January 23, 2026 Governor Morrisey Requests Presidential Emergency Declaration Ahead of Historic Winter Storm ...

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Today, Governor Patrick Morrisey has formally requested that President Donald Trump issue a Presidential Emergency Disaster Declaration for the State of West Virginia in advance of a severe winter storm expected to impact all 55 counties beginning Saturday, January 24, 2026.

According to the National Weather Service, the storm is expected to bring extreme snowfall, significant ice accumulation, and dangerously cold temperatures, creating life-threatening conditions across the state. West Virginia's mountainous terrain and narrow transportation corridors increase the risk of communities becoming isolated and critical infrastructure being impacted.

Due to the severity of the threat, Governor Morrisey declared a State of Emergency statewide on Friday, January 23.

After consultation with FEMA and Federal Homeland Security, it was determined that a Presidential Emergency Declaration was appropriate because it would allow federal authorities to stage assets in advance of the storm. It would also allow the federal government to deliver assistance at an accelerated rate should the conditions dictate.