WINTER OVERFLOW WARNING ACTIVATED

📢 Community Update: Winter Overflow Warning (WOW) Activated

Office of Councilman Carlos Clanton

Norfolk’s Office of Emergency Management has activated a Winter Overflow Warning (WOW) beginning Monday, December 29, through Friday, January 2, due to forecasted freezing temperatures and hazardous overnight wind chills.

According to the latest National Weather Service forecast, temperatures are expected to fall below freezing each night, with sustained winds creating wind chills below 30 degrees. These conditions pose potentially life-threatening risks for individuals who remain unsheltered overnight.

To help keep our neighbors safe:

• First Presbyterian Church will serve as the designated winter overflow warming shelter through Sunday, January 4

• 📍 820 Colonial Avenue, Norfolk

• The Center will serve as a backup location if needed

❄️ When Winter Overflow Warming Shelters Are Activated

A winter overflow warming shelter is activated when:

• Forecasted high temperatures are 30° or below, or

• Temperatures are above 30° with any of the following conditions:

• Wet ground (rain or snow)

• Sustained winds producing wind chills below 30°

• Additional public health or emergency concerns identified by the Emergency Operations Team

These activations occur to prevent dangerous, life-threatening exposure for individuals who are unsheltered overnight.

🚨 How You Can Help

If you see someone in need of shelter:

• Call Norfolk Police Non-Emergency at (757) 441-5610

• Public safety personnel will assist in directing or transporting individuals to First Presbyterian Church

• If an individual is unable to walk, they will be transported to the hospital for medical attention

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Children

In accordance with policy, the Norfolk Department of Human Services assists families with children experiencing homelessness during WOW conditions.

Thank you for looking out for one another and helping ensure the safety and dignity of all members of our community during extreme weather.

— Councilman Carlos Clanton