MEDIA RELEASE
BOLIVIA, N.C. – Brunswick County Chairman Mike Forte has issued a state of emergency effective Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at 4 p.m. due to the imminent threats posed by Winter Storm Gianna.
A state of emergency is when a government officially declares that unusual conditions require special measures to protect people and property. It gives officials extra authority to respond quickly and allocate resources.
This proclamation allows the Sheriff’s Office to control ingress and egress as well as the movement of persons within roadways where necessary for the safety of the public.
This proclamation does not trigger the limitations on weapons in North Carolina General Statute 14-288.7 or impose any limitations on the consumption, transportation, sale, or purchase of alcoholic beverages.
The proclamation may be amended in the future should other measures become appropriate.
The Brunswick County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is currently at Level 2 – Partial Activation, with representatives from our core public safety, water and sewer utilities, social services, and other essential personnel helping coordinate important services, maintain communications with our local and state partners, and address needs before and during the storm.
Essential Brunswick County team members are also working at various locations countywide to continue providing our community with public safety, emergency medical response, utility services, and communications support throughout the weekend.
Find the latest updates and information at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/winter.
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