Winter storm's impact on business and markets could last 'well past the weekend': G2 Weather's Walsh

• A severe winter storm, featuring over an inch of ice accumulation and extreme cold, is expected to affect a large portion of the US population (170M+).
• The storm will shut down consumer activity for the weekend, taking a 'huge bite' out of retail and restaurant sales, with impacts potentially lasting into next week.
• Q4 earnings risk is highest for restaurants and specialty retail due to forced closures and reduced foot traffic.
• Grocers and home improvement stores (e.g., Home Depot, Lowe's, BJ's) may see a pre-storm surge but will also face closures and supply chain challenges, potentially balancing out the benefit.

A massive winter storm, described as a 'winter hurricane' with significant ice accumulation and extreme cold, is set to impact over 170 million Americans across the Southern and Northeastern US. This will lead to widespread business closures, power outages, and disruptions to consumer activity, potentially causing downside surprises in Q4 earnings for retail and restaurant sectors.