BEL AIR, Md., (Jan. 23, 2026) - Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly declared a local state of emergency on January 23, 2026, due to a winter storm forecasted by the National Weather Service. The declaration activates the county’s emergency operations plans and responses and directs county departments to coordinate response and recovery efforts with the Maryland Department of Emergency Management and other agencies. The county executive’s action follows a state of emergency declared earlier in the day by Maryland Governor Wes Moore and will allow Harford County to apply for federal funds to recoup storm-related expenses.
“As Harford County braces for the coming winter storm, I encourage our citizens to stay off the roads and stay inside, if possible,” County Executive Cassilly said. “Our Emergency Operations Center will be activated tomorrow with dedicated staff and first responders working around the clock to support our citizens throughout the storm.”
Citizens are encouraged to call 911 only for emergencies. The Harford County Hotline 410-838-5800 will be open at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, for non-emergency calls and to answer any questions citizens may have.
For more storm-related information and updates, please visit www.harfordcountymd.gov and follow Harford County Government and Harford County Emergency Services on Facebook.
Photo Caption: Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly, right, signs a local state of emergency declaration as Department of Emergency Services Director Rick Ayers looks on, Jan. 23, 2026.