weather assignments.
Update your resume and adjuster profiles so they are ready to submit at a moment’s notice.
Make sure all certifications and licenses are current including Xactimate, ICC, plus any required continuing education.
Monitor local weather forecasts daily as the storm track and intensity could change as we get closer.

This is a storm that could have broad effects on claim volume and the types of assignments you will see in the coming days. Preparing now increases your chances to be in position for meaningful work when the event unfolds.

P.S. if you need any help this year getting hired as an IA, just respond to this email

I'd be happy to talk to you

Stephen

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