Governor Polis Declares Disaster Emergency, Activates National Guard Amid Historic Colorado Snowstorm

Governor Jared Polis has declared a disaster emergency in response to a significant snowstorm impacting Colorado’s eastern plains and Front Range. The declaration, made on Thursday evening, was in anticipation of severe winter weather expected to last from Friday through Saturday morning.

The storm is forecasted to bring substantial snowfall, with the Denver Metro Area expected to receive 9-12 inches of snow, and parts of southern Colorado potentially seeing 1-3 feet of new snow. Weather forecasters predict snowfall rates of up to 2 inches per hour, which could lead to hazardous travel conditions and significant disruptions to daily life.

As part of the emergency declaration, Governor Polis activated members of the Colorado National Guard to provide winter storm support. The activation includes the deployment of unarmed National Guard members to assist with emergency response efforts. The Colorado State Emergency Operations Center and the State Emergency Operations Plan have also been activated to coordinate the state’s response to the storm.

In addition to the military deployment, Governor Polis ordered state employees along the Front Range to work remotely on Friday if possible. Public-facing state offices have the discretion to close based on weather conditions, with facilities in southern and southeastern Colorado likely to close for the full day. However, state facilities essential to public health and safety will maintain regular operating hours, and essential staff will report to work as usual.

The Office of Emergency Management has been directed to assist areas hit hardest by the storm and to mobilize state resources to support rescue efforts and other emergency operations. The public is advised to check specific facilities or agencies for updates on closures and delays.