Federal Emergency Declaration Approved to Support South Carolina Winter Storm Response
January 24, 2026
Governor Henry McMaster has announced that his request for a federal emergency disaster declaration has been approved, unlocking additional federal support as South Carolina responds to the ongoing winter storm.
The approval, granted by President Donald Trump, authorizes Direct Federal Assistance for South Carolina. This allows access to federal personnel, equipment, and other resources to help supplement state and local response efforts. The assistance covers all 46 counties in the state as well as the Catawba Indian Nation under the federal Public Assistance (PA) program.
The Public Assistance program provides support to state, local, tribal, and certain nonprofit organizations for emergency work and the repair or replacement of infrastructure damaged by disasters. This can include debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repairs to public facilities.
A federal emergency declaration is typically requested when a hazard event is imminent or already occurring and federal resources may be needed to support preparation and initial response efforts. State officials continue working closely with local emergency management teams to address storm impacts and ensure communities have the resources needed to respond.
The South Carolina Emergency Operations Center will keep monitoring storm-related damage and response costs. Additional requests for federal assistance could be made if conditions warrant further support.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local emergency management and public safety agencies as winter weather conditions continue to affect parts of the state.
