Houston-area hospitals are preparing to continue emergency and essential medical services as a winter storm is expected to bring freezing temperatures and dangerous travel conditions this weekend. While emergency departments and inpatient care will remain fully operational, some non-urgent medical appointments and outpatient services may be delayed to ensure the safety of patients and staff.
Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration on Thursday, warning that the storm could result in extremely cold conditions across Texas. Weather forecasts indicate that the Houston region may experience temperatures at or below freezing from late Saturday through Monday afternoon.
Hospitals across the Texas Medical Center and surrounding areas have maintained critical services during recent severe weather events, including Hurricane Beryl and the 2024 derecho. In similar situations, hospitals have chosen to close outpatient clinics and reschedule non-essential appointments to reduce travel risks.
Texas Children’s Hospital had not announced any service disruptions as of Friday morning. However, officials said weather conditions are being closely monitored. Dr. Brent Kaziny, medical director of emergency management at Texas Children’s Hospital, stated that the facility is well-prepared, drawing on experience from the 2021 winter freeze and last year’s Winter Storm Enzo. He noted that winter weather presents challenges that Southern states do not regularly face, making preparation especially critical.
Hospitals Activate Severe Weather Plans
Hospitals across Houston have activated severe weather protocols, which include inspecting heating and cooling systems, testing backup generators, and ensuring adequate fuel supplies. Facilities also rely on ride-out teams—essential staff members who stay on-site when travel becomes unsafe—to maintain patient care and hospital operations.
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center said these teams play a crucial role in maintaining staffing levels and ensuring continuity of care during hazardous conditions.
While many preparations are similar to those used during hurricanes or power outages, winter storms introduce unique risks. According to Dr. Kaziny, Texas Children’s Hospital has taken additional measures such as salting sidewalks to prevent slips and insulating exposed pipes to avoid freezing and damage.
Possible Disruptions to Non-Emergency Care
Although no major Houston hospitals had announced cancellations by Friday, officials acknowledged that changes may be necessary if travel conditions worsen. Patients are encouraged to check hospital websites and social media platforms for updates, as facilities typically notify patients directly if appointments are affected.
Memorial Hermann advised patients with appointments scheduled early next week to confirm availability before traveling. The hospital also recommended that patients refill prescriptions in advance in case pharmacies are forced to close during the storm.
Dr. Kaziny explained that deciding whether to cancel appointments is often a careful balancing act. Many patients wait weeks or months for appointments, making cancellations disruptive. If postponements are unavoidable, hospitals aim to reschedule visits as quickly as possible.
He added that hospitals try to provide timely notice while continuing to monitor weather developments, ensuring that services are only canceled when absolutely necessary.
