Steady snowfall in the First State will last until evening, followed by extremely low temperatures overnight.
The Delaware Environmental Observing System reports the highest amount of snowfall in the state so far is at Greenville with 3.8 inches. Meanwhile, Smryna has only half an inch in accumulation. There is currently no reported accumulation in Sussex County.
Although relatively few power outages have been reported, officials from the Delaware Emergency Management Agency are concerned that wet snow will result in downed power lines.
James Bunker, meteorologist at the National Weather Service station in Mount Holly, New Jersey, says the weather should clear up by evening.
“We’re expecting the snow to taper off this evening between 8 and 9 o’clock this evening," said Bunker. "Folks really need to be careful on the roads this afternoon.”
However, those upstate will likely see snow tapering off earlier. New Castle and Kent Counties will receive up to 8 inches of snow, while Sussex will receive up to 6 inches of snow. Bunker also added that Delawareans should brace themselves for chilly temperatures tonight.
“Down in Sussex [County],[we’re] looking at single digits up to right around 10 degrees,” said Bunker. “In New Castle and Kent, there will also be single digits.”
However, temperatures should warm back up over the weekend, reaching the mid 30s and 40s by early next week.
All three counties have made Code Purple declarations. Houses of worships and community centers will be open for those seeking shelter during the storm. For more information on Code Purple locations, call 211.
