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More than 15,000 US flights have now been disrupted by America’s massive winter storm

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More than 15,000 US flights have now been disrupted by America’s massive winter storm

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The massive winter storm set to hit states across the country has caused more than 15,000 flight disruptions as Americans brace for snow, ice and low temperatures.

As of 5:40 a.m. on Saturday, the website FlightAware.com, which provides real-time data on flight disruptions, noted that nearly 10,000 flights had been canceled through Monday with another 5,000 being delayed.

American Airlines has seen the brunt of the disruptions on Saturday, with 822 flight cancellations and 30 delays, according to FlightAware. Southwest Airlines was shown to be the second most impacted airline with 571 cancellations and 33 delays, followed by Delta Airlines with 165 cancellations and 33 delays. United Airlines is the least impacted of the four, but still has 150 cancellations and 45 delays.

FEMA PREPARATIONS FOR ‘MASSIVE WINTER STORM’ SET TO IMPACT MORE THAN 30 STATES REVEALED IN MEMO

A flight information board at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) ahead of an anticipated winter storm in Dallas, Texas, on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026.  (Mark Felix/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Saturday reported airport closures across the country, including Harry Reid International Airport, John Wayne Airport and San Diego International Airport. Meanwhile, weather and air traffic professionals are hard at work monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of air travelers across the country.

In a video released by the agency on social media, Air Traffic Watch Officer Joshua Jennings explained the efforts taken to ensure safety, including snow removal and the de-icing of aircraft. Additionally, the FAA is urging Americans to check its website for updates on airport information.

Customers at an American Airlines counter

FlightAware listed American Airlines as the most impacted by the winter weather with more than 800 cancellations. (Mark Felix/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

CRUZ BACK IN TEXAS AFTER PHOTO OF HIM BOARDING PLANE SPARKS BACKLASH AHEAD OF WINTER STORM

This weekend’s historic winter storm spans over 2,300 miles with weather alerts as far west as New Mexico sweeping across the country to Maine. More than 190 million Americans are under some type of winter weather alert, breaking the record for the most number of U.S. counties simultaneously under a Winter Storm Warning, FOX Weather reported.

On Friday, the National Weather Service (NSW) urged Americans in the storm’s path to take it seriously, advising that individuals should “avoid travel if at all possible.”

People walk as snow falls in Brooklyn

Snow in Prospect Park in Brooklyn on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026. New York City is gearing up for its first major winter storm of 2026.   (Theodore Parisienne/New York Daily News/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

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President Donald Trump shared the NWS message on Truth Social and said the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was ready to respond.

“I have been briefed on the record cold wave and historic winter storm that will be hitting much of the United States this weekend. The Trump Administration is coordinating with state and local officials. FEMA is fully prepared to respond,” Trump wrote, adding, “Stay safe and stay warm!”

Rachel Wolf is a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital and FOX Business.

Virginia Democrats blasted for threatening historic military college VMI with funding threat over DEI concerns

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Virginia Democrats blasted for threatening historic military college VMI with funding threat over DEI concerns

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Virginia Democrats in the state’s House of Delegates introduced a resolution on Tuesday that would establish a task force to investigate the Virginia Military Institute and determine if the historic military college should continue to receive funding. 

The move is the latest of Virginia Democrats’ efforts to reinvigorate Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy in the state after much of the DEI mandates and policies were revoked after President Donald Trump was elected in 2024.

“This takes away from VMI, takes away from its mission,” Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Va., told Fox News Digital. “I think that it’s harmful to the Commonwealth of Virginia, harmful to VMI as an institution, harmful to all the incredible military leaders and community leaders that have come out of VMI.”

“It’s just reprehensible that they would even go down this road,” Wittman added. “But, it seems to be what’s happening in Richmond.”

SPANBERGER SIGNALS LEFT BENT AFTER CENTRIST CAMPAIGN; GOP LEADER WARNS OF ‘FAIRFAXING THE REST OF VA’

Republican lawmakers are blaming Democratic Gov. Abigail Spanberger and renewed DEI efforts for what they describe as an ideological push that could jeopardize the nation’s oldest state-supported military college. (Win McNamee/Getty Images; Greg Nelson /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)

Wittman, who serves on the House Armed Services Committee, represents the Northern Neck, Middle Peninsula and parts of the Peninsula of Virginia. He attended Virginia Tech University and was a member of the Corps of Cadets, which he says had a friendly rivalry with VMI. 

