Remembering Winter Storm Uri: 5 Years Later
Five years ago, in February 2021, millions of Americans were hit hard by one of the worst winter storms in U.S. history - Winter Storm Uri.
Uri wasn’t just cold. It was catastrophic.
Here’s what happened:
- Temperatures dropped as low as -20°F in some areas.
- Over 10 million people lost power, some for days.
- Water systems failed. Grocery shelves were empty.
- At least 246 people lost their lives in Texas alone, with thousands more impacted across the country.
- Damages topped $195 billion, making Uri the costliest winter storm ever recorded in the U.S.
Many folks in Texas and other southern states had never seen snow like that before. And they weren’t ready. Pipes froze and burst. Heat shut down. Families burned furniture to stay warm…
It was a powerful reminder that extreme weather can hit anywhere, not just in the far north.
"Hey, this is Alan from Grand Prairie, Texas. As most folks know, we got hit with a big winter storm recently. I’ve got several of the 4Patriots food packs, and let me tell you—having that extra food on hand gave me real peace of mind.
It took a huge weight off my shoulders knowing we were covered if things got worse. We ended up trying a few of the meals, and they tasted great—especially for something that’s built to last 25 years. It’s just smart to have in the house. If you’re thinking about it, I say go ahead and get your supply. It’s good stuff, and it’s even better knowing you’re ready."
Winter 2026: What’s Ahead?
As we face the 5-year anniversary of Uri, forecasts show that this winter could bring more of the same. We’ve already seen shocking snowfall accumulation in several states - including Hawaii.
Here’s what weather experts are predicting:
✅ Southern U.S.
Expect Arctic cold snaps and a higher chance of snow and ice - especially in January and February. Rolling blackouts are a real risk again.
✅ Midwest & Central U.S.
Above-normal snowfall and frigid temps expected. Areas like Missouri, Kansas, and Illinois could see multiple snowstorms and wind chills well below zero.
✅ East Coast & Mid-Atlantic
Increased risk of coastal snowstorms (Nor’easters) from Washington, D.C. to Boston. High winds and power outages are possible in February.
The Big Takeaway?
Storms like Uri - and the ones we may see this winter - are no longer “once-in-a-lifetime.”
They’re happening more often. And they can happen anywhere.
That’s why we always say: Hope for the best. Prepare for the worst.
Having backup power, extra food, safe drinking water, and ways to stay warm can make all the difference when disaster hits.
Scroll Down for 10 Ways You Can Improve Your Winter Readiness
Need a jumpstart?
We recommend starting simple with our 4-Week Emergency Food Kit.
This best-selling kit is designed to give you 2,000+ calories a day of hearty, shelf-stable meals. It’s packed with breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks—all made with family-favorite recipes and no added MSG. And it’s all packaged to last up to 25 years.
Here’s why it matters:
- In a crisis, a single 4-Week Kit can feed one adult for a full month
- Or it can feed a family of 4 for one full week—when you need it most
- Just add water, heat, and you’ve got a warm meal
- No fridge, no fancy prep, and no stress
When disaster hits, this kit can make all the difference.
Winter Preparedness Checklist
1. Stock up on firewood before the rush. Prices rise fast once the cold sets in - get what you need now while it’s dry and plentiful.
2. Test your solar generator. Make sure your backup power is charged and functioning before the first blackout hits.
3. Can and preserve your harvest. Turn extra fruits and vegetables into shelf-stable meals your family can enjoy all winter.
4. Rotate emergency food supplies. Keep your pantry fresh and waste-free by using oldest items first and replacing as needed.
5. Clean out your gutters. Prevent costly water damage by clearing out leaves and debris before heavy fall rains.
6. Inspect camping gear. Check tents, zippers, and sleeping bags to avoid surprises during late-season trips.
7. Sharpen knives and tools. Properly sharpened gear is safer, more efficient, and ready for any task that comes your way.
8. Plant fall garlic Garlic planted in fall yields strong, flavorful bulbs in the spring. Plus, it’s incredibly low-maintenance.
9. Seal windows and doors Weatherproofing your home can cut heating bills and keep rooms warmer as temperatures drop.
10. Switch to thermal base layers Insulated clothing reduces your reliance on external heat sources and keeps you comfortable outdoors.
Top Emergency Essentials
References & Resources:
- National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration (NOAA): What's the Difference Between a Hurricane Watch and a Warning?
- NOAA: Prediction remains on track for above-normal Atlantic hurricane season
- NOAA: Find your Evacuation Zone
- National Hurricane Center (NHC): Tropical Cyclone Climatology
- NHC: Storm Surge Products
- NHC: How to Use the Cone Graphic
- Ready.gov: Evacuation
- Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA): The National Risk Index
- FEMA: Know Your Alerts
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Emergency Disinfection of Drinking Water
- Center for Disease Control (CDC): Keep Food Safe After a Disaster or Emergency