Bucks County declares disaster emergency as Winter Storm Hernando targets region

 The Bucks County Board of Commissioners has approved a Declaration of Disaster Emergency ahead of a powerful winter storm expected to bring heavy snow and potential blizzard conditions to the region.

The declaration took effect at noon Sunday, as Winter Storm Hernando began moving into the area.

According to the National Weather Service, as of Sunday morning, 18 inches or more of snow could blanket Bucks County from Sunday into Monday.

Emergency Operations Center activation

The declaration authorizes the Bucks County Emergency Management Agency to more efficiently respond to storm-related conditions. The county’s Emergency Operations Center is being activated to monitor the storm and coordinate resource requests from first responders.

County officials said the predicted heavy snow and blizzard conditions threaten the health, safety and welfare of a substantial number of residents and could create problems greater than the county can address without emergency measures.

What the declaration allows

Under the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Services Code, the declaration:

• Directs the county’s emergency management coordinator to oversee response activities.
• Authorizes actions needed to restore essential public services.
• Permits the temporary suspension of certain procedural requirements, excluding constitutional mandates, to expedite public works, contracts, equipment rentals, hiring of temporary workers and the purchase of supplies.

Officials said the measure is designed to reduce the severity of the disaster and ensure a faster, more coordinated response.

Bucks County EMA urged residents to:

• Charge electronic devices in advance.
• Avoid non-essential travel.
• Monitor official county communications for updates.

With blizzard conditions possible and significant snowfall forecast, county leaders emphasized preparedness and patience as crews work to keep roads open and respond to emergencies throughout the storm.