VMI was founded in 1839, making it the oldest public senior military college in the country. VMI has had several notable graduates, including sitting Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, and Gen. John “Dan” Caine, Trump’s Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. 

U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz participates in a United Nations Security Council vote on a Gaza resolution.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz attended VMI. (Adam Gray/Getty)

Wittman was not the only member of Congress who voiced concerns about the potential Democratic-driven demise of the nation’s first state-funded military college.

TOM HOMAN VOWS TO WORK AROUND NEW DEM VA GOV SPANBERGER’S EXECUTIVE ORDER ENDING ICE COOPERATION

Rep. Pat Fallon, R-Texas, also serves on the House Armed Services Committee and pointed to newly elected Democratic Gov. Abigail Spanberger as the culprit of the threat to VMI.

“Less than a month in office as governor of Virginia, Abigail Spanberger has shown a commitment to turning the commonwealth into California,” Fallon told Fox News Digital. “The left’s renewed focus on VMI is not intended to benefit our military.

“Instead, it’s yet another avenue to tear down an institution that has developed exceptional leaders and statesmen who have made significant contributions to our nation, such as George C. Marshall, Mike Waltz, and the current Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Dan Caine, whom I had the privilege of serving with in the Air Force,” Fallon added.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger gestures as she delivers inauguration speech

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger speaks during inaugural ceremonies at the Capitol in Richmond, Va., on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026.  (Steve Helber/AP)

VIRGINIA DEMS INTRODUCE CLASSROOM DEI CURRICULUM LAW ON DAY 1 OF LEGISLATIVE SESSION

In 2021, then-Democratic Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam ordered a state-sanctioned investigation into VMI’s DEI structure. An investigation which specifically looked for racism and sexism. The audit came in President Joe Biden’s first full year in the White House, when DEI policies were running rampant at universities and corporations across the country. 

One of Spanberger’s first acts since being elected was appointing Northam to VMI’s Board of Visitors.

“To appoint disgraced former Governor Ralph Northam, a man of poor moral character, to the Board of Visitors at VMI is an insult to our nation’s oldest state-supported military school and the leaders it produces,” Fallon told Fox News Digital. “He has no business overseeing VMI, and leftists like Spanberger can’t help themselves from advancing their radical, far-left agenda.”

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam ordered an investigation into VMI in 2021.

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam ordered an investigation into VMI in 2021.

SPANBERGER TAKES SWIPE AT TRUMP ADMIN, SAYS VIRGINIANS WORRIED ABOUT ‘RECKLESSNESS COMING OUT OF WASHINGTON’

Spanberger has received sharp criticism for many of the liberal policies she has implemented in her short time in office, including an executive saying local and state law enforcement are no longer required to cooperate with ICE, a reversal from a previous order issued by former Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

“Screw any and all of you who lied to low-information voters and sold Abigail Spanberger as some kind of moderate,” Meghan McCain, the daughter of the late Sen. John McCain, posted to social media. “She’s been in office like 6 hours and is already trying to turn Virginia into Minneapolis.”

former president George W. Bush speaking at Virginia Military Institute.

George W. Bush speaking to cadets at the Virginia Military Institution in 2002.  (PAUL J. RICHARDS/AFP via Getty Images)

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Should the legislation introduced in the Virginia House of Delegates make it to Spanberger’s desk, it is possible that the military institution will not survive if state funding is revoked. 

“There is no logic, there is no logical reason why you would do this,” Wittman told Fox. “If you have issues with VMI, many of those have played out in years past, the institution has done everything that the General Assembly has asked for them to do.”

Fox News Digital reached out to Spanberger, but did not receive a response in time for publication. 

Preston Mizell is a writer with Fox News. Story tips can be sent to Preston.Mizell@fox.com and on X @MizellPreston

Preston Mizell is a writer with Fox News Digital covering breaking news.

