Emergency Declarations for Winter Storm
US President Donald Trump has authorized emergency declarations for ten states severely affected by a winter storm. On January 25, 2026, Trump announced the measures designed to facilitate federal assistance and ensure public safety as extreme cold and heavy snow impacted many regions.
The affected states include Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Maryland, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Indiana, and West Virginia. Through a post on his social media platform, Trump urged residents to prioritize safety and stay warm during this challenging weather event.
Scope of the Storm
This winter storm is notably widespread, as at least 20 states have declared a state of emergency. These states range from Alabama to Nebraska, indicating the storm’s extensive reach. Reports suggest that more than 140 million people are under winter storm warnings, which is over 40% of the US population.
The National Weather Service has warned of hazardous conditions, including significant snowfall and ice accumulation across a swath of the country, stretching from New Mexico to New England. Meteorologists have described this storm as unique due to the prolonged cold temperatures anticipated following its passage.
Impact on Communities
Power Outages and Emergency Response
In Louisiana, treacherous conditions caused by freezing rain have left nearly 50,000 customers without power, complicating the emergency response efforts. The state’s governor has declared a state of emergency to expedite resource mobilization. Emergency management teams are collaborating with FEMA and state agencies to address the situation as quickly as possible.
Meanwhile, snow and ice buildup has posed risks to public health and safety, prompting governors in several states to advise residents to remain indoors. In Oklahoma, parts of the region reported up to a quarter inch of ice, hindering travel and recovery efforts. Allison Santorelli, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, stated, “The snow and the ice will be very, very slow to melt and won’t be going away anytime soon, hindering recovery efforts.” This emphasizes the prolonged nature of the storm’s impact.
Disruption in Air Travel
The severe winter weather has significantly disrupted air travel in the United States, leading to the cancellation of over 12,000 flights over the weekend. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, known as one of the busiest air traffic hubs, faced significant operational challenges with over 700 cancellations. Major airports in Chicago, Atlanta, Nashville, and Charlotte also reported flight disruptions.
Travelers have been urged to check flight statuses and consider rescheduling plans due to the ongoing weather challenges. The FAA and airport authorities are working to manage cancellations and delay issues efficiently.
Government Response
FEMA Coordination and Support
Following the emergency declarations, federal agencies are mobilizing resources to assist state governments in their response efforts. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is closely working with state governors and emergency management teams to align efforts and facilitate timely assistance.
Emergency declarations allow state governments to bypass certain federal spending restrictions, enabling them to mobilize resources more swiftly. This legal framework is critical during natural disasters, allowing for quicker public safety measures and recovery efforts.
Future Forecasts and Preparations
The storm is expected to shift towards the Northeast, with forecasts predicting snowfall amounts between one to two feet from Washington, D.C., through New York and into Boston. Local governments are bracing for potentially hazardous travel conditions and are advising increased safety measures.
In preparation for continued severe weather, schools and local services are coordinating to ensure safety for residents, particularly vulnerable populations. Authorities are closely monitoring conditions and are prepared to implement additional measures as necessary.
Conclusion and Ongoing Updates
The unprecedented winter storm has brought significant challenges across various regions, impacting millions of lives and necessitating a robust government response. As the situation evolves, officials will continue to provide updates regarding safety measures and resources available to affected communities.
Residents are advised to remain informed about weather forecasts and safety announcements from state and local authorities. The situation underscores the importance of preparedness in facing adverse weather conditions, reflecting the resilience of communities across the nation during such times.
In summary, as severe winter weather continues to sweep across the country, authorities are responding with emergency measures aimed at safeguarding public welfare and restoring services as efficiently as possible.