Declaration of Disaster Emergency

WHEREAS, a winter storm consisting of rapidly accumulating, heavy snow is forecast to impact the entire State of Rhode Island beginning on Tuesday, February 13;

WHEREAS, severe weather conditions will make travel on State roads difficult and dangerous;

WHEREAS, the State seeks to prevent accidents involving tractor-trailer trucks on state roadways and minimize impediments to snow plowing activities during this snow event; and

WHEREAS, travel restrictions on tractor-trailers are necessary to enable public safety personnel to operate equipment and carry out tasks safely and effectively.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DANIEL J. McKEE, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Rhode Island, pursuant to Article IX of the Rhode Island Constitution and the Rhode Island General Laws, including, but not limited to, Title 3 0, Chapter 15, do hereby order and direct the following:

1. A state of disaster emergency is declared for the State of Rhode Island due to the dangers to public safety posed by this winter storm.
2. The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) is directed to stand up the state emergency operations center and to activate all other necessary state emergency response plans and policies.
3. All non-essential State offices and agencies shall be closed on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. All non-essential personnel shall be relieved from duty during this time. Essential personnel, as determined by their respective agencies, should report to work and/or remain at work.
4. Effective Tuesday, February 13, 2024, beginning at 12:00 a.m., all tractor-trailers are banned from travelling on interstate highways and state roads in Rhode Island.
5. Drivers of all other types of vehicles are strongly urged to use good judgment and stay off the roads until the snowstorm has passed and snow on the roads has been plowed.
6. Pursuant to the emergency powers granted by the Rhode Island General Laws, and any other applicable provisions of state or federal law, I may, from time to time, issue additional recommendations, directions and orders as circumstances require, either written or verbal.

This Order shall take effect immediately and shall remain in full force and effect until the threat or danger has passed or the emergency conditions no longer exist.

So Ordered:

Daniel J. McKee

Governor