Georgia, South Carolina Declare State of Emergency Ahead of Weekend Snow

Governors in both states mobilize resources and activate emergency plans as winter storm approaches

Jan. 30, 2026 at 10:47am

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The governors of Georgia and South Carolina have declared states of emergency ahead of expected snowfall this weekend. The winter storm is expected to bring slushy snow to the region starting Saturday morning and lasting through Sunday. By declaring a state of emergency, state agencies can mobilize resources and the National Guard can begin activating personnel to respond to the storm. Residents are encouraged to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.

Why it matters

Declaring a state of emergency allows state governments to quickly access additional resources and coordinate emergency response efforts. This is particularly important for winter storms, which can create hazardous driving conditions and potential power outages. Proactive measures help ensure public safety and minimize disruptions to communities.

The details

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp both issued state of emergency declarations on Friday ahead of the expected winter weather. The snow is forecast to reach the states starting Saturday morning and could last all day, possibly into Sunday. By declaring a state of emergency, state agencies can mobilize resources and the National Guard can begin activating personnel. Some rules and regulations are also suspended for commercial vehicles to allow emergency response resources to be transported quickly.

  • The winter storm is expected to bring snow to the region starting Saturday morning.
  • The state of emergency declarations in both states will remain in effect through February 6.

The players

Henry McMaster

The Governor of South Carolina who declared a state of emergency ahead of the expected winter weather.

Brian P. Kemp

The Governor of Georgia who declared a statewide state of emergency on Friday ahead of Saturday's winter weather.

Josh Lamb

The Director of the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, which has been directed to activate the State Operations Center.

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What they’re saying

“While Mother Nature may not be giving us a break with these back-to-back storms, the good news is we don't take any days off when it comes to keeping Georgia communities prepared and safe.”

— Brian P. Kemp, Governor of Georgia

“As this winter weather moves into Georgia, we encourage residents to stay home if possible before and during the storm.”

— Josh Lamb, Director, Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency

What’s next

The governors in both states will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates to residents. Transportation crews will remain focused on treating and clearing roads as the winter weather moves through the region.

The takeaway

Declaring a state of emergency ahead of severe winter weather is a proactive measure that allows state governments to quickly mobilize resources and coordinate emergency response efforts. This helps ensure public safety and minimizes disruptions to communities during potentially hazardous conditions.