Hospitals Prepare for Busy Weekend Amid Snowstorm

Staff ready to handle increase in weather-related injuries and illnesses

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:55pm

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As a major snowstorm approaches the Norfolk, Virginia area this weekend, hospital staff are preparing for a surge in emergency room visits. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital's Clinical Nurse Manager Rachel Huovinen says they expect to see more trauma cases like car accidents, slips and falls, as well as cold-weather related issues like frostbite and hypothermia. The hospital is staffing up and ready to shelter staff overnight if needed to ensure they can provide care throughout the storm.

Why it matters

Severe winter weather often leads to a spike in emergency room visits, putting a strain on hospital resources. By preparing ahead of time, hospitals can better handle the influx and ensure they can provide timely care to those in need during the storm.

The details

Huovinen explained that when the body gets too cold, it begins shivering as a natural response to warm back up. She stressed the importance of wearing warm, layered clothing to retain body heat and prevent cold-related injuries. The hospital is also urging neighbors to check on vulnerable residents who may be at greater risk during the extreme cold. Meanwhile, local retailers like Academy Sports and Outdoors have seen a surge in shoppers stocking up on winter gear like boots, jackets, and flashlights.

  • This weekend's snowstorm is expected to hit the Norfolk area.

The players

Rachel Huovinen

Clinical Nurse Manager of the Emergency Department at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.

Philip Powell

Sales manager at Academy Sports and Outdoors in Virginia Beach.

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What they’re saying

“We tend to see a lot of increase in our trauma population.”

— Rachel Huovinen, Clinical Nurse Manager

“It's really important that we're dressed for that type of weather, and that we have the proper clothing on to not only protect our skin, but also just keep that heat in.”

— Rachel Huovinen, Clinical Nurse Manager

“Altered, they're not speaking clearly, they look confused, not moving very quickly, those are definitely signs to check in and say, 'hey, are you okay?'”

— Rachel Huovinen, Clinical Nurse Manager

“Starting yesterday, we really saw a lot more people coming in, and at this point we're starting to see it pick up a little more as well, and probably going into tomorrow.”

— Philip Powell, Sales Manager

“A little bit of everything, snow boots, jackets, beanies, gloves, anything to keep your body covered. Also seeing a lot of people purchasing flashlights, batteries, propane.”

— Philip Powell, Sales Manager

What’s next

Hospital staff are prepared to shelter in place at the facility if necessary to ensure they can provide care throughout the storm.

The takeaway

By proactively preparing for the influx of weather-related injuries and illnesses, hospitals like Sentara Norfolk General can better serve their communities during severe winter storms and ensure those in need receive timely, quality care.