state of emergency

American  

[steyt uhv i-mur-juhn-see] / ˈsteɪt əv ɪˈmɜr dʒən si /

noun

1. a situation of urgent need for help and relief, brought about by a natural disaster, act of terrorism, or other crisis, especially as declared by a governor, president, mayor, or other official.

   As devastation from last night’s tornadoes continues to be assessed, the governor has declared a state of emergency in the three worst-hit counties.

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Etymology

Origin of state of emergency

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

state of emergency

The lack of rain has contributed to water shortages and rationing in some communities, prompting Puerto Rico's governor to declare a state of emergency in late July.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 4, 2026

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County late Saturday, saying that the fire “is spreading quickly and threatening homes and structures.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 23, 2026

A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Colombia on 10 August, prompting a state of emergency to be declared.

From BBC ● Aug. 21, 2026

"It's a serious storm," Governor Josh Green said, proclaiming a state of emergency to ensure the state and its counties "have sufficient resources to clear debris, secure infrastructure, and take other measures to prepare."

From Barron's ● Aug. 15, 2026

He jogged down to the Shop, imitating Tomás’s perpetual state of emergency, which is exactly what Chase would be in if it started to rain after he pulled everything out.

From "Storm Runners" by Roland Smith