How the South’s grid could fail this winter — and what to do about it

This winter's jet stream is pointing toward a wetter south. But with temperatures swinging back and forth, that moisture won't just fall as frost. It can turn to freezing rain and ice. And the grid is already stretched thin. The south depends on electric heat more than any other region. Mild winters made heat pumps the top pick. Now, that's a weak spot. Once it gets cold enough, heat pumps switch to back up electric heat. That takes a lot more power for the same warmth. Multiply that across the region and demand shoots up. Ice piles onto the power lines carrying it. Seal up drafts. Get your heat running now. Report branches near power lines and keep blankets and flashlights ready.