How Severe Weather in the Southern U.S. May Impact Your Shipments

Melton Logistics – 01/23/2025

With this winter bringing historically low temperatures and snowfall in the southern United States, many shipments are predictably being affected. States like Texas, Louisiana, and Florida may not have the infrastructure in place to deal with such extreme conditions, which means they are especially vulnerable to interruptions in the supply chain. But how extreme are these wintery conditions right now, and how exactly will your shipment be affected? Keep reading to learn more.

What are the Current Weather Conditions in the Southern United States?

The current winter storm is a result of an intense cold front of arctic air sweeping across the United States. Most of the country is experiencing wind chills in the single digits or negatives, which could be potentially dangerous to anyone outdoors with exposed skin. The resulting snowstorm has been declared “once in a lifetime” in many southern regions, with regions who hardly ever see snow getting anywhere from 4”-10”. Below is a list of states that have been affected by the storm:

Many of these states don’t have the infrastructure available to deal with such heavy snowfall and icy roads, meaning it will be a slower process to get travel and shipping back to normal. Road closures, cancelled flights, and work/school closures will cause delays in many business’ shipments.

How Does Winter Weather Affect Your Shipment?

Driving in snowy and icy conditions comes with a long list of challenges that make it challenging to get your load delivered. Here are a few possible factors that can cause your shipment to take longer to arrive at its destination:

• Seasonal Weight Limits: In many states where icy weather conditions are common, there may be weight limits imposed on certain roads/bridges during winter to prevent damage to roads and/or trucks. This means drivers may have to take a longer route to make it to their destination.

• Dangerous Temperatures: When handling flatbed shipments or any load that causes a driver to be outside the truck for an extended period, dangerously low temperatures can result in load securement being more difficult. Drivers must also take more frequent breaks to warm up and prevent hypothermia and frostbite.

• Equipment Concerns: In very low temperatures, semitrucks need more maintenance and monitoring in order to keep them running smoothly. Oil and fuel viscosity increases in freezing temperatures and can cause the engine to malfunction if not properly treated, the battery will drain faster as a result of the truck being idled for longer periods, and tire pressure can drop quickly. All of these factors greatly increase the chance of a breakdown, causing further delays.

How Can You Prepare Your Supply Chain for Extreme Conditions?

If you’re left unprepared, unexpected storms like this one can cause significant damage to your supply chain, which could result in lost revenue and mistrust with your customers. Here are some ways you can best manage any delays or problems with your loads:

• Utilize Real-Time Load Tracking: Working with a carrier that offers real-time load tracking can give you increased visibility on where your load is at any time, which is information you can then pass on to customers to make sure they stay informed. If there is a delay that will cause your shipment to arrive at a later date, you’ll know ahead of time and can make arrangements to receive your shipment at a new time.

• Monitor Critical Areas: If you have business in an area that’s currently being affected by the storm, make sure you’re frequently checking weather conditions with a trusted source, like the National Weather Service. 

• Communicate with Your Carrier: Make sure you’re checking in with your carrier to stay updated on what conditions are currently like in their location and to get news of any possible delays caused by road conditions.

Winter storms can be unpredictable and difficult to navigate around, but partnering with an experienced, reliable logistics partner like Melton Logistics ensures your supply chain can resist any sudden changes. From real-time tracking to expert load planning, if you want to work with a team that can overcome any logistical challenges, visit our services page to learn more about what we offer.