Mayor Muriel Bowser has extended the readiness status for two more weeks, and here is how it will affect D.C. residents.

Chaotic demonstrations this week in the nation's capital led to a 6 p.m. curfew on Wednesday and a state of emergency declaration. The extension, effective until January 21, was made by mayoral order and will remain in place until after the presidential inauguration.

In a nutshell, a state of emergency is a technical term that allows local government to access funds and resources outside of the regular budget. It also paves the way for last-minute local changes like curfews, road closures, and increased law enforcement presence.

District employees may see a change in their work hours or assignments as needed, especially those in law enforcement and transportation. The order allows for the flexibility of roles as needed to respond to any emergencies that may come up leading up to and including the upcoming inauguration events.

Evening curfews have a significant effect on local businesses, who have to abide by them by closing down as well. Hard-hit industries like small retail businesses and restaurants tie their daily sales directly to local foot traffic or lack thereof. In a tourist-heavy area like D.C., any curfews that cut into business hours can be devastating.

For more information about the mayoral order, visit the official government website and read the document in full. You can also get updated information on road closures and procedural changes around the inauguration on the website for the Metropolitan Police Department.

What are your thoughts on the current state of emergency in D.C.? Sound off in the comments.