Governor John W. Hickenlooper declared a disaster emergency in Colorado due to a propane supply shortage, potentially impacting 33,000 propane customers in predominately rural regions. These customers may not be able to receive enough propane to heat their homes in the near future. Hickenlooper issued a verbal executive order just after 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 24, due to propane production issues, anticipated severe weather conditions, and an ongoing propane supply shortage.