Governors Declare States of Emergency as Winter Storm Approaches
Governors around the country have declared emergency proclamations in anticipation of upcoming winter storms that are expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and power disruptions.
The governors of Florida, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, and Kansas have issued emergency proclamations, warning residents of the dangerous meteorological conditions facing their states.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) declared a state of emergency for 49 counties that are at risk of or have already been harmed by the hurricane expected to hit the state. Wind gusts and tornadoes above 70 mph are the most serious concerns, but flooding and hail may also pose a risk to Florida citizens, according to DeSantis’ directive.
The governor’s emergency declaration authorizes the National Guard and urges Florida to request aid from the White House.
The storm slammed the northwest area of Florida as the state legislature was about to begin its 60-day session. The storm flipped mobile homes, toppled brick buildings, and destroyed trees.
Republican State Sen. Jay Trumbull of Panama City shared photographs of the wreckage on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“Devastating images are flooding in from around our district following this morning’s storms. “Please remember these communities in your prayers,” Trumbull wrote Tuesday.
Governors Initiate Emergency Responses Across States
Maryland Governor Wes Moore (D) issued the state’s first State of Preparedness declaration on Tuesday, directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate how the state government will respond to the oncoming meteorological conditions.
The National Weather Service predicts that Marylanders will encounter wind, flood, snow, and ice dangers.
“I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of State government ahead of potential impacts related to the incoming weather system,” Moore said in a statement. “The safety and security of our residents is our top priority.”
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper (D) issued an executive order on Monday declaring a state of emergency, citing high winds of up to 75 mph that threaten to damage power lines and trees in the area.
“This storm system has the potential to bring high winds and other dangerous storm conditions to North Carolina, and people should be aware and take precautions,” Cooper said in a statement.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy (D) has announced a state of emergency, which will take effect at 5:00 p.m. ET. The order enables the distribution of resources throughout all 21 counties in the state.
“Beginning tomorrow morning and continuing through Wednesday morning, we are expecting one to four inches of heavy rain, strong winds, and potential inland and coastal flooding,” Murphy stated in a press release. “As always, I urge all New Jerseyans – including residents in our coastal and riverine communities – to follow all safety protocols and remain off the roads unless absolutely necessary.”
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly (D) issued a state of emergency Monday as snow and gusts gusting to 40 mph struck the Sunflower State.
“I encourage all Kansans to be cautious as the winter storm moves through our state,” Kelly said in a statement. “Stay off the roads if possible and be mindful of emergency response personnel working hard to keep our citizens safe.”
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