[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today issued an executive order providing emergency assistance to Winona County following a cyberattack on Monday, April 6, 2026, that disrupted critical systems and digital services. The attack continued into Tuesday, April 7, significantly impairing the county’s ability to deliver vital emergency and municipal services.

“Cyberattacks are an evolving threat that can strike anywhere, at any time,” said Governor Walz. “Swift coordination between state and local experts matters in these moments. That's why I am authorizing the National Guard to support Winona County as they work to protect critical systems and maintain essential services.”

Winona County officials have been working around the clock in coordination with Minnesota Information Technology Services, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the League of Minnesota Cities, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and external cybersecurity experts. Due to the scale and complexity of the incident, Winona County requested cyber protection support from the Minnesota National Guard to ensure continuity of municipal operations. 

The executive order activating this support takes effect immediately.