January 28, 2026
Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998
Central Shenandoah Health District Offers Safety Tips to Stay Warm During Extreme Cold
STAUNTON, Va. – As the Shenandoah Valley continues to see dangerously cold temperatures, hypothermia and frostbite are real concerns. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) urges you to take steps to keep you and your family warm, dry and healthy during this storm.
“While the storm has moved through our region, prolonged cold temperatures continue to pose serious health risks,” says Xavier Crockett, health director for CSHD. “Taking simple precautions can prevent injuries and keep our communities safe.”
Hypothermia occurs most commonly at very cold environmental temperatures but can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water. Signs to look out for include shivering, exhaustion or fatigue, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and/or drowsiness. In babies look for bright red, cold skin and very low energy.
Frostbite is a type of injury caused by freezing. If you notice redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold. The skin will feel numb, unusually firm or waxy, and can also appear white or grayish yellow. If you have frostbite, you may not know until someone else points it out because the frozen parts of your body are numb.
The Central Shenandoah Health District encourages you to take these steps to prevent hypothermia, frostbite and other potential injuries.
Staying Warm
- Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold.
- Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water.
- Eating healthy meals will help to keep your body temperature warm.
- Stay hydrated even during the cold to prevent hypothermia. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. They cause your body to lose heat faster. Drink warm beverages or broth.
- Keep extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats on hand for use in cold rooms.
- Charge all your devices (medical equipment, phone, computer, tablet, radio, etc.).
- Check on neighbors, friends, and family.
- For a list of warming centers in your area, call 2-1-1 or visit org/
- Check this list for warming shelters located within CSHD:
- Central United Methodist Church, 14 N. Lewis St., Staunton, VA, 24401
- Waynesboro Area Refuge Ministry (WARM), check here for rotating locations.
- Open Doors, 1111 N. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA, 28802
- Check this list for warming shelters located within CSHD:
If You Go Outside
If you must go outside, please take these precautions:
- Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes to prevent frostbite.
- Be aware of the wind chill factor.
- Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.
- Avoid getting wet. If you get wet, change out of wet clothes as soon as possible to prevent hypothermia.
- Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors.
If You Must Drive
- If you must travel, check the road conditions and your route first.
- Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation.
- If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.
- Always carry extra warm clothing and blankets with Don’t rely on a car to provide enough heat.
If you have chronic conditions, please reach out to your healthcare provider to make sure together you have a care plan in place. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines.
If you notice signs of frostbite and hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.
If you have questions, please contact the Central Shenandoah Health District at cshdinfo@vdh.virginia.gov.