Here it comes − the winter weather Delaware has been expecting for the past week will be hitting Sunday night and continue through Monday night.
The entire state is under a winter storm warning from 1 a.m. Monday to 1 a.m. Tuesday.
What is a Winter Storm Warning?
According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Warning is issued when a significant combination of hazardous winter weather is occurring or imminent.
Significant and hazardous winter weather is defined as a combination of:
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5 inches or more of snow/sleet within a 12-hour period or 7 inches or more of snow/sleet within a 24-hour period
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Enough ice accumulation to cause damage to trees or powerlines
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A life-threatening or damaging combination of snow and/or ice accumulation with wind
How much snow will Delaware receive?
Snow forecast
According to the National Weather Service, there’s the potential to see 1 inch per hour. Here are the snow projections for the state:
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New Castle County: 4-8 inches
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Sussex County: 6-10 inches
Travel conditions in Delaware
There will be hazardous conditions throughout the day, including the morning and evening commutes. The National Weather Service recommends keeping an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions can be obtained by calling 511.
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How to drive in the snow
winter driving
Here are some tips from AAA:
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Don’t drive. If winter weather is hitting, only drive if you have to.
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Reduce speed. Ice and snow decrease your traction with the road so slow down.
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Increase following distances. Instead of the traditional two seconds, increase it to five to six seconds. Remember, it takes longer to stop on snowy roads.
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Don’t use cruise control.
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Keep half a tank of gas in your car.
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Have an emergency kit with cold-weather gear, blankets, extra food and water, a flashlight and a glass scraper.
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Keep your phone charged in case of an emergency.
How to shovel snow
Snow shoveling tips
Once the snow hits and you have to shovel, there are some tips for staying healthy, according to the Mayo Clinic.
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Take care of your heart: If you have heart problems, check with your physician before you start heavy exercise like shoveling snow.
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Dress appropriately: Wear several layers of clothing and make sure to protect your hands and face from frostbite.
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Drink plenty of water: Just like working out, you need to stay hydrated.
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Pace yourself and protect your body: It’s better to take your time, lift with your knees and beware of any pain or soreness you have while shoveling.
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Have your phone: If you’re experiencing an emergency, call 911.
How to keep your pets safe in the winter
Ozzie the dog isn’t sure what to make of the snow on the ground Tuesday morning in Westgate Farms near Hockessin. The area got more than 2 inches of snow overnight. 1/16/2024
Pet owners in Delaware are expected to abide by a series of rules and regulations aimed at ensuring a safe and healthy environment is maintained for pets, pets are handled in an orderly way when in public, and pet abuse or instances of pet misbehavior are punishable by law.
Dogs are not allowed to be confined outside and unattended during inclement weather, as issued by the National Weather Service, or other conditions that “pose a serious adverse risk to the health and safety of a dog,” the Delaware Code states, with “outside and unattended” defined as in the elements for longer than 15 minutes and outside of visual range and presence of the owner.
Also, pets are susceptible to wind chills like humans. Prolonged exposure to dangerous wind chills could lead to hypothermia.
How to dress for cold weather
Dressing for cold weather
The key to staying safe in cold weather is wearing layers of clothing.
According to the National Weather Service, wear several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Remove layers to avoid sweating and chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water-repellent and hooded.
Wear a hat because much of your body heat can be lost from your head. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold. Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves. Try to stay dry and out of the wind.
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware winter storm warning: How much snow will we get?