Millions of Americans are dealing with disruptions from Winter Storm Fern, a major weather system bringing snow, sleet, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures from Texas through the Midwest and up the East Coast.

In response, several grocery retailers have closed stores entirely or cut back hours today (Monday, Jan. 26), while others remain open but still face challenges.

Major Store Closures and Early Shut-Downs

Giant Eagle & Market District (Mid-Atlantic / Ohio region)

All corporate Giant Eagle and Market District locations closed early Sunday and remain affected Monday plans.

List of Grocery Stores Closing Today or Changing Hours Due to Winter Storm Fern
Giant Eagles closing at 4 p.m. Sunday

Giant Eagle announced all corporate locations closed by 4 p.m. Sunday due to heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions. Most are expected to reopen Monday during normal hours if weather permits, but confirmation from your local store is essential.
→ Giant Eagle operates ~219 stores across Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, Indiana, and West Virginia.

Weis Markets and Regional Independents (Pennsylvania)

Several regional chains in Pennsylvania stayed closed all day Sunday because of unsafe conditions. These included Weis Markets, Redner’s Warehouse Markets, Yoder’s Country Market, and Stauffers of Kissel Hill Fresh Foods.

Most planned to reopen Monday morning (often 8 a.m.) if roads and staffing conditions improved.

Harris Teeter (Carolinas)

List of Grocery Stores Closing Today or Changing Hours Due to Winter Storm Fern
Harris Teeter locations to close early Sunday amid winter weather

Many Harris Teeter stores in the Carolinas closed early over the weekend, with planned reopening times focused on Monday morning at 8 a.m., weather permitting. Drivers and shoppers should check phone lines or online store locators because conditions can still force additional closures.

Adjusted Hours (Open but Changing Schedules)

H-E-B (Texas)

Several H-E-B, Central Market, Joe V’s Smart Shop, and Houston Mi Tienda grocery stores stayed open Sunday with adjusted hours, opening early (about 8 a.m.) and returning to normal hours Monday. In other Texas regions, stores shifted start and closing times based on local road conditions.

Kroger (Texas & Beyond)

In the Greater Houston area, Kroger locations closed early at 8 p.m. Sunday with plans to resume normal Monday hours, typically 6 a.m.–11 p.m. across many stores. Kroger historically tries to keep stores open during storms but will adjust case-by-case for safety.

Walmart

Walmart reports that it “will continue to operate stores as long as it is safe to do so,” but hours may vary by location during the storm. Calling in advance or checking the Walmart store locator is recommended.

Why These Closures Matter Today

Winter Storm Fern is a widespread system affecting over 200 million people, with severe snow, sleet, and freezing rain stretching from the South into the Northeast. The National Weather Service has placed large swaths of the country under advisories or warnings, and road conditions remain dangerous in many areas.

Store closures and early shutdowns may continue Tuesday in the hardest-hit areas. Most grocery chains will try to reopen as soon as roads are safe and staff can reach the stores.

How to Check Your Local Store Status

Because closures are often local and rapidly changing, here’s how to confirm:

  1. Use the official store locator on the grocery’s website or app before leaving home.

  2. Call the store phone line — automated closures often update sooner than websites.

  3. Follow social media — many stores post real-time changes on Facebook or Twitter.

Smart Shopping Tips During the Storm

Even if your store is open today, here are practical tips to stay safe:

Prioritize Essentials and Safety

  • Focus on bread, milk, eggs, bottled water, and quick meals — these tend to run out first as shelves empty due to demand and delivery delays.

  • Avoid driving during peak storm conditions — roads can freeze quickly, and travel bans / advisories may apply.

  • If you absolutely must go out, shop early in the day before weather or staff shortages force closures.

Have a Backup Plan

  • If grocery deliveries are expected, check whether delivery drivers can reach your area — services can be suspended without notice.

  • Consider shelf-stable alternatives and plan for several days at home if roads remain unsafe.

Final Thought

Today’s grocery store closures are a direct result of Winter Storm Fern’s large scale and danger to staff and customers. While some stores are closed or reduced hours, others remain open with adjusted schedules. Before heading out, check local hours and be ready to adapt your plans based on real-time weather and store updates.