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The Manchester community shop selling groceries at huge discounts

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The Manchester community shop selling groceries at huge discounts

Kelly Foranand

Jonny Humphries,North West

Kelly Foran/BBC Andy Hawthorne, who has a bald head and light grey stubble, beams at the camera inside a shop stocked with groceries. Kelly Foran/BBC

Andy Hawthorne said the idea, formed to help ease food insecurity, had “gone a bit nuts”

A charity boss who founded a community shop selling groceries at a fraction of the price of supermarkets said the concept was so successful “it had gone a bit nuts”.

Andy Hawthorne is chief executive of The Message Trust, a Christian charity which also aims to provide access to affordable groceries to combat food insecurity.

The trust runs a community members-only store in Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester, which sells food donated by supermarkets, or that would otherwise go to landfill, at heavily discounted rate.

Hawthorne told the BBC: “People often walk in this place in despair, we see it in their eyes and their demeanour and they sniff hope.”

He said the idea was formed during the coronavirus pandemic when the trust was delivering food to vulnerable people.

“We saw desperate need,” Hawthorne said.

Kelly Foran/BBC Beatrice Zulu, who has black and grey curly hair and is wearing a black hoody with the slogan Never Give Up in white lettering, smiles at the camera inside a shop stocked with groceries.Kelly Foran/BBC

Beatrice Zulu said the shop had been “amazing” at helping her keeping her bills down

“So we came up with this dream: let’s start a shop, let’s stop food going into landfill, let’s get lots of donations and let’s buy some choice items.

“We’ll make sure it’s well stocked and let’s try and provide food for families at a fraction of the cost for a supermarket.

“And it’s gone a bit nuts to be honest.”

The result was the trust’s flagship shop in Sharston.

Shopper Beatrice Zulu told the BBC it had been “absolutely amazing” at helping keep her bills down.

“Especially with the days like now after Christmas, where you’re probably thinking everything’s gone but if you come in here and it’s a fiver you can get your veg, you get your fruit, you can get your meat, you can get your bread, It’s really, really good and really, really useful,” she said.

Kelly Foran/BBC Kathleen Roper, who has short blonde hair and wears a light grey jumper, smiles at the camera against a backdrop of a shelf contained large bags of crisps. Kelly Foran/BBC

Kathleen Roper said she “could not afford to live” if she shopped in supermarkets

Hawthorne said since then demand has rocketed and the charity now runs 34 similar shops across the country, with around 100,000 members.

A food shop costs around 25% less than in regular supermarkets, and the charity also provides “wraparound support” with courses on debt or managing mental health.

The food on the shelves is a combination of “perfectly good” stock which is closer to its sell by date, food donated to the charity and stock the charity has bought out of its own funds.

Sharston shop member Kathleen Roper added: “What you’d spend say £20 in the shops, you can get here for £5.

“So it’s a massive, massive difference and it’s always full. The fresh veg especially in the shops is so dear and you can’t afford to live.

“I really can’t afford to live if I shop outside.”

Snow, heavy rain kill 61 in three days in Afghanistan

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Snow, heavy rain kill 61 in three days in Afghanistan

Afghan men walk along a snow-covered path in the Dara district of Panjshir province on January 23, 2026. — AFP
  • Most of casualties caused by roof collapses, avalanches: official.
  • Deaths occur mainly in central and northern provinces: ANDMA.
  • Rescue teams unable to reach Salang pass because of blockage.

Snow and heavy rain have killed 61 people in Afghanistan in the past three days, disaster officials said on Saturday, with a major road and power also cut in several provinces.

The deaths occurred mainly in central and northern provinces between Wednesday and Friday, according to a map released by Afghanistan’s disaster management authority (ANDMA).

The “initial figures of casualties and destruction” also include 110 injured people and 458 houses that were either partially or fully destroyed, ANDMA said on social media platform X.

A total of 360 families were affected, said a spokesman who asked people in a video message to avoid unnecessary travel on snowy roads.

The spokesman also told AFP that most of the casualties were caused by roof collapses and avalanches, while many also died from frostbite in sub-zero temperatures.

