Delaware Faces Winter Weather Advisory: Predicted Snowfall Details
Delaware is bracing for significant winter weather as a winter weather advisory has been issued. Forecasts predict snowfall totaling between 1 to 5 inches across the state, with higher accumulations anticipated in New Castle County. The snow is set to commence Saturday night, December 13, and continue into Sunday morning, December 14.
Details of the Winter Weather Advisory
The National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey, has announced that all of Delaware will be under a winter weather advisory this weekend. The Delaware Bay is also facing a gale warning, with potential impacts extending to surrounding areas, such as Philadelphia, which is under a winter storm warning.
Snowfall Timing and Accumulations
Snow is forecasted to start around 11 p.m. on December 13 in Wilmington, with various locations experiencing snow at different times:
- Central New Castle County: Midnight
- Southern New Castle County: 1 a.m.
- Northern Kent County: 2 a.m.
- Dover: 3 a.m.
- Southern Kent and Northern Sussex County: 4 a.m.
- Most of Sussex County: 5 a.m.
- Rehoboth Beach: 7 a.m.
Snowfall intensity may increase during the early hours of December 14. New Castle County is expected to receive between 4 to 6 inches, while Kent County may see 1 to 2 inches. Sussex County should prepare for at least 1 inch of snow.
Projected Snowfall by Location
| County | Location | Expected Snowfall |
|---|---|---|
| New Castle County | Middletown | 3 to 6 inches |
| New Castle County | Wilmington | 3 to 6 inches |
| Kent County | Dover | 2 to 4 inches |
| Sussex County | Georgetown | 1 to 3 inches |
Cold Temperatures and Windchills
Following the snowfall, Delaware will experience bitterly cold temperatures and low wind chills through early next week. Air temperatures on December 16 will remain below freezing with significant windchills:
- Wilmington: Feels like 6°F
- Dover: Feels like 4°F
- Rehoboth Beach: Feels like 5°F
Gusty winds, ranging from 25 to 40 mph, are likely to lead to further reductions in windchill values. Residents should prepare for icy roads and potentially hazardous driving conditions.
Safety Precautions during Winter Weather
The National Weather Service advises caution as residents deal with the storm. Key safety tips include:
- Drive slowly, maintaining greater distances from other vehicles.
- Avoid using cruise control in slippery conditions.
- Ensure your vehicle has an emergency kit stocked with essentials.
- Stay warm and dress appropriately when shoveling snow.
As winter conditions set in, Delawareans are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and heed safety recommendations. Stay safe and warm this winter in Delaware!
