WINTER STORM: Delaware, Maryland Officials Urging Preparedness Ahead of Potentially Major Winter Storm

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Storm Forecast–Update 01/22/26: Although the forecast is subject to change, AccuWeather Meteorologist Joe Lundberg tells the Talk of Delmarva’s Mike Bradley show– how much snow is expected at this point…

 

 

 

Sussex County Storm Prep Info:

The first major storm of winter 2026 could bring travel to a crawl and widespread power outages across Sussex County and the mid-Atlantic region later this weekend, with forecasters predicting several inches of snow, along with ice and rain, before temperatures plummet into the teens and single digits to end January. For a list of road closures, visit the Delaware Department of Transportation website at www.deldot.gov. To view a map of power outages in Sussex County, visit Delmarva Power’s website at www.delmarva.com and the Delaware Electric Cooperative’s website at www.delaware.coop. Sussex County Emergency Management continues to monitor this situation and is working closely with other local and state governmental agencies. Additional staff are being called in to the County’s Emergency Operations Center and paramedic stations to be on standby and respond to issues that may arise during and after the event. The County EOC will be on limited activation beginning this weekend. For updates, go to the Sussex County website at www.sussexcountyde.gov. The public also should monitor the National Weather Service, at www.weather.gov/phi for the latest forecasts. Meantime Sussex County reminds the public to only call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Members of the public who have questions regarding this information should contact Sussex County Emergency Management at (302) 856-7360.

Additional Information from Sussex County Government

The first major storm of winter 2026 could bring travel to a crawl and widespread power outages across Sussex County and the mid-Atlantic region later this weekend, with forecasters predicting as much a foot of snow, along with ice and rain, before temperatures plummet into the teens and single digits to end January.

 

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for all of Sussex County, from 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, through 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26. Forecasters predict as much as 12 inches of snow, though final tallies could vary, depending on the ultimate track of the still-developing storm and how much warm air is drawn in along the coast, potentially causing a change to a wintry mix and rain on Sunday. The storm, however, likely would end as snow, and be followed by a rush of arctic air that will keep temperatures well below freezing – and any precipitation on the group frozen – for part of next week. Winds and coastal flooding should be minimal.

 

Property owners should prepare now by removing or securing loose objects, and residents should stock up on provisions in the event travel is not possible and power is interrupted in the coming days.

 

“Whatever form the precipitation falls as really doesn’t change the fact that this storm will cause disruption, here in Sussex County and across the state and region,” Sussex County Emergency Manager/Deputy Director of Public Safety Timothy R. Cooper said. “Use this time now, ahead of the storm, to take stock and be ready.”

 

Emergency planners urge the public to prepare now for the strong possibility of difficult travel, power outages, downed trees as a result of heavy snow and icing, as well as the extreme cold.

 

Travel on Sunday and Monday could be very difficult, if not impossible, at times. Those traveling for essential or emergency purposes, however, should be prepared with basic supplies on hand, including an ice scraper, blankets, sand or cat litter, de-icer, flashlight and batteries, mobile telephone, high-calorie non-perishable food and water, and a full tank of gas.

 

Meantime, residents and property owners should prepare themselves with basic household supplies, including extra food and water, first-aid supplies, flashlights and batteries, a battery-powered weather radio, extra prescription medicines, baby items, an emergency heat source and sufficient heating fuel.

 

Sussex County Emergency Management continues to monitor this situation and is working closely with other local and state governmental agencies. Additional staff are being called in to the County’s Emergency Operations Center and paramedic stations to be on standby and respond to issues that may arise during and after the event. The County EOC will be on limited activation beginning this weekend.

 

For a list of road closures, visit the Delaware Department of Transportation website at www.deldot.gov. To view a map of power outages in Sussex County, visit Delmarva Power’s website at www.delmarva.com and the Delaware Electric Cooperative’s website at www.delaware.coop.

