A major winter storm is set to blanket Delaware with significant snowfall on Monday, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a winter storm warning for much of the state. Snow is expected to start falling early, with predictions indicating some areas could see up to 12 inches of accumulation.
The NWS forecast indicates snowfall will begin around 4 AM for all of Kent and Sussex counties, with New Castle County joining by 6 AM. Reports have already noted accumulations of 4 inches by 7 AM, and the potential for even more as the storm progresses. The NWS highlighted the heaviest snowfall is expected to hit areas south of the major highways, particularly along the Delmarva Peninsula and parts of southern New Jersey.
According to the NWS, "A band of heavy snow should develop with snowfall rates reaching or exceeding 1 inch per hour across Delmarva and far South Jersey on Monday morning." These swift snowfall rates could pose challenges for commuters and travelers alike, leading to difficult road conditions.
Snowfall totals are projected to vary across the state: New Castle County may receive about 4 to 6 inches, whereas Kent and Sussex counties could see between 8 to 12 inches. The NWS anticipates snow to taper off by midnight for New Castle and the northern part of Kent County, with southern areas possibly experiencing snowfall until 2 AM Tuesday.
Once the snow subsides, frigid temperatures are expected to follow, with nighttime wind chills potentially dropping to as low as 5 degrees. The highs will remain below freezing early this week, affecting residents as they cope with both the accumulated snow and the impending cold snap.
Advisories surrounding school and office closures are also anticipated. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay updated on the status of local closures through their local news sources and school district announcements.
Being forewarned by the NWS, residents should prepare for possible hazardous driving conditions and take necessary precautions during the storm. "How many inches of snow are we getting today?" is certainly the pressing question, and residents are urged to check the latest snowfall totals and advisories to plan accordingly.
Preparations can help minimize risk; having emergency supplies, such as food, water, and blankets, can prove invaluable during severe winter weather. The coming days will require vigilance as the forecast for Delaware remains starkly winter-like.
Officials advise Delawareans to heed the warnings from local authorities as the state braces for what could be one of the more significant snow events of the winter season.