The emergency department in the southern province of Kandahar said six children were killed when the roof of their home collapsed in strong wind and heavy rain on Wednesday.

Houses were also damaged in other districts.

Major highway cut 

The Salang highway, one of Afghanistan’s main roads, has been closed, authorities in Parwan province north of Kabul said. The highway is a vital connection to Afghanistan’s northern provinces.

Food supplies were also distributed to travellers stuck on a mountain pass in central Bamyan province, west of the capital.

A transmission line importing electricity from Uzbekistan was also damaged on Thursday, leaving households in almost 12 provinces without power.

“The technical teams are ready but cannot reach the area because of the blockage of Salang pass,” said Mohammad Sadiq, the spokesman for Afghanistan’s national power utility Dabs.

The heavy snow and rain also destroyed shops and killed livestock in different parts of the predominantly rural country.

“Snow and rain, when managed properly, contribute positively to Afghanistan’s environment and livelihoods,” the Kabul Times daily wrote in an editorial.

“However, without sufficient preparation and timely intervention, these natural phenomena can quickly turn into sources of tragedy,” it said.

Around half of Afghanistan’s population of more than 40 million people will need humanitarian assistance this year, according to the United Nations, after a sharp drop in foreign assistance in recent years.

Natural disasters such as earthquakes and drought also often compound the daily struggle to survive.

Bank holiday alert: Banks to stay shut for 4 straight days — Here’s why

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Bank holiday alert: Banks to stay shut for 4 straight days — Here’s why

New Delhi: Planning to visit your bank soon? You may want to check the holiday schedule first. Banks across the country are set to remain closed for the next four days, This means regular branch services will not be available during this period. January 24 falls on the fourth Saturday of the month and as per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, banks remain shut on the second and fourth Saturdays. Since it is the fourth Saturday, bank branches will stay closed.

Banks To Remain Closed For Four Consecutive Days

If you have any bank-related work lined up, you may want to plan accordingly. Banks will remain shut for four days in a row from January 24 to January 27 due to a combination of scheduled holidays and a proposed strike. While branches will be closed, customers can continue using digital services such as net banking, mobile apps, UPI and ATMs to withdraw or transfer money. Bill payments and other online transactions will also remain available.

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Following the fourth Saturday holiday on January 24, banks will remain closed on January 25 due to Sunday. January 26 is a national holiday on account of Republic Day, and bank unions have announced a strike on January 27. If the strike goes ahead, banking services at branches will not be available that day either.

Bank Unions Plan Nationwide Strike on January 27

Bank services could be affected on January 27 as employee unions prepare for a nationwide strike. The United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) has called for the protest, demanding that banks adopt a five-day work week. The union argues that a five-day schedule would help reduce workload and improve efficiency for employees. It has been pointed out that most government offices and several financial institutions already follow a Monday-to-Friday work routine.

As part of its proposal, the UFBU has suggested keeping banks closed on Saturdays by adding 40 extra minutes to working hours from Monday to Friday. Notably, institutions such as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), LIC, stock markets, forex, and money markets already remain closed every Saturday.

What Has SBI Said?

The State Bank of India (SBI) has alerted its customers that some banking services may be disrupted if the proposed strike goes ahead. In an advisory, the bank said it will try to keep essential services running to minimise inconvenience. For cash needs, SBI has advised customers to use ATMs or Automated Deposit and Withdrawal Machines (ADWMs). For other basic services, customers can visit nearby Customer Service Points (CSPs).

The bank has also encouraged customers to rely on digital options such as net banking, the YONO app, mobile banking and UPI to carry out transactions during this period.

Winter storms can knock out your tech fast: Prepare now

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Winter storms can knock out your tech fast: Prepare now

States prepare for massive winter storm

FOX Weather meteorologist Bayne Froney joins ‘America’s Newsroom’ in Dallas, Texas as the first signs of a massive winter storm begin to show. Texas is preparing accordingly following the devastating winter storm five years ago.

