wes moore

Maryland Governor Wes Moore Declares State of Emergency for Major Winter Storm

A significant winter storm has descended upon the Mid-Atlantic region, prompting Maryland Governor Wes Moore to declare a State of Emergency. The declaration, issued on January 25, 2026, activates the state’s emergency operations center and mobilizes the Maryland National Guard to prepare for what officials are calling a potentially historic weather event.

With forecasts predicting heavy snowfall, sleet, and freezing rain across the entire state, Governor Moore is urging residents to take the storm seriously. "This storm is expected to impact the entire state of Maryland," Moore stated, emphasizing the severity of the incoming system. The declaration allows for the coordination of resources across state and local agencies to ensure a swift response to hazardous road conditions and power outages.

The Winter Storm: What We Know So Far

The winter storm began impacting the region on Saturday, January 25, 2026, with conditions expected to deteriorate through the weekend. The combination of heavy snow and freezing rain presents a dual threat: significant accumulation on roadways and the potential for downed power lines due to the weight of ice on trees and power infrastructure.

According to reports from WTOP, the storm is set to coat the Washington, D.C. region with a dangerous mix of precipitation. While the capital braces for sleet and ice, areas further north and west in Maryland are bracing for substantial snowfall totals.

Snowfall Totals and Forecasts

Baltimore and its surrounding counties are at the center of the snowfall estimates. WBAL-TV reports that snow totals in Baltimore are already beginning to accumulate as the storm intensifies. Forecasts earlier in the week suggested the potential for up to 10 inches of snow in some parts of the D.C. metro area, with varying amounts depending on the precise track of the low-pressure system.

The National Weather Service has highlighted the unpredictability of the precipitation types. As temperatures fluctuate at the ground level, residents may see periods of heavy snow followed by sleet or freezing rain, complicating travel and cleanup efforts.

"This storm is expected to impact the entire state of Maryland." — Governor Wes Moore

Governor Moore’s Emergency Declaration and Response

The State of Emergency is not just a formality; it is a critical operational tool. By activating this status, Governor Moore has authorized the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) to coordinate a comprehensive response across all jurisdictions.

Mobilizing Resources

The declaration allows for the deployment of the Maryland National Guard to areas that may require assistance with rescues, logistics, or clearing roadways. It also streamlines the process for obtaining federal assistance should the damage exceed state capabilities.

Attorney General Anthony Brown and other state officials have echoed the Governor's sentiments, urging residents to stay off the roads to allow plows and emergency responders to do their jobs. The focus is on public safety, with officials warning that travel during the peak of the storm could be life-threatening.

Historical Context: Winters in the Mid-Atlantic

While the January 2026 storm is making headlines for its size, winter storms are not uncommon in Maryland. The region sits in a climatic sweet spot where cold Arctic air often collides with moisture coming up from the Atlantic or the Gulf of Mexico, creating "Nor'easters" capable of dumping massive amounts of snow.

A History of Major Storms

Maryland has weathered several historic winter storms in recent decades. The "Storm of the Century" in 1993, the "Snowmageddon" of 2010, and the "bomb cyclone" of 2018 all serve as precedents for the current situation. These events highlighted the importance of state-level coordination and the critical role of utility companies in restoring power.

Governor Moore’s administration appears to be leveraging lessons learned from these past events. The early declaration of a State of Emergency suggests a proactive approach, aiming to prevent the gridlock that often accompanies sudden, heavy snowfall in urban centers like Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

The Political and Social Landscape

Governor Moore, who took office in 2023, has faced various challenges during his tenure, ranging from economic initiatives to infrastructure improvements. This winter storm serves as a high-stakes test of his administration’s crisis management capabilities. How the state handles the cleanup and recovery will likely influence public perception of his leadership during emergencies.

Immediate Effects on Daily Life

The immediate impact of the storm is already being felt across the state. The combination of heavy snow and ice has forced the closure of schools, government offices, and many private businesses. Residents are urged to check local listings for closures.

Travel and Transportation

Travel has become hazardous. Major arteries such as I-95, I-70, and the Capital Beltway are seeing significant reductions in traffic, though accidents are still being reported. Air travel at Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) and Reagan National (DCA) has been severely disrupted, with hundreds of flights canceled.

Public transit options are also limited. Local bus services are running on reduced schedules, and MARC train service is experiencing delays. Officials emphasize that if travel is not absolutely necessary, residents should remain at home.

Power Outages and Utilities

The most significant concern regarding immediate effects is the potential for widespread power outages. The combination of heavy, wet snow and ice is particularly dangerous for power lines. * BGE (Baltimore Gas and Electric) and Pepco have placed crews on standby to address outages as they occur. * Residents are advised to have flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food items ready in case of prolonged power loss. * Space heaters should be used with extreme caution to prevent house fires.

Future Outlook: Recovery and Road to Normalcy

As the storm moves out of the region, the focus will shift from immediate safety to long-term recovery. The timeline for returning to normal operations will depend heavily on the total snowfall accumulation and the extent of any ice accumulation.

The Cleanup Process

Snow removal is a massive undertaking for the state. Governor Moore has indicated that resources will be deployed strategically to clear major arteries first, followed by secondary roads. * Phase 1: Clearing emergency routes and highways to ensure access for first responders. * Phase 2: Clearing primary roads and connecting neighborhoods to essential services. * Phase 3: Addressing residential streets and side roads.

Residents are reminded that shoveling snow can be physically taxing and dangerous. Heart attacks and injuries spike during winter storms due to overexertion.

Potential Risks and Strategic Implications

Looking ahead, the immediate risks include hypothermia, carbon monoxide poisoning from generators, and traffic accidents during the melting and refreezing cycle. As temperatures dip after the storm, slushy roads will turn to ice, creating a second wave of hazardous conditions.

For the state government, the storm highlights the importance of infrastructure resilience. The 2026 storm may accelerate discussions regarding budget allocations for road maintenance, utility grid hardening, and emergency response training.

Conclusion

The winter storm impacting Maryland in late January 2026 is a significant weather event demanding vigilance and caution from all residents. Governor Wes Moore’s State of Emergency declaration underscores the gravity of the situation, mobilizing state resources to protect life and property.

While the snow and ice will eventually melt, the importance of community preparedness remains a constant. By following official guidance and staying informed through trusted sources like WBAL-TV and WTOP, Maryland residents can weather this storm safely. As the state moves toward recovery, the resilience of its communities and the efficiency of its emergency response systems will be on full display.

For the latest updates on road conditions and closures, residents are encouraged to monitor local news outlets and visit the Maryland Emergency Management Agency website.