DEMA: Heavy snow, strong winds, coastal flooding expected
A coastal flood warning has been issued for Kent, Inland Sussex and Delaware beaches from 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22 to 5 a.m. Monday, Feb. 23, as the Delaware Emergency Management Agency monitors a winter storm. Widespread heavy snowfall is forecast with blizzard conditions along Delaware’s coast. Blowing and drifting snow is likely for many areas. Significant disruptions to travel and infrastructure are possible.
DEMA’s State Emergency Operations Center will activate Sunday evening at 5 p.m. to coordinate with state and local partners on resource and messaging needs.
Residents are urged to avoid nonessential driving when possible and to drive more slowly, leaving a larger following distance when travel is unavoidable. Motorists are encouraged to download the DelDOT app and follow local news reports for information on road closures or other potential disruptions to travel.
Safety tips, resources to prepare
• Build a basic emergency kitand vehicle emergency kit. Learn how at PrepareDE.org.
• Dress in layers appropriate for the conditions and learn the signs of hypothermiaand frostbite
• Prepare your home and car for extreme cold temperatures, such as weatherproofing your house and winterizing your vehicle by checking or replacing lights, tires, wiper blades, and other items. https://preparede.org/emergency-types/natural-hazards/#winter-storms
• Bring pets or animals in during winter storms and freezing temperatures and stock pet supplies.
• Preparedness takes a team: “Buddy up” to help those with access and functional needs.
Winter driving safety tips
• Stay informed about current weather, winter storm forecasts, travel advisories, and warnings.
• Register your mobile numbers with the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS) at de.gov/densfor updates on hazardous conditions in Delaware.
• Follow DelDOT’s traffic advisory radio stations, WTMC, for streaming updates from WTMC Radio 1380AM and 98.5 FM. Listen to WTMC through the DelDOT app. which provides real-time updates on roadway and transit conditions.
• In inclement weather, stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, then stay inside.
• For disabled vehicles on Delaware roads, call302-659-4600or 800-324-8379to reach the Delaware Department of Transportation (DELDOT) Transportation Management Center (TMC). For general information, call 302-760-2080 or 800-652-5600.
Automotive safety
• Check your tires and windshield wipers and replace if needed.
• Make sure that windshields are completely clear of snow and clear snow from the tops of vehicles and the beds of pickup trucks.
• Once on the road, take it slowly. Travel at or below the posted speed limit.
• Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. If you’re too close, there will not be enough time to react if that person loses control of their vehicle.
• Turn on your headlights so other drivers can see you. Delaware law requires headlights in conditions of poor visibility. Low beams provide better visibility than high beams.
• Apply brakes carefully, especially on hills and exit/entrance ramps. Allow for more stopping distance.
• Bridges and overpasses freeze faster than other road surfaces. There might be ice you cannot see. Reduce your speed.
• Pay extra attention when approaching intersections. Watch for cars that don’t have the right of way. Take precautions such as allowing for extra reaction time in case other drivers go through a stop sign or traffic light.
• Never pass a snowplow.
• Always wear your seatbelt.
The National Weather Service-Mount Holly issues the latest weather conditions and forecasts for Delaware as well as official winter storm watches, warnings, and advisories. NWS also has a Winter Weather Dashboard that shows the short-term forecast for winter weather conditions in the three-state region that includes Delaware. Download the FEMA Mobile App and set a location to receive NWS alerts for that area. Learn more: ArriveAliveDE.com | PrepareDE.org
Follow DEMA on social media at Facebook, X and Instagram.
