MARYLAND (DC News Now) -- Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency across Maryland and closed the state government due to a winter storm. This announcement comes after Moore previously declared a state of preparedness on Saturday. The shift means that immediate actions are being taken to safeguard Marylanders. According to state officials, the winter storm is forecasted to impact the state until Jan. 7. The storm will also cause hazardous road conditions and affect public transportation across the state. Mayor Bowser declares snow emergency for DC “Keeping Marylanders safe is our top priority. Please stay off the roads during this storm. Prepare your home and family and charge your communications devices in case you lose power,” said Gov. Moore. Snow began falling in western Maryland on Sunday evening and areas with the most active part of the storm can see about  8”-12”, with 1”-2” potentially falling each hour. Officials said that threats from the storm increased due to low temperatures and windchill which can lead to icy roadways, frozen pipes, and extreme cold. Schools across DMV closed because of winter storm In addition, all state and local government officials coordinated resources to prepare for the storm. State and county emergency operations centers have upgraded their activation levels and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management will be fully activated on Jan. 6. Officials said here are a few ways to stay safe during winter storms: Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.  Watch for symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite - it can set in quickly, especially if you have exposed skin or have been outside in the cold for an extended period of time. Please avoid travel if possible. If you absolutely must travel, be sure to let someone know your route and destination before you go.  Know your evacuation routes. To keep your home and family prepared for the storm, Marylanders are encouraged to: Include blankets, hats, mittens, and other warm clothing in your preparedness kit during winter months. Bring pets inside if possible, or create a safe space for outdoor animal companions to keep warm, safe from the elements, and able to find food. Winterize your vehicle and keep your gas tank at least half full to keep ice from building up in your gas tank and fuel lines. Take precautions to prevent pipes from freezing. Keep a supply of driveway salt or non-clumping kitty litter ready to go. You can spread either on outdoor surfaces to combat ice and make them less slippery. Check your home's smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they work and have good batteries.  Check for updates from the National Weather Service, and sign up for MdReady text alerts to receive news about storms, watches, and warnings.