Home / Weather / Winter Storm Sparks Panic Buying Across US
Winter Storm Sparks Panic Buying Across US
25 Jan
Summary
- 112,000 homes lost power as storm warnings impacted 140 million Americans.
- Empty grocery shelves observed in DC, New York, and North Carolina.
- Experts distinguish between preparedness and "fight or flight" panic buying.
A major winter storm has swept across large parts of the United States, prompting widespread panic buying and leaving many grocery store shelves empty. As of January 25, 2026, the storm had already caused power outages for 112,000 homes, with warnings issued for approximately 140 million Americans.
Images of stripped shelves have surfaced on social media, documenting the rush for supplies in areas affected by freezing rain and snow. Stores in Washington D.C., New York City, and North Carolina reported shortages of essential items like water, non-perishable food, and batteries.
Experts distinguish between necessary emergency preparedness and excessive panic buying. Behavioral finance professor Hersh Shefrin explains that while stocking up for a few days is reasonable, buying driven by "fight or flight" responses transforms into panic. He notes that seeing low stock levels can trigger impulse purchases.
