[Skip to content](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/t-mobiles-readiness-in-motion-as-widespread-winter-storm-fern-approaches#maincontent) [Newsroom](https://www.t-mobile.com/news)Toggle secondary navigation - [Network](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/network) - [Devices](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/devices) - [Un-carrier](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/un-carrier) - [Community](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/community) - [Offers](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/offers) - [Business](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/business) English [NetworkCategory](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/network)[Press Release](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/press) # T‑Mobile’s Readiness in Motion as Widespread Winter Storm Fern Approaches (Updated: Feb. 2) January 22, 2026 [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/WinterStormGenerators.jpeg) Portable T‑Mobile generators ready to be deployed for Winter Storm Fern, January 2026 11 min readListen IconListen Listen to this article 0:00 - Facebook IconShare on Facebook - Share on Twitter - LinkedIn IconShare on LinkedIn # __Update: February 2, 2026__ ### __Community Support__ T‑Mobile teams are helping communities stay connected in Nashville by providing free Wi-Fi and device charging at the Nashville Fairgrounds. Community members are welcome to stop by anytime. The location is expected to be open 24 hours a day through Wednesday 2/4, though hours and duration may change based on conditions. - __The Fairgrounds Nashville__. Address: 625 Smith Ave Nashville, TN 37203 [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/T-MobileCommunitySupport_Fern2026.jpg) T‑Mobile Community Support Truck, January 2026 \### # __Update: January 28, 2026__ T‑Mobile CEO Srini Gopalan shared an update on Winter Storm Fern, emphasizing the importance of year-round preparation, network resilience and the work of teams on the ground and behind the scenes to keep customers and first responders connected through dangerous weather conditions. Read more from Srini [here](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/srini-gopalan_this-past-week-was-a-reminder-of-why-we-do-activity-7422343801853235200-3lDn?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAE5S5EBfmEG0i0WcPUf7aVVCkruYb1qtcc). \### # __Update: January 27, 2026__ ### __Network Update__ As communities recover from Winter Storm Fern, the vast majority of T‑Mobile customers remain connected, even in some of the hardest-hit areas. Teams continue restoring a small number of sites impacted by commercial power outages, with remaining impacts focused in the Nashville and Memphis areas, where some areas are still inaccessible due to unsafe conditions including ice and downed trees. Emergency technicians and field teams are actively continuing reconnaissance and restoring impacted sites using backup power solutions, including fixed and portable generators, while overlapping coverage helps maintain service. Deployable network assets such as SatCOLTs (Satellite Cell on Light Trucks) and SatCOWs (Satellite Cell on Wheels) are supporting recovery efforts where needed. ### __Community and Public Safety Support__ T‑Mobile continues to work closely with federal, state and local emergency management agencies and public safety partners to coordinate efforts and respond to requests for support. In parallel, community support teams are providing Wi-Fi and charging assistance, including at American Red Cross shelters and warming centers and remain ready to deploy additional resources as conditions evolve. - [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/Generators_4_012526.jpg) - [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/T-MobileCommunitySupport_Fern2026.jpg) T‑Mobile Community Support Truck, Winter Storm Fern, January 2026 - [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/TechnicianInFieldWinterStormFern2026.jpg) T‑Mobile technician, winter Storm Fern, 2026 - [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/Fern_trees_3.jpg) - [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/Generators_1_012526.jpg) - [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/IMG_3035-rotated.jpeg) Winter storm Fern 2026 - [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/Fern_trees_2.jpg) - [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/Fern_trees_1.jpg) Winter storm Fern 2026 - [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/Generators_3_012526.jpg) \### # __Update: January 26, 2026__ Read directly from T‑Mobile’s President of Technology and Chief Technology Officer, John Saw, on how the network has performed during Winter Storm Fern, including the role of backup power, automation, satellite connectivity and the dedicated teams behind the response. See his update shared today on LinkedIn, [here](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/john-saw-86101b5_teammagenta-activity-7421689831677689856-4IEw?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAADO_OsBE6gIrI-_fpEKoNKWYRXMAimXTVA). [](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/john-saw-86101b5_teammagenta-activity-7421689831677689856-4IEw?utm_source=share&%3Butm_medium=member_desktop&%3Brcm=ACoAAADO_OsBE6gIrI-_fpEKoNKWYRXMAimXTVA)[Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/image-2.png) \### # __Update: January 25, 2026__ As Winter Storm Fern continues across the central and eastern United States, bringing ice, snow and prolonged cold, many communities are facing power outages, hazardous travel and daily challenges.   ### __Network Update__ Even as severe weather continues and commercial power outages affect some areas, our network remains strong, thanks to the [preparation and built-in resilience](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/how-t-mobile-smart-network-stays-strong-in-disasters). Overlapping coverage, backup power and other readiness measures are doing what they’re designed to do during storms like this. Network technology, including our Self-Organizing Network ([SON](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/disaster-definitions)), is using AI, data and automation to adapt in real time by rerouting signals and shifting antenna angles to manage traffic, while also making changes that extend available battery and generator life.   