A state of emergency is a government declaration that due to some disaster or other crisis, the normal workings of political and social life are suspended in the affected jurisdiction. This means that governments can change the way they work, order certain actions by individuals or businesses, and suspend regular civil rights.

In a State of Emergency, Government officials may also recommend specific actions that citizens should take to ensure their safety. This will typically include things like travel restrictions, avoiding outdoor activities, closing public offices or schools and evacuations. The types of recommendations will vary depending on the incident.

States of emergency are generally used in response to natural disasters and disease outbreaks. However, they can be invoked to deal with other crises such as terrorist attacks and industrial action. Many states have specific statutes that allow the Governor to declare a state of emergency in specific circumstances. These statutes usually cover areas such as disease outbreaks, floods, earthquakes and other natural disasters.

State of emergencies allow the government to move quickly in responding to a crisis. This can help save lives and prevent property damage. However, they can also be abused to suppress internal opposition and restrict human rights.

In the United Kingdom, the British Sovereign can on the advice of the Privy Council or a Minister of the Crown make regulations under the Civil Contingencies Act in response to events such as war or attack by a foreign power and terrorism which threatens national security or serious damage to the environment of a place in the UK. These regulations are limited to thirty days and can only be extended by Parliament.