Delaware to get snow, ice, sleet; Governor declares state of emergency

DOVER — The National Weather Service has reduced projections for snow across Delaware, but warns this winter storm could create treacherous ice conditions.

Snow, rain, sleet will fall. Temperatures after the snow fall will plummet for a week.

Winter Storm Fern moves into the area Saturday night and continues into Sunday.

In Central Delaware, the National Weather Service lowered the total to 6-8 inches.

In Southeastern Sussex County near the coast, they anticipate 4-6 inches.

With Winter Storm Fern bearing down on Delaware, the state of Delaware  is under a winter storm warning and a state of emergency.

Delaware Gov. Matthew Meyer signed the state of emergency order Friday evening. It takes effect at 12:01 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 25.

In a news release, the governor's office said Delawareans should anticipate driving restrictions during the storm and clean-up.

The move allows "mobilization of statewide resources" and activation of the Delaware National Guard.

The National Weather Service upgraded Delaware’s winter storm watch to a warning Friday afternoon .

DOVER MOBILIZING

Heading into the weekend, city of Dover spokesperson Kay Sass said preliminary treatment of road areas had begun. Crews working 12-hour shifts and two contractors will start operations at 7 p.m. Jan. 24.

“The city’s priority during snow and ice events is to keep emergency routes open to ensure continued access to the hospital and allow (emergency medical services), police and fire services to respond with as little delay as possible,” she added.

“Crews will then address critical high-priority routes, including access to essential city facilities needed to keep services operational.” Residential streets will be plowed last.

Ms. Sass noted that extreme cold could exacerbate poor road conditions. “The city does not salt every roadway, and with wind chills dropping below 0, ice will remain even after plowing,” she said.

She urged residents “to use caution, remain patient and be mindful of crews working in difficult conditions.”

Decisions on next week’s meeting changes, closures and trash and recycling delays will be made Jan. 25 around noon, Ms. Sass continued.

SMYRNA MESSAGE TO RESIDENTS

In Smyrna, town officials asked residents to:

• Avoid travel, if possible.
• Not park on roads, especially in posted “No Parking” zones.
• Not push snow onto streets.
• Keep snow clear of home vents.
• Make arrangements to stay in a location with reliable power if you depend on electricity for medical needs, in the event of outages.
• Check on neighbors.

A news release from the town added, “Public Works crews will be working throughout the storm to keep main roads and emergency routes open. Please be patient during snow removal efforts as we expect poor road conditions during the storm and a significant amount of time needed for post storm clean up.”

Smyrna staff will share further information at smyrna.delaware.gov and its Facebook and Instagram pages.

MILFORD PLANS

In Milford, officials reported Jan. 23 that they were actively monitoring forecasts and had preparations in place. The municipality’s Public Works, Electric and Parks & Recreation departments will clear snow from roads Jan. 24-26.

“We have 200 tons of salt, 80 tons of sand and will have nine trucks out,” said Lauren Swain, the city’s economic development and community engagement administrator. “Currently scheduled, we have two 12-hour shifts — Saturday, 8 p.m. to 8 a.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. — and cycling as needed.”

Residents were advised to be mindful of conditions on streets and to be aware of plow drivers. If more than 3 inches of snow falls, citizens must remove their vehicles from city streets; parking lots are available downtown for those needing to temporarily relocate their cars.

Milford staff also shared that snow and ice must be removed from sidewalks within 24 hours of the snowfall’s end. To reduce the amount of powder that’s piled up in their driveways from plows, residents should shovel snow from along the edge of the street leading up to their homes.

Parking also will not be permitted along Delaware Department of Transportation snow routes after the first hour of snowfall, officials added. These areas include Northeast and Northwest Front streets, Southeast Front Street and Lakeview Avenue, and North and South Walnut streets.

In preparation for possible power outages, individuals should test generators, charge electronic devices and identify water shutoff valves. Those using electrically powered medical devices should have backup plans.

HARRINGTON ALERTS

In Harrington, leaders also reminded residents that they may not park on city streets during snow events, as keeping thoroughfares clear lets Public Works Department crews plow and treat them more safely and efficiently.

“Please be patient with our Public Works team as they work as quickly as possible to clear roadways,” a Facebook post reads. “Crews will be out as conditions allow and appreciate the community’s cooperation and understanding. Once snowfall has ended, residents are required to remove snow and ice from sidewalks within 24 hours to help keep walkways safe for everyone.”

City manager Norman Barlow said Harrington has plenty of salt available for roads, as well as six trucks with plows and a backhoe for clearing city-owned parking lots. The municipality does not have any contractors on standby but will rely on the six people in its Public Works Department to remove snow, he continued.

“We would advise the local public to stay home (and) only go out if you need to,” he said. “If you must go out, please give yourself enough time and be safe.”