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Weather forecasters are warning that a major winter storm is expected to impact large portions of the United States starting Friday. Forecasts call for snow, freezing rain and ice stretching from Texas and the Southern Plains through the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic and into the Northeast. This system is concerning because it combines ice accumulation, gusty winds and plunging temperatures. In many regions, especially across the South and parts of the Mid-Atlantic, infrastructure is not designed to handle prolonged ice events.

That increases the risk of extended power outages and disrupted cell service. When the grid goes down, everyday tech becomes critical. Phones, alerts, vehicles and apps may be your only connection to updates and emergency help. Preparing now matters far more than reacting later.

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RUSSIAN WINTER STRIKE LEAVES NEARLY 800K HOMES WITHOUT POWER AND HEAT IN UKRAINE’S DNIPRO REGION

Ice storms can take down power lines fast, leaving homes without electricity and cell service for hours or even days.  (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Why ice storms are especially disruptive

Ice storms cause more damage than most people expect. Unlike snow, ice sticks to everything and adds significant weight. Ice builds up on trees and power lines, causing branches to snap and lines to fall. Utility crews often cannot begin repairs until conditions improve, which delays restoration. Forecasters at Fox Weather warn that freezing rain across the South and interior Southeast could be particularly damaging, while snow and wind farther north may slow emergency response. 

Even if cell towers remain standing, networks often overload during severe weather. When thousands of people try to call at once, connections fail. Texts and alerts usually have a better chance of getting through. That is why you should assume you may be offline longer than expected.

Immediate tech actions to take before the storm hits

These steps are simple, but timing matters. Do them before the weather conditions worsen.

Charge devices and prepare backup power

  • Charge all phones, laptops, tablets and battery packs
  • Fully charge wearable devices like smartwatches
  • Turn on Low Power Mode on phones now
  • Lower screen brightness to extend battery life, and check out these other tips to keep your phone battery charged longer
  • Make sure you have a reliable portable charger on hand, like those highlighted in our 5 best portable chargers for emergencies on Cyberguy.com.
  • For outages that could last days in this winter storm, a good generator can keep your home powered the longest and safest.
  • Reliable lighting matters during storms and blackouts. Invest in a high-output flashlight and hats with built-in lights that can be especially useful when visibility is poor.
  • Keep a battery-powered weather radio on hand so you can receive emergency updates even if power and cell service go out.

A fully charged phone, smart power settings and a reliable portable charger can keep you connected early in an outage while longer-term home power solutions carry you through the days ahead.

Woman in winter storm in Manhattan

A woman walks with an umbrella in the rain in the Manhattan borough of New York, Feb. 5, 2014.  (REUTERS/Carlo Allegri)

Plan for offline communication and limited cell service

  • Download offline maps for your area
  • Save emergency contacts locally on your device
  • Write down key phone numbers on paper
  • Plan to text instead of calling if networks are congested. Text messages use less bandwidth and often go through when calls fail.
  • Cold weather can also make phones harder to use. Touchscreen-compatible winter gloves let you stay connected without exposing your hands to the cold.

Set up a family check-in plan before the storm

  • Agree on specific check-in times
  • Choose one out-of-area contact everyone can message
  • Avoid constant calling, which can overload networks

Clear expectations reduce panic and unnecessary phone use.

Make sure emergency alerts are enabled

Emergency alerts can reach your phone even when apps and social media cannot. They are designed to cut through network congestion and deliver critical warnings.

How to turn on emergency alerts on iPhone

  • Open Settings
  • Tap Notifications
  • Scroll to Government Alerts
  • Turn on Emergency Alerts
  • Enable Always Play Sound
  • Turn on Imminent Threat Alerts under Enhanced Safety Alerts

US POWER CRUNCH LOOMS AS OKLO CEO SAYS GRID CAN’T KEEP UP WITHOUT NEW INVESTMENT

Ice storms add heavy weight to trees and power lines, causing widespread damage and outages that can overwhelm repair crews and communication networks for longer than expected.

