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From our State Capitol in Lansing to the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC, WKAR is committed to explaining how the actions of lawmakers are affecting Michiganders. Political and government reporter Abigail Censky leads this section. There are also stories from Capitol correspondents Cheyna Roth, Rick Pluta and the Associated Press. As the 2020 presidential race begins, look here for reports on the role Michigan will play in electing or re-electing the president.

Gov. Whitmer Declares State of Emergency in Michigan

WKAR Public Media

Published January 29, 2019 at 12:59 AM EST

Grand Ledge, snow, winter — Man shovels snow in Grand Ledge on January 28, 2019.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) declared of State of Emergency on Monday hours before extreme cold temperatures were forecasted arrive in Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

Emergency declaration from January 28, 2019.

Anticipating the extreme wind chills forecasted throughout Michigan, the governor made the declaration on Monday night.

Governor Whitmer tweeted: "Keeping Michiganders safe during this stretch of dangerously cold temperatures is our priority" and attached a 3-page declaration which included advice for safety during the cold.

The governor also activated the State Emergency Operations Center inside the Michigan State Police headquarters in Dimondale. The center coordinates response and recovery efforts throughout Michigan.

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Warning for Clare, Clinton, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Jackson, Mecosta, Montcalm and Osceola counties. Meteorologists warn wind chills could dip as low as 40 degrees below zero on Tuesday night.

On Monday, nonessential government offices in Michigan were closed, including the Capitol.

In the Capital region, the cities of Lansing and Jackson, as well as Meridian Township, have declared a snow emergency.