Meyer declares state of emergency ahead of winter storm
Gov. Matt Meyer signed a state of emergency at 5 p.m., Jan. 23, which will take effect at 12:01 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 25, allowing for the mobilization of statewide resources needed to prepare for and respond to this storm, including the activation of the Delaware National Guard.
"Delawareans should always feel secure in their communities, especially during severe winter weather," said Meyer. "That's why I'm declaring a state of emergency in Delaware, starting Sunday morning. Please prepare while you can, avoid being on the roads once the storm begins, and listen to your state and local officials for the latest information and safety warnings. Together, let's make sure every Delawarean stays safe and warm this weekend."
The Delaware Emergency Management Agency has been activated at an Enhanced Watch level since the morning of Jan. 23, in advance of the upcoming winter snowstorm and is slated for full activation beginning Jan. 25. DEMA is joined by partners at the State Emergency Operations Center and virtually, such as the National Guard, the Delaware Department of Transportation, the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, the Delaware State Police, National Weather Service, local counties, and the governor’s office to coordinate response efforts. The Joint Information Center has also been activated.
Delawareans should also anticipate the issuance of state-mandated Driving Restrictions. Three levels of driving restrictions are designed to keep motorists and emergency responders safe by minimizing nonessential travel during periods of severe weather and perilous road conditions.
Level 1 Driving Warning – Avoid traveling on roadways, unless there is a significant safety, health or business reason to do so. All motorists are urged to drive with extreme caution.
Level 2 Driving Restriction – No person may operate a motor vehicle on Delaware roadways, except for persons designated as essential personnel. Travel on roadways restricted to essential personnel; emergency workers, first responders, healthcare and designated persons already approved through DEMA’s State of Emergency Driving Waiver Program.
Level 3 Driving Ban – Travel on roadways restricted to emergency workers, first responders, health care workers, utility workers, snow removal operators or private sector flood and fuel deliveries
DEMA urges the public to sign up for the Delaware Emergency Notification System at de.gov/dens for updates on hazardous conditions, and to prepare homes and vehicles ahead of the incoming storm. The recommendations are to stock up on household essentials including nonperishable food and water, prescription medications, first aid supplies, flashlights, batter- powered radios and more, and to check in with elderly neighbors and relatives to ensure all have a plan for safety. Automotive preparedness includes a full tank of gas, topped off fluids, working breaks and wipers, jumper cables, blankets and scrapers. Go to preparede.org for full lists of emergency items for the home and car. 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.
