Due to safety concerns regarding the winter storm that is coming through the area today, Gov. Laura Kelly has declared inclement weather, ordering an early release of non-essential state employees in Shawnee County for January 22nd.

State offices closed at 2 p.m. Nonessential employees should be cautious on their drive home as temperatures continue to drop.

Weather and road conditions will be monitored this evening. More information will be released tonight regarding state office hours tomorrow.

Note: This declaration does not include employees in the Board of Regents, Regents Institutions, the Judicial Branch, nor the Legislative Branch of Government. Their designated representative will make a separate declaration for those employees if appropriate.

Appointing authorities in offices located outside Shawnee County have the option to declare Inclement Weather for those counties.