Winter storm prompts emergency declarations in at least 22 U.S. States

Sunday 25 January 2026 - 14:00

By: Sahili Aya

Winter storm prompts emergency declarations in at least 22 U.S. States

At least 22 U.S. states have declared a state of emergency as a powerful winter storm sweeps across large parts of the country, bringing heavy snowfall, ice accumulation and hazardous travel conditions.

The storm has already impacted several southern and central states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Arkansas, where thick layers of ice and snow have disrupted daily life. Weather authorities warn that the system could affect more than 200 million people as it continues moving north and northeast.

Emergency measures have been announced from the southern United States to the Northeast and the Midwest, covering states such as Missouri, the Carolinas, Virginia, New York and the District of Columbia. The declarations are aimed at accelerating emergency response efforts and mobilizing resources ahead of the storm’s peak.

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that federal emergency declarations had been approved for several states, allowing access to federal assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Authorities say close coordination is underway to ensure public safety.

The storm has also caused widespread disruption to air travel, with thousands of domestic and international flights canceled over the weekend. Power outages have been reported across multiple states, particularly in Texas and Louisiana.

Meteorologists forecast significant snowfall in major cities along the East Coast, with accumulations expected to reach several dozen centimeters in some areas, raising concerns about transportation, electricity supply and public safety.