Washington, January 25, 2026
A historic winter storm sweeping across the United States has prompted federal emergency declarations and widespread disruption, affecting tens of millions of residents, grounding thousands of flights and upending daily life across the country.
President Donald Trump approved federal emergency disaster declarations for multiple states as the storm—widely referred to by forecasters as one of the most severe in recent memory—continues to pound large swaths of the nation with snow, ice and sub-freezing temperatures.
Federal Emergency Declarations and Response
In response to the deteriorating conditions, President Trump authorized emergency declarations for numerous states, enabling the deployment of federal resources through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and coordination with state and local authorities.
Officials have urged residents to take the storm seriously, with the National Weather Service warning of hazardous travel conditions, heavy snow, and freezing rain across central and eastern regions of the U.S.
Widespread Impact and Travel Chaos
The storm has triggered widespread travel disruption. According to airline and aviation tracking data, more than 9,000 flights have been canceled across major U.S. airports as of Sunday, as heavy snowfall, ice and frigid temperatures make flight operations unsafe.
Travelers have faced significant delays and cancellations as airline carriers adjust schedules and passengers seek shelter from the storm’s effects.
Millions Affected and Power Disruptions
The severe weather has touched nearly half of the country’s population, with some reports indicating that well over 200 million people are within the storm’s footprint. In many areas, power outages have been reported as utility grids are taxed by ice and heightened electrical demand.
Emergency officials are advising residents to remain indoors, prepare for prolonged cold and avoid non-essential travel until conditions improve.
State and Local Emergency Actions
In addition to federal action, dozens of states and the District of Columbia have declared local states of emergency, bolstering resources to assist in snow removal, emergency services, and support for vulnerable populations.
Authorities from Washington, D.C. to New England are mobilizing snow crews, coordinating shelter space for residents, and reinforcing infrastructure to sustain through the storm.
