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

The Philippines declared an energy state of emergency due to the imminent danger of critically low supply.

From The Wall Street Journal

Earlier this week, the Philippines declared a state of emergency to stabilize the country’s energy sector in the face of an “imminent danger of a critically low energy supply,” according to an executive order signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

From The Wall Street Journal

"We have not only gone to our...traditional oil suppliers, we have tried to explore other sources that are not affected by the war that is ongoing in the Middle East," he said in a press briefing addressing the state of emergency.

From Barron's

"The global climate is in a state of emergency. Planet Earth is being pushed beyond its limits. Every key climate indicator is flashing red," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

From Barron's

Additionally, it sets timelines for claims payments and prohibits insurers from halting payments for temporary housing until a home is cleared as safe, if a state of emergency has been declared.

From Los Angeles Times