Ice storms add heavy weight to trees and power lines, causing widespread damage and outages that can overwhelm repair crews and communication networks for longer than expected. (AP/Craig Ruttle)

How to turn on emergency alerts on Android

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer

  • Open Settings
  • Tap Safety and emergency or Notifications
  • Select Wireless emergency alerts
  • Turn on Severe threats and Extreme threats
  • Enable Allow alerts and Alert sound

On some phones, you may also see options for Public safety messages or Emergency alerts, which should be turned on. These alerts may include evacuation notices, shelter updates and severe weather warnings.

Both iPhone and Android let you preview alert sounds and settings in these menus, so take a moment to test them now and make sure alerts are loud enough before severe weather hits.

Know how to use Emergency SOS on your phone

If you need help during a winter storm, Emergency SOS can contact emergency services even when you cannot unlock your phone or make a normal call. Set this up now. Do not wait until you are stressed, cold or without power.

How to set up and use Emergency SOS on iPhone

  • Open Settings
  • Tap Emergency SOS
  • Turn on Call with Hold and Release or Call with 5 Button Presses
  • Scroll down and add emergency contacts

To activate Emergency SOS during an emergency, press and hold the side button and a volume button, or quickly press the side button five times, depending on your settings.

How to set up and use Emergency SOS on Android

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer

  • Open Settings
  • Tap Safety and emergency or Privacy and safety
  • Select Emergency SOS
  • Turn on Use Emergency SOS 
  • Choose how SOS is triggered, such as Require to swipe to call
  • Add emergency contacts and medical information by clicking Emergency sharing settings 

On many Android phones, pressing the power button five times will trigger Emergency SOS. Emergency SOS can call for help, share your location and alert emergency contacts when conditions are dangerous.

If cell towers go down during this storm, features like Emergency SOS can still help you reach emergency services. Our guide explains in more detail how these lifesaving settings work.

Apps you should have installed ahead of time

The right apps can deliver critical updates when power is out, cell networks are strained and social media is unreliable. Install and set these up before the storm arrives.

Weather and severe alert apps

  • Fox Weather app: A trusted option for real-time forecasts, winter storm alerts, radar tracking and location-based notifications. Make sure local alerts are turned on.
  • MyRadar Weather Radar: A highly rated radar app that shows storm movement in real time and sends push alerts when severe weather is approaching your area.
  • Storm Shield Severe Weather App: Delivers National Weather Service alerts based on your exact location, similar to NOAA weather radio warnings, with clear push notifications for winter storms and ice events.
  • NOAA Weather Radio apps (iPhone and Android): These apps stream official NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts, providing continuous updates, watches and warnings directly from the National Weather Service. Weather radio streams often remain available even during major outages.

Using more than one weather app can give you redundancy if one service is delayed or overloaded.

Utility and outage tracking apps

  • Your local power utility app: Most utilities offer apps that allow you to report outages, view outage maps and track restoration progress in real time.
  • FEMA App: Provides official weather alerts, disaster resources, shelter locations and safety guidance during severe weather events.

These apps can confirm outages, provide restoration updates and reduce unnecessary calls to utilities when systems are overwhelmed.

Do not overlook vehicle tech and preparedness

Your vehicle may become a critical resource during extended outages.

Prep your car before conditions worsen

  • Fill your gas tank early. A full tank allows you to run the engine briefly for heat or charging if needed.
  • Keep a phone charger in the car.
  • Store a fully charged portable power bank in the glove box or center console. This gives you emergency phone power if your car battery dies or you cannot run the engine.
  • Download weather and road condition alerts.
  • Also, consider buying a Snow brush and ice scraper, jumper cables, a set of 6 LED Road Flares Emergency Lights and a First Aid Trauma Pack with QuikCloth, so you are not caught off guard in an emergency.
  • There are also portable tech solutions designed to help you stay warm and powered during outages or roadside delays, including heated gear worth purchasing in advance.

Storms also bring scams and fraud attempts

Severe weather creates ideal conditions for scams. Power outages, delayed responses and anxiety make people more likely to trust messages that appear urgent or official.

Fake utility and restoration scams

Scammers often impersonate electric, gas or water utilities.

  • Texts or calls claiming your power will be restored faster if you pay
  • Messages warning service will be shut off unless you act immediately
  • Spoofed phone numbers that look like your local utility

What to know: Utilities do not charge fees to restore power and do not demand payment by text, gift cards or apps.

