Up to 22 States Are Under Winter Storm Emergency Declarations—Why It Matters and Could Save Lives
After many meteorologists raised alarms about the massive winter storm currently impacting America, the latest predictions have called for even more severe conditions, like heavier ice accumulation. In response, officials in many regions have declared states of emergency. Here is why those declarations are so critical and can help save lives.
At Least 18-22 States Have Declared States of Emergency
On January 24, 2026, The Washington Post’s live coverage of the storm reports that "Twenty-two states have now declared a state of emergency." Meanwhile, ABC News' coverage reports that "at least 18 states [have declared a] state of emergency." Regardless of the exact count, the fact is that a huge portion of America is currently operating under one of those declarations.
Confirmed States Currently Under State of Emergency (Per Washington Post, ABC News, and USA Today):
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Delaware
- Georgia
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- West Virginia
Why States of Emergency Matter—and How They Save Lives
A U.S. Congressional Research Service report on emergency declarations explains that they “may be declared … to help state and local governments take steps … that might lessen the impact of the storm and prevent a major disaster from occurring.” That quote highlights how declarations give officials the ability to reduce harm and protect lives in times of great peril. Understanding what declaring a state of emergency accomplishes also explains what makes them effective in enhancing public safety.
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety website outlines key powers unlocked by a state of emergency declaration, including:
- Enabling government officials to take extra measures to protect the public
- Trigger anti-price gouging laws
- Seek state or federal funding aid for disaster response if needed
- Deploy resources and personnel more effectively
- Impose curfews, travel restrictions, evacuation orders as necessary to promote safety, based on the specific emergency declaration
While the specific powers vary by state, the core benefit remains the same. These declarations give officials more tools and resources to protect lives when very real dangers, like those from an extremely serious winter storm, persist.