We have crews and technicians on the ground deploying portable generators and refueling or recharging on-site backup power where needed and safe road conditions allow. Additional equipment remains staged for deployment, as outlined below.   As conditions continue to evolve, solutions like [T-Satellite](https://www.t-mobile.com/coverage/satellite-phone-service) can also help people stay connected in areas where traditional networks are down.  ### __Customer and Retail Update__ To help keep employees and customers safe, many T‑Mobile retail locations in affected areas are temporarily closed or operating with adjusted hours due to ice, power outages and unsafe travel. Customers are encouraged to check the [store locator](https://www.t-mobile.com/stores/locator) for the latest information on individual locations.  We will continue to monitor conditions and respond as the storm progresses. Our focus remains on helping people stay safe, connected and informed as we continue coordinating with public safety and emergency management partners to assess needs. Our thoughts are with everyone navigating the challenges of this storm.  \### # __Update: January 24, 2026__ ### __Network Monitoring, Performance and Response__ As Winter Storm Fern moves across large portions of the central and eastern United States, T‑Mobile’s emergency teams are actively monitoring conditions using [AI-powered tools](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/disaster-definitions), including Dataminr and Everbridge, to track evolving risks in real time and support communities as conditions change.  At this time, T‑Mobile’s network is performing well, with built-in resilience supporting service across affected areas. On-site power solutions, including back-up batteries and generators, are in place and available if needed and automated technology, including our Self-Organizing Network ([SON](https://tmobile-newsroom.wistia.com/medias/mo96mmphvr)), is making real-time adjustments to help maintain connectivity as weather evolves. T-Satellite with Starlink is available as an additional layer of connectivity if traditional networks are disrupted.  In addition to network readiness, T‑Mobile is actively responding to requests from state and local partners, including deploying Wi-Fi and charging vehicles to provide additional connectivity support for communities. Teams continue to assess needs and coordinate additional assistance where it’s safe to do so.  ### __Being Ready Together__ Alongside our preparations, we want to share a few simple steps customers can take to prepare as the storm continues:  #### __Stay Connected__ - Save important contacts, including family, neighbors and local emergency numbers. - If calls are difficult, try texting. If service is disrupted, T‑Mobile customers with compatible phones can use T-Satellite to help stay connected to loved ones. - If you have access to Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Calling can also help you make calls or send texts when cellular service is limited. - Keep emergency alerts enabled on your device and pay attention to Wireless Emergency Alerts for updates from local authorities. #### __Stay Powered__ - Charge phones and essential devices - Keep portable chargers or backup batteries on hand if possible. - Conserve battery power by lowering screen brightness and closing unused apps. #### __Stay Safe__ - Limit travel during severe winter weather when possible. - Dress in layers and protect against extreme cold. - Check on neighbors, friends and family members who may need extra help. T‑Mobile will continue to monitor conditions and share updates as needed. Our focus remains on helping people stay connected, informed and supported, and we encourage everyone in affected areas to follow guidance from local officials, take steps to stay safe and check in on family, friends and neighbors.  \### # __Update: January 23, 2026__ As Winter Storm Fern approaches, our teams are focused on preparedness and supporting communities that are facing severe winter weather.  Forecast confidence continues to predict a widespread system affecting more than 200 million people across the central and eastern United States. Primary risks include significant icing from Texas through the Southeast and Carolinas, along with heavy snowfall expanding across parts of the Midwest, including areas such as Indianapolis and St. Louis. Prolonged cold into early next week may extend impacts and restoration in some areas.   ### __Network and Technology Readiness__ T‑Mobile’s network readiness remains high. Our teams have completed critical preparations, including positioning back up power solutions and finalizing refueling plans. Thousands of fixed and portable generators are already in place across the storm’s projected path, and we’ve deployed more than 1,000 additional portable generators to support response efforts.   Our team has also staged mobile cell sites such as [SatCOLTs](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/disaster-definitions) (Satellite Cell on Light Trucks) and SatCOWs (Satellite Cell on Wheels), satellite-based connectivity solutions (including Very Small Aperture Terminals or VSATs and other equipment) and backup power resources, all positioned to support technicians as they restore impacted sites once conditions safely allow.  T‑Mobile has activated [T-Satellite with Starlink](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/t-satellite-data-ready-app-expansion) for all T‑Mobile customers in potentially impacted areas with compatible phones, supporting basic text messaging if traditional connectivity is disrupted so people can stay in touch with loved ones during the storm. Wireless Emergency Alerts will broadcast via satellite to compatible devices in the impacted area, regardless of provider, and those who have signed up, including customers of other providers, can [text 911](https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/) via satellite.   ### __Community Support__ Community support teams and resources remain staged near expected impact zones, with support vehicles and tens of thousands of essential supplies ready to deploy broadly to provide connectivity, charging and other assistance. ### __Public Safety and First Responders__ Over the past 24 hours, T‑Mobile has expanded coordination with emergency management partners along the storm’s path, including State Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs), critical county-level EOCs and federal partners such as FEMA and CISA, to support information sharing and response efforts as conditions evolve.  Agencies or organizations needing assistance can contact T‑Mobile’s emergency team through our 24/7, 365 days a year hotline at 888-639-0020. Solutions such as T-Priority and T-Satellite are available to support communications planning before, during and after severe weather events.  [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/image.png) \### # __January 22, 2026__ T‑Mobile teams are closely monitoring a major winter storm expected to develop late this week and move east across large portions of the central, southern and eastern United States. Forecasts show the potential for heavy snow, ice accumulation and dangerously cold temperatures, with the highest ice risk in parts of Texas and the Southeast and heavier snow more likely farther north. We’re taking proactive steps to be ready as conditions evolve.  ### __Focused on Network Readiness__ We’re preparing ahead of the storm with added focus on network strength and backup power. Generators are fueled, [equipment and assets](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/disaster-definitions) are staged across potentially impacted regions, and our teams are prepared to respond quickly and deploy if conditions change. T‑Mobile’s network includes automated and AI-powered technology, including our [Self-Organizing Network](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/disaster-definitions) (SON) that adjusts in real time to help maintain connectivity for the maximum number of people as conditions require.    T-Satellite with Starlink provides an additional layer of backup in the unlikely event that traditional towers can’t be reached, enabling text messaging and access to satellite-ready apps for customers on eligible plans. Plus, anyone who signs up can [text 911](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/t-mobile-text-to-911-available-for-everyone) through satellite on a compatible device, regardless of their provider. ### __Coordinating with Public Safety Partners__ We’re partnering with state and local agencies along the projected storm path, as well as with federal partners including FEMA and CISA, to provide support to customers and first responders as needed.   ### __Ready to Support Communities__ Our community support teams and assets are ready to deploy, capable of providing Wi-Fi connectivity, charging and other assistance to impacted areas. We’re also checking in with employees in those regions throughout the duration of the storm, to make sure our people are safe.  We encourage everyone in affected areas to stay informed, follow guidance from local officials and stay safe. We’ll continue to monitor conditions and share updates as the situation evolves. Please visit [T‑Mobile Emergency Response](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/emergency-response) and follow the T‑Mobile Newsroom on [X](https://x.com/tmobilenews) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/tmobilenews/) for the latest updates.   [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/AccuWeatherForecast_1-21-2026.png) AccuWeather Forecast for Winter Storm Fern, January 21, 2026 [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/StormMonitoring.jpg) T‑Mobile command center [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/PoliceCar.jpg) Upstate New York, January 21, 2026 [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/25PC10024801_CNET_Bell_TG-54.jpg) T‑Mobile SatCOLT [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/NiagaraFalls.jpg) Niagara Falls, NY, January 21, 2026 [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/25PC10024801_CNET_Bell_TG-27.jpg) T‑Mobile Drone [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/25PC10024801_CNET_Bell_TG-33.jpg) T‑Mobile Community Support Truck [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/PoliceStation2.jpg) [Arrow Right Icon](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/_admin/uploads/2026/01/WinterStormGenerators.jpeg) Portable T‑Mobile generators ready to be deployed for Winter Storm Fern, January 2026 T‑Mobile prepared to support communities, customers and first responders, Winter Storm Fern, January 2026 ###  Tags[Community](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/archive/community)[Emergency Response](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/archive/emergency-response)[Network](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/archive/network)[T-Satellite](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/archive/t-satellite) ## Related Stories [More Stories](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/category/network) [ \ NetworkPress Release \ __T‑Mobile Supports Spokane as Devastating Fires Impact Region (Updated 8/5)__ \ August 02, 2026|7 min read](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/t-mobile-supports-spokane) [ \ NetworkPress Release \ __How T‑Mobile Built a Network Ready for One of the Largest Live Events in U.S. History__ \ July 24, 2026|6 min read](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/t-mobile-built-a-network-ready-for-largest-live-events-in-u-s-history) [ \ NetworkPress Release \ __T‑Mobile Mobilizes Resources as Tropical Storm Bertha Moves Across the Gulf Coast__ \ July 21, 2026|2 min read](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/t-mobile-mobilizes-resources-as-tropical-storm-bertha-moves-across-the-gulf-coast) [ \ NetworkPress Release \ __T‑Mobile Responds to Central Texas Flooding__ \ July 16, 2026|3 min read](https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/t-mobile-responds-to-central-texas-flooding)