President Donald Trump has approved 12 federal emergency declarations across multiple states to support state-led responses to ongoing severe winter weather.
The declarations cover Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
They allow states to access federal resources through FEMA, including financial assistance covering 75% of eligible disaster-related costs, to help restore power, clear roads, and provide essential services.
Under the direction of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, FEMA is coordinating with state and local authorities to support response efforts.
The agency has deployed approximately 900 personnel, including staff embedded in state emergency operations centers, and has pre-positioned supplies such as generators, meals, water, blankets, cots, and medical equipment.
FEMA has also deployed specialized teams to Texas, Louisiana, and Virginia, with additional teams on standby. Twenty-seven Urban Search and Rescue task forces are available to assist at the request of state governors.
Officials advise residents to follow local guidance, avoid nonessential travel, and exercise safety precautions, including proper use of generators and heating equipment.
