As the states of New York and California shut down to prevent the further spread of COVID-19, sources told SOFREP that this same type of shutdown might soon include the entire United States.

The federal government’s main goal is to “flatten the curve.” It is becoming more apparent that the most efficient and effective way to turn the corner on this virus is to implement complete closure of the country.

So, what does this mean?

We should expect drastic changes in our daily lives in the very near future. These dramatic alterations could last for several weeks, possibly longer. It can be expected that a national shutdown would similarly mirror the policies that New York and California have set in place:

Only essential personnel would be permitted to continue to work at their job’s locations; everyone else will be expected to work from home.

Businesses that would stay open would be grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants/liquor stores for delivery and carry-out orders. Healthcare facilities and veterinarian offices would stay open as well, staffed only by essential personnel and allowing everyone else to work from home. These measures echo the ones taken in most of Europe.

Group outdoor activities would be banned, permitting people to be outside in a solo capacity only and while maintaining proper distancing. A curfew would be likely.

Violations of these mandates may very well result in judicial punishment to businesses and individuals.

At this point, it is imperative that people begin provisioning for an extended stay within their homes. Although grocery stores will continue to stay open, if a full closure is put in place, a high level of panic can be expected, causing increased hoarding — stretching our supply chains close to the breaking point.

At a time like this, more is more. Create a detailed provision plan by forecasting out what you think you need for at least two weeks. Still, do not hoard, only purchase what you NEED. Stores are doing their best to prevent consumers from over-purchasing certain items, but each individual needs to do their part to maintain order.

So far, it seems that Americans are handling this situation well, treating each other with respect and being patient. If the situation becomes more extreme, desperation and volatility could be on the rise.

Use good judgment. Keep yourself and your family safe. Watch what others are doing and exercise extreme caution when you are in locations with large amounts of people (i.e. the grocery store). If you feel that things are amiss, and a situation is getting out of hand, just leave, it’s not worth the risk.

We can only hope that this crisis comes to a quick end, but we may have to make more difficult sacrifices before this is all over.