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FEMA announced today that the Commonwealth of Virginia will receive federal disaster assistance to support state and local response efforts following a severe winter storm that began on January 22, 2026, and continues to impact the region.
The emergency declaration authorizes FEMA to coordinate all federal disaster relief activities aimed at reducing the hardship caused by the storm, safeguarding lives and property, protecting public health and safety, and helping prevent further damage across the Commonwealth.
Under the declaration, FEMA may identify, mobilize, and deploy the resources and equipment needed to address the effects of the storm. Emergency protective measures—limited to direct federal assistance—will be funded at 75 percent through FEMA’s Public Assistance program.
Nancy M. Casper has been appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer to oversee federal response operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be issued if requested by the state and supported by future damage assessments.