"Southern Regional, like

many other area hospitals, will continue to perform surgeries in trauma

or emergency type situations," according to a written statement issued

Friday.

"To ensure the safety

of our patients, Southern Regional Health System is following the recommendation

of the American Red Cross to visually examine units of blood prior to

use," said Rick Smith, director of public relations and marketing

at Southern Regional.

The Red Cross is working to

provide blood units to Southern Regional from other areas outside the

affected region, according to reports.

"It may take several days

for our hospital blood supply to be fully restocked," said Smith.

"In the meantime, we will review all pending surgeries and reschedule

all those deemed as non-emergent."