INDIANA— Early Saturday evening, Governor Mike Braun issued a statewide disaster emergency declaration as a historic winter storm began its sweep across Indiana, threatening the state with life-threatening cold and record-breaking snowfall.
The declaration, effective immediately, comes as meteorologists predict snow accumulations could exceed 12 inches in central Indiana and reach up to 17 inches in southern regions by Monday morning.
The governor’s order shifts the state into a high-intensity response phase, directing the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) to lead all preparation, recovery, and mitigation efforts.
Key components of the declaration include:
- Agency Mobilization: All executive branch agencies are ordered to provide personnel and resources to support IDHS.
- Duration: The state of emergency will remain in effect for 60 days unless terminated earlier.
- National Guard on Standby: State police and the National Guard have been activated to assist with emergency rescues and road clearing.
In a statement shared on social media, Gov. Braun emphasized the severity of the situation:
“An emergency response declaration is necessary to address ongoing and future response efforts to this dangerous storm and to protect Hoosiers’ lives as conditions worsen.”
The state-level move follows an announcement from President Donald Trump, who approved a federal emergency declaration for Indiana and several neighboring states on Saturday afternoon. This federal backing allows for direct assistance from FEMA to supplement state and local efforts.
“We are working with FEMA, governors, and state emergency management teams to ensure the safety of everybody,” President Trump posted. “Stay safe and stay warm.”
