Trump Prepares For Chaos
Federal and state officials are intensifying emergency preparations as a powerful winter storm is expected to sweep across large portions of the country, stretching from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic Coast and impacting millions of Americans.
The National Weather Service warned Saturday that severe winter conditions could bring heavy snowfall, hazardous travel, and dangerously cold temperatures to multiple regions.
Severe Impacts Expected Across Several States
The agency’s Winter Storm Severity Index indicated the potential for extreme conditions in parts of northern Mississippi, while major impacts were forecast for Washington, D.C., and surrounding states. Forecasters warned that snow could fall at rates of two to three inches per hour, making road travel extremely dangerous.
Emergency Declarations Issued Ahead of the Storm
Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser declared a state of emergency Friday, effective Saturday at noon, citing the likelihood of severe weather disruptions and safety risks. Governors across several affected states issued similar emergency orders as the storm approached.
Federal Offices Closed, Telework Expanded
The Office of Personnel Management announced that federal offices in the Washington area will be closed Monday, with maximum telework policies in place to reduce travel risks.
OPM Director Scott Kupor encouraged federal workers to remain cautious and prioritize safety during the storm.
Storm Disrupts Congressional Schedule
The storm has also delayed activity on Capitol Hill. Senate leaders postponed votes until Tuesday, tightening the timeline for lawmakers attempting to pass a funding package to avoid a partial government shutdown.
The House approved a Republican-backed funding bill earlier in the week, but the legislation still faces hurdles in the Senate as lawmakers race against the clock.
Severe weather delays in Washington are rare but not unheard of. In 2010, the historic “Snowmageddon” blizzard brought much of the capital to a standstill for days.
President Trump Authorizes Federal Assistance
Beyond the nation’s capital, the administration has initiated federal response measures, with President Donald Trump authorizing emergency disaster declarations for 10 more states, clearing the way for FEMA assistance.
The latest approvals extend to Indiana, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Maryland, and West Virginia, while South Carolina and Virginia received authorization earlier.
President Trump said on Truth Social that his administration is coordinating with FEMA, governors, and state emergency officials to protect public safety, urging Americans to remain safe and warm.
FEMA Monitoring Conditions Nationwide
FEMA reported Saturday that its National Response Coordination Center remains at Level 3, indicating a moderate federal response posture. Officials said the agency is coordinating with the Departments of Energy, Transportation, and Health and Human Services to provide support if conditions worsen.
Health and Human Services confirmed it is prepared to staff emergency operations centers at both the federal and state levels if requested.
