DC Mayor Muriel Bowser declares State of Emergency due to winter storm

WASHINGTON - Mayor Muriel Bowser has declared a State of Emergency throughout Washington, D.C. due to the incoming winter storm. 

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What is a state of emergency?

Dig deeper:

A state of emergency is a formal declaration by a governor (or mayor, in D.C.'s case) that conditions are severe enough to require coordination and resources to support local response efforts.

The declaration allows agencies to work together to prevent or reduce damage, hardship and threats to public safety during events such as winter storms.

READ MORE: DC Winter Storm: How much snow will we get?

FIND THE LATEST DC WINTER STORM FORECAST HERE

What the declaration actually does

When a state of emergency is declared, it allows officials to coordinate and deploy resources more quickly.

This can include activating emergency operations centers, positioning snowplows and road crews, coordinating  police and transportation agencies and preparing shelters or warming centers if needed.

The declaration can also help position a state (or the district) to request federal assistance if conditions worsen and exceed local capabilities.

READ MORE: What a winter weather ‘state of emergency means’ — and what it actually does

What it doesn’t automatically do

A state of emergency does not automatically mean people are required to stay home.

According to emergency management officials, the declaration alone does not:

• Ban travel or close roads
• Shut down schools or businesses
• Impose curfews or restrict movement

Those actions require separate, specific orders, which are typically announced if conditions become dangerous.

READ MORE: What are the biggest snowstorms in DC area history?

How residents should think about it

What you can do:

Emergency management officials say a state of emergency is best viewed as a government readiness tool, not a sign of panic.

For residents, it’s a signal to stay informed, follow weather forecasts, heed travel advisories and prepare for possible disruptions, especially as winter storms can evolve quickly.

Stay ahead of the snow with FOX 5’s expert meteorologists, streaming LIVE on FOX LOCAL. We’re streaming nonstop coverage with the newest forecasts, snow potential, and preparation tips—before the storm and all weekend long. Download FOX LOCAL for 24/7 weather coverage on your smart TV and mobile devices.