 

Stay tuned to local media, as well as the Sussex County website at www.sussexcountyde.gov. The public also should monitor the National Weather Service, at www.weather.gov/phi for the latest forecasts.  Meantime, Sussex County offers a variety of social media outlets to relay the latest storm information. Please follow along on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SussexCountyDE and www.facebook.com/SussexCountyEmergencyManagement, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/sussexde_govt and  www.x.com/SussexCtyDE_EM. Updates will be issued as needed.

 

Sussex County reminds the public to only call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Members of the public who have questions regarding this information should contact Sussex County Emergency Management at (302) 856-7360.

Earlier Post–State Officials Urging Preparedness

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency is monitoring a potentially impactful winter storm expected later this week and into the weekend. Forecasts call for freezing temperatures, dangerous wind chills, and the possibility of snow from Saturday evening through Sunday, which could lead to hazardous travel and disruptions. DEMA urges residents to prepare now by stocking emergency supplies, limiting nonessential travel, winterizing vehicles and homes, and dressing appropriately for extreme cold. Officials say updates will be provided as the forecast develops and encourage residents to stay informed through official weather and transportation alerts. Meanwhile, in Maryland, Governor Wes Moore has declared a State of Preparedness–directing emergency management and other state agencies to coordinate ahead of the storm. Residents are urged to avoid travel if possible, monitor local forecasts, and complete emergency preparations as state and local agencies work to ensure readiness and public safety.

 

Additional Information from DEMA and the Office of Governor Wes Moore:

Delaware

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is monitoring a potentially impactful winter storm developing this week and into the weekend.  The emerging forecast from the National Weather Service includes freezing temperatures from the high teens to the 20s into the weekend with the increasing possibility of snow Saturday evening through Sunday night, and possibly into Monday morning.  Cold Weather Advisories have been issued with wind chill values estimated to drop to the single digits.  There is an increasing probability of disruptions to daily life, including hazardous driving conditions.

 

DEMA recommends that residents ensure they have the basics of emergency items in the home — cooking staples of shelf-stable food, water, supplies of necessary medications, along with flashlights, first aid kits, child and pet product needs and more.   Visit PrepareDE.org for full lists of emergency items for the home and car.  

 

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 follow DelDOT and local news reports for information on road closures or other potential disruptions to travel.  Drivers are reminded to practice automotive safety by maintaining gas and fluid levels, ensuring working breaks and wipers, and by outfitting your vehicle emergency kit with items like flashlights, flares, blankets, chargers, jumper cables, food and water.

 

As prolonged exposure to the cold can result in hypothermia, residents are reminded to dress accordingly outdoors, in layers, with hats, gloves and scarves to protect otherwise exposed areas of the body from frostbite. 

 

“DEMA will continue to monitor the developing weather situation and will update residents as more information becomes available,” offered DEMA Director, A.J. Schall.  “ Now is the time to stock up your emergency supplies, ensure you are signed up for emergency alerts, check in on your elderly relatives and neighbors, and make sure everybody has a plan to stay safe.”

 

DEMA offers the following safety tips and resources to prepare in advance of any storm.

 

Winter Preparedness:

1. Build a basic emergency kitand vehicle emergency kit. Learn how at PrepareDE.org.
2. Dress in layers appropriate for the conditions and learn the signs of hypothermiaand frostbite.
3. 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
4. Bring pets or animals in during winter storms and freezing temperatures and stock pet supplies.
5. Preparedness takes a team: “buddy up” to help those with access and functional needs.

 

Winter Driving Safety Tips:

1. Stay informed about current weather, winter storm forecasts, travel advisories, and warnings.
2. Register your mobile numbers with the Delaware Emergency Notification System(DENS) at de.gov/densfor updates on hazardous conditions in Delaware.
3. 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.
4. In inclement weather, stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, then stay inside.
5. For disabled vehicles on Delaware roads, call 302-659-4600or 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:

1. Check your tires and windshield wipers and replace if needed.
2. Make sure that windshields are completely clear of snow and clear snow from the tops of vehicles and the beds of pickup trucks.
3. Once on the road, take it slowly. Travel at or below the posted speed limit.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Apply brakes carefully, especially on hills and exit/entrance ramps. Allow for more stopping distance.
7. Bridges and overpasses freeze faster than other road surfaces. There might be ice you cannot see. Reduce your speed.
8. 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.
9. Never pass a snowplow.
10. Always wear your seatbelt.

