How is an emergency declaration different from a presidential declaration?

Emergency declarations can be issued at the local, state, territorial, tribal, and federal levels to activate resources and coordinate responses to disasters. 

State and local officials can issue emergency declarations to immediately mobilize local resources and implement emergency plans. This can occur before, during or immediately after the disaster occurs. If a disaster overwhelms state and local capacity, officials may request a presidential declaration. 

If approved, a presidential declaration triggers a federal response, providing additional resources and support. Federal agencies work with state and local governments to assess damage, determine needs, and allocate aid. This coordinated effort ensures a comprehensive response to large-scale disasters. Unlike an emergency declaration which can be issued before or immediately after a disaster, a presidential declaration can take a few days or even weeks to be issued. 

To learn more, visit How a Disaster Gets Declared.