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State Declared Emergencies: 

Get information about state and DMAS responses to declared emergencies

Press Releases: 

View the latest press releases from DMAS

WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY 

The Commonwealth of Virginia is preparing for a significant winter weather event expected to impact much of the state this weekend.  Governor Spanberger has declared a State of Emergency to support preparedness, response, and recovery efforts statewide.  Residents are encouraged to prepare now, stay informed, and take steps to remain safe during severe winter conditions.

Preparing at Home:

  • Ensure you have essential supplies on hand, including food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries and phone chargers.
  • Dress in warm layers and keep extra blankets available.
  • Take steps to protect your home from freezing temperatures, including safeguarding pipes.
  • Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning device inside your home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any other partially enclosed area.
  • Snow shoveling is a known trigger for heart attacks. Always avoid overexertion when shoveling.
  • Prepare for possible power outages by having backup power sources if available.
  • For additional tips, please visit: https://www.vaemergency.gov/threats/winter-weather

Travel & Commuting:

  • Stay off the roads during and after the storm as much as possible and only drive when absolutely necessary. Always give snowplows and responders the right of way. 
  • If you absolutely need to be somewhere, get to your destination before the storm begins
  • If you must travel, know road conditions before you leave home.  Visit 511.vdot.virginia.gov, check the 511 Virginia mobile app or call 511 for road condition updates.

Medicaid Transportation:

The Virginia Medicaid Program has been coordinating with the Managed Care Plans and their Non-Emergency Transportation Brokers to ensure that transportation and continuity of care is provided to Members, to ensure access to necessary and life sustaining care throughout the weather event. We will continue to stay connected with them to ensure safe transportation is functional to the highest level possible throughout the Commonwealth.

In the event that there are issues, the Medicaid Member should contact the respective NEMT Brokers listed on their Member ID cards.  If they are unable to resolve the issue satisfactorily, the transportation email (transportation@dmas.virginia.gov) is an additional contact that is available to ensure that we are aware of the situations and can coordinate with the necessary parties. 

 

State and VA Medicaid Resources to Help You Stay Safe and Informed

Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Tips:

VDH Response Page: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/news/winterstormjan2026/

VDH Power Outage Safety: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/news/public-relations-contacts/2026-news-releases/virginia-department-of-health-provides-tips-to-stay-warm-healthy-during-power-outage/

Commonwealth of Virginia Resources:

Need Help? 211 Virginia Can Connect You 

211 Virginia is a free, confidential, 24/7 resource that connects Virginians to essential services. During winter weather emergencies, 211 can help locate warming centers, emergency shelters, utility assistance, food resources, and other community support services. 

Call or Dial: 2-1-1 

Text: CONNECT to 247211 or

Visit: https://211virginia.org 

Governor’s Emergency Declaration and Updates

Virginia Emergency Management Winter Weather Guidance and Updates

Virginia Medicaid Resources:

Maximus, Enrollment Broker: The Cardinal Care Enrollment Broker provides three easy ways for members to learn about the managed care health plans, compare plan provider networks and enhanced benefits, and change plans. Download the free Virginia Cardinal Care Mobile App on your Android or iPhone, by searching for “Virginia Cardinal Care” on Google Play or the App Store.

Managed Care Plans:

Virginia Managed Care Website:  https://www.virginiamanagedcare.com/en

Managed Care Helpline Phone: 1-800-643-2273 (TTY: 1-800-817-6608)

Aetna Better Health of Virginia  1-800-279-1878 (TTY: 711)
Anthem HealthKeepers Plus  1-800-901-0020 (TTY: 711)
Humana Healthy Horizons in Virginia 1-844-881-4482 (TTY: 711)
Sentara Community Plan:  1-800-881-2166 (TTY: 711) (Northern VA Kaiser Permanente members: 1-855-249-5025)
United HealthCare 1-844-752-9434 (TTY: 711)

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