 

The National Weather Service-Mount Holly (NWS) 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

 

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is the lead state agency for coordination of comprehensive emergency preparedness, training, response, recovery, and mitigation services to save lives, protect Delaware’s economic base and reduce the impact of emergencies. DEMA is a division within the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS) and authorized by Delaware Code.

Social Media: Delaware Emergency Management Agency on Facebook, X and Instagram

 

Maryland:

Governor Wes Moore today declared a State of Preparedness ahead of a potentially hazardous winter weather system that is expected to bring accumulating snow and potential ice to areas of Maryland. The storm will likely affect roads and transportation centers and could cause significant snow accumulation in some parts of the state. Marylanders are cautioned to avoid travel if possible, to follow local forecasts, and to stay prepared for winter storm hazards. 

“By declaring a State of Preparedness in Maryland, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of State government ahead of potential impacts related to the incoming weather system,” said Gov. Moore. “The safety and security of our residents is our top priority. Please remain vigilant, listen to authorities, use common sense, and complete emergency preparations as soon as possible.”

A State of Preparedness enhances the State’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to potential hazards and threats before escalating response, providing an easier path for information sharing and coordination. Multiple State agencies and departments including emergency management, transportation, law enforcement, and public health are coordinating to prepare for the storm.

According to the National Weather Service, the weather system is expected to significantly impact the region beginning Saturday afternoon to evening, bringing multiple threats that require heightened awareness and preparedness from Marylanders and those visiting our State. Marylanders can expect the following during this weather event:

Snow and Ice Threat:

• Beginning Saturday afternoon-evening, with peak impacts Saturday night into Sunday morning.
• Accumulating snow and potential freezing rain and ice will impact the state on Saturday afternoon to evening into Sunday night.
• Potential impacts include significant travel delays, closures, and threats to life and property. 
• Plan ahead to minimize impact on you and your family.

“MDEM is monitoring this storm and is coordinating closely with state agencies and local emergency management officials,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russ Strickland. “Stay tuned to local news stations for the latest updates, sign up for local emergency notifications, and heed any instructions local authorities provide.”

The Maryland National Guard is proactively preparing personnel and specialized vehicles across the state to ensure rapid response capabilities for communities that may require assistance. Personnel and vehicles will be prepositioned in Western Maryland, Central Maryland, and on the Eastern Shore. 

Detailed snow and ice totals will be updated regularly on the National Weather Service website.

Preparedness Recommendations:

• Stay informed by regularly checking weather updates from official sources and be sure to have a way to access local forecasts and warnings.
• Have an emergency kit ready and a family emergency plan in place.
• Heed all warnings and stay indoors during severe weather.
• Check with local authorities for the latest information about public evacuation shelters.
• Keep devices charged in case of power outages.
• Know who to contact in the case of a power outage. Emergency phone numbers for utility companies can be found at mdem.maryland.gov.
• Follow Maryland Department of Emergency Management and regional National Weather Service social media accounts for localized forecasts.
• Only use generators outdoors and never in a garage. The generator should be at least 20 feet away from the home and away from windows, doors, and vents.

For the latest information, please visit weather.gov/lwx. To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland, text MdReady to 211-631 or text MdListo for Spanish.

For more information, residents may visit the Maryland Department of Emergency Management’s website at mdem.maryland.gov, follow the department’s X (Twitter) feed at @MDMEMA, or follow the department’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA. 

Marylanders may also monitor power outages through the MdReady installable app and website: MdReady.maryland.gov

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