Several governors on Wednesday ordered their respective states to begin preparing for a major winter storm that is projected to impact over 180 million Americans in the South, Midwest and Northeast this weekend. 

The Weather Channel has dubbed the storm "Winter Storm Fern," and winter storm watches have been issued from New Mexico into the Southeast. The storm is expected to impact some states beginning Friday and ending Monday.

West Virginia Republican Gov. Patrick Morrisey declared a State of Preparedness for all 55 counties, which allows the state's Emergency Management Division to prepare staff and resources to respond in the event of an emergency.

Morrisey also urged residents to remain vigilant in preparation for the storm and to limit all unnecessary travel.

South Carolina GOP Gov. Henry McMaster declared a "State of Emergency" in his state in preparation of the storm, which is expected to impact South Carolina beginning Saturday. 

The order authorizes state agencies to mobilize resources, allows the state National Guard to activate personnel and prepare equipment for deployment, and allows state and local emergency management officials to begin coordinating response efforts.

“South Carolinians should remain aware of local forecasts and take appropriate precautions ahead of this weekend's storm, as winter weather can change quickly and create hazardous conditions with little notice,” McMaster said. “Preparations are already underway by state agencies, and this State of Emergency ensures Team South Carolina is ready to respond and support communities as conditions develop." 

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein also declared a "State of Emergency" in his state and is expected to hold a press briefing on his administration's preparations for the storm on Thursday. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.