Emergency aid and disaster relief scams

These scams spike right after storms hit.

  • Messages promising emergency funds, fuel vouchers or hotel assistance
  • Fake charity links claiming to help storm victims
  • Social media posts asking for donations using stolen images

What to know: Legitimate aid is announced through official government or well-known nonprofit channels, not unsolicited messages.

Fake delivery, fuel and repair service scams

Storms disrupt normal services, which scammers exploit.

  • Links claiming fuel delivery is available in your area
  • Messages about delayed packages that require confirmation
  • Ads for emergency home repairs that ask for upfront payment

What to know: Do not click links or pay deposits without verifying the company independently.

Charging your devices and lining up backup power now can make the difference between staying informed during an outage and being cut off once the storm hits.

Charging your devices and lining up backup power now can make the difference between staying informed during an outage and being cut off once the storm hits. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Account takeover and identity theft attempts

Storm chaos makes it easier for attackers to slip through unnoticed.

  • Password reset emails pretending to be from banks or retailers
  • Login alerts asking you to “secure” your account immediately
  • Calls claiming suspicious activity that push you to share codes

What to know: Never share one-time codes or login details, even if the message looks legitimate.

How to protect yourself before and during the storm

Taking a few precautions now can help you avoid costly mistakes when outages, delays, and scam messages start piling up.

1) Slow down and verify every urgent message

Scammers rely on panic. If a message pressures you to act fast, stop and verify it through a trusted source.

2) Avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages and use strong antivirus software 

Go directly to official websites or apps instead of tapping links in texts or emails. Keep your operating system up to date and use strong antivirus software to block malicious links and fake websites.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.

Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

3) Lock down accounts before outages hit

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on email, banking, and utility accounts so stolen passwords cannot be used alone.

4) Reduce your exposure with a data removal service

Many storm scams work because criminals already have your phone number, address or email. Using a data removal service to opt out of data broker sites can reduce how easily scammers target you during emergencies.

While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.

Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

5) Never pay to restore power or receive aid

Utilities and government agencies do not charge fees to restore service or release emergency assistance.

When power and internet access are limited, it is harder to verify messages quickly. That makes preparation just as important as awareness. A little skepticism now can prevent financial loss and identity theft when help is hardest to reach.

Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?

Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: Cyberguy.com.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Winter storms can turn small tech decisions into critical ones. Ice, power outages and overloaded cell networks can leave people cut off faster than expected, especially in regions not built for prolonged winter weather. Preparing your devices, alerts, vehicles and accounts ahead of time gives you more control when conditions worsen. It also reduces panic and limits your exposure to scams that thrive during emergencies. A little planning now can make a big difference when help is harder to reach.

Have you taken steps to prepare your tech for this winter storm, or did this checklist highlight something you still need to do? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Natalie Portman says her Oscar-nominated film helped her children think about the future, the planet, and possibility – The Times of India

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Natalie Portman says her Oscar-nominated film helped her children think about the future, the planet, and possibility - The Times of India

In her Oscar-nominated work, Arco, Natalie Portman ignited meaningful discussions with her kids surrounding the pressing issue of climate change and the future they might inherit. This animated tale follows a young boy as he navigates a world marred by environmental crises, inspiring her children to think critically about solutions.

Some films entertain children. Some quietly stay with them. Natalie Portman’s latest animated film Arco seems to do both. Fresh from an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature, the film has also made a strong impact inside Portman’s home, the producer told People. Watching it with her two children turned into more than a movie night. It became a doorway to curious questions, deep thoughts, and hopeful ideas about the future.

A film that worked on two levels

Arco follows a young boy who travels back in time after a trip goes wrong and lands in the year 2075. The future he sees is shaped by environmental challenges. While the story is animated and gentle, it does not talk down to children. Portman was drawn to the project because it respects young viewers and trusts them to understand complex ideas in simple ways.

What Natalie Portman noticed at home

Watching the film with her son Aleph, 14, and daughter Amalia, 8, was an eye-opening moment. The children did not just watch quietly. They asked questions. Why are the parents holograms and not at home? Why is the Earth struggling? Could people really live on platforms above the planet? These questions led to some very thoughtful family discussions that continued long after the screen went dark.

