ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Gov. Wes Moore declared a statewide state of emergency Friday in advance of a significant winter storm expected to impact Maryland beginning Saturday afternoon, January 24, and continuing through Monday, January 26, according to an executive order issued from the State House.
The declaration was issued after state emergency officials warned that the storm could bring heavy snowfall, ice accumulation, hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and sustained below-freezing temperatures lasting into the following week. State officials said the order is intended to allow agencies to prepare resources and respond quickly to protect public safety and property.
The Maryland Department of Emergency Management advised the governor that the storm poses a substantial risk statewide, prompting the declaration under Title 14 of the Public Safety Article of the Maryland Code, which authorizes emergency action during impending disasters.
“Because of the potential impacts of this severe weather and in preparation for all contingencies, an emergency exists statewide,” the executive order states.
Under the order, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management is directed to coordinate statewide preparedness and response efforts. All appropriate state agencies are authorized to activate their emergency plans and deploy available resources as needed.
The executive order also calls the Maryland National Guard into state service to assist with emergency operations, including potential transportation disruptions, power restoration efforts, and support for local governments responding to storm-related impacts.
State officials warned that critical infrastructure, including transportation systems, electric and water utilities, could be negatively affected by the storm. The order allows for the waiver of certain regulations and the activation of emergency contracts to facilitate rapid response and recovery efforts under Maryland law.
Local and state agencies may also require additional resources to address sheltering needs if residents are displaced due to power outages or unsafe conditions, the order notes.
The declaration was signed by Moore in Annapolis on January 23 and took effect immediately. Secretary of State Susan C. Lee attested to the order under the Great Seal of the State of Maryland.
Residents are urged to monitor official state and local communications for updates on road conditions, emergency shelter availability, and public safety guidance as the storm approaches.
