WINDOW ROCK – The Navajo Nation Commission on Emergency Management, with President Buu Nygren’s concurrence, has officially declared a State of Emergency in response to severe winter weather impacting communities across the Navajo Nation.
This resolution was enacted in collaboration with the Commission on Emergency Management and the Department of Emergency Management to ensure a unified, proactive and preemptive approach to disaster preparedness and response. Together, these entities are working to monitor conditions, support local chapters, and implement strategies to reduce risks before conditions worsen.
This declaration comes as snowfall, freezing temperatures, and anticipated snow melt create serious public health and safety risks, particularly for residents living in remote and isolated areas. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory from January 23 through January 24, forecasting 2 to 6 inches of snow, with higher elevations receiving up to 12 inches, leading to slick roads, reduced visibility, and dangerous travel conditions in areas including Ganado, Window Rock, the Chuska Mountains, and the Defiance Plateau.
What this declaration means for the Navajo Nation:
- It authorizes the immediate mobilization of emergency resources, including personnel, equipment, funding, and supplies.
- It strengthens coordination among chapters, emergency responders, Navajo Nation departments, and partner agencies to meet urgent needs such as road safety, heating and wood requests, water access, and infrastructure protection.
- It emphasizes preemptive planning, addressing not only current snowstorms but also mud, flooding, and access issues caused by snow melt.
- It ensures continued assessments, communication, and prioritization to protect lives and community well-being.
The declaration is effective immediately and will remain in place through April 30, 2026, unless extended. The Department of Emergency Management will provide a status report in April to determine ongoing needs.
“The safety and well-being of our people is always our top priority,” said President Buu Nygren. “As we face this severe winter weather, I urge everyone to check on their elders and neighbors, make sure homes are stocked with food, water, and necessary supplies, and take precautions to stay safe. By looking out for one another, we can protect lives and keep our communities strong during these dangerous conditions.”
Residents are urged to use caution, stay informed, and follow local advisories as winter conditions continue across the Navajo Nation.
To report utility outages:
1-800-528-5011
www.ntua.com
For road condition updates and assistance, contact Navajo DOT at (505) 371-8300.
For public safety or emergency assistance, contact Navajo Nation Police Dispatch at (928) 871-6111.
Weather Advisory Sources
Stay informed by monitoring trusted weather outlets:
- National Weather Service (NWS): https://www.weather.gov
- NOAA Weather Radio: https://www.weather.gov/nwr
- Weather.gov Local Forecasts: https://forecast.weather.gov
- Weather Underground: https://www.wunderground.com
- The Weather Channel: https://weather.com
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