Big topics, child-friendly language

The film touches on climate change, technology, and responsibility without creating fear. Instead, it opens space for imagination. Portman has shared that the film allowed conversations about real-world problems and possible solutions. It showed children that challenges exist, but ideas and creativity also exist. That balance made the film powerful for young minds.

Why children felt seen by the story

Portman believes children today are already aware of global issues. Shielding them completely may not help. Arco speaks to them honestly and with respect. It does not gloss over reality, yet it offers hope. The message is simple. Every invention once began as an idea. Imagining a better future is the first step toward building one.

Familiar emotions through animation

Portman has spoken about how animated films shaped her own childhood. Movies like The Lion King helped her understand emotions, loss, and empathy. In Arco, even a robot nanny shows feelings. The robot’s voice was created by blending Portman’s and Mark Ruffalo’s voices by hand. The slight imperfections made it feel more human and warm, something children instantly connect with.

When art invites shared moments

With an English cast that includes Will Ferrell, America Ferrera, Flea, and Andy Samberg, Arco brings together humour, heart, and meaning. For Portman, its success is not only measured by awards or box office numbers. Its real achievement lies in the conversations it sparks between parents and children. The film proves that family movies can be thoughtful, hopeful, and deeply engaging at the same time.Disclaimer: This article is based solely on publicly shared statements and verified information related to the film Arco and Natalie Portman’s comments. It does not add, assume, or alter any facts beyond the provided details.

Prince Harry’s next UK travel dates revealed for huge summer event

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Prince Harry's next UK travel dates revealed for huge summer event

Prince Harry, 44, has never missed his annual event set to take place in Birmingham this year

Prince Harry just wrapped up a high-stakes UK trip this week, but he’s already looking ahead to his next visit.

The Duke of Sussex is expected to be back in Britain on July 10 for the one-year countdown event ahead of the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham. A source close to the Sussexes told the Daily Express that trips have already been pencilled in for July and August, though much depends on security arrangements.

“There have been talks when Harry was here previously, he said he wants to come home but he has to make sure it is a safe place for his wife and his family,” the insider said, adding, “Meghan has issues about security and serious concerns about some really nasty trolls.”

The One Year to Go Ceremony for the 2027 Birmingham Invictus Games is scheduled for early July, and while no official confirmation has been issued, a source said “it is likely he will attend” given that Harry, 44, has never missed a countdown event since the launch of the Invictus Games in 2014.

Behind the scenes, a risk management board is currently reassessing Harry’s security status in the UK. A recommendation is expected within weeks, with some reports suggesting a decision in favour of the Sussexes is already “nailed on.” 

Kim Kardashian shares cute names kids gave their Christmas puppies

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Kim Kardashian shares cute names kids gave their Christmas puppies

Kim Kardashian shares cute names kids gave their Christmas puppies

Kim Kardashian’s four Pomeranian puppies have now been officially given names chosen by her children cementing their place as part of the family.

The reality star and SKIMS founder revealed that her four children, North, 12, Saint, 10, Chicago, 8, and Psalm, 6, each received a Pomeranian puppy for Christmas and gave them names that are as creative as they are charming.

On her Instagram Story, Kim shared that the pups are now officially called Uzi, Teddy, Cookie, and Cinnamon Roll.

“I bet you guys can guess which dog is which child’s by their names,” she teased.

Kim first introduced the furry friends on December 25 posting sweet videos of the puppies playing with toys.

In a January 4 clip, Chicago and Psalm were seen cuddling and racing around with their dogs.

“Since we’re faster than the doggies, we have to race like this, Mommy,” Psalm adorably told Kim in the video.

While picking out puppy names came naturally to her kids, Kim has admitted that naming her children was far more challenging.

In a 2020 fan Q&A, she recalled how North’s name took several days to decide.

Initially suggested as a joke by Jay Leno, the name grew on Kim after Pharrell Williams explained its deeper meanings.

“They really become the name that you name them,” she reflected.

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