Delaware issues State of Emergency

Delaware has issued a State of Emergency. On Friday, Governor Jack Markell issued a State of Emergency for Delaware, starting at 5:00 PM. Gov. Markell also issued a Level 1 Driving Warning, which will go into effect at 12:00 AM on Saturday.

The State of Emergency declaration allows the Governor to deploy the Delaware National Guard, DelDOT, first responders, and other agencies to open or close roadways and take other actions to protect public safety and property during the storm event.

“With authorities predicting snowfall amounts of 12-18 inches, it is important that all Delawareans take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones”, said Governor Markell.  “Conditions are predicted to rapidly deteriorate during the overnight hours and through tomorrow, which will create hazardous driving conditions and the threat of flooding in low-lying coastal areas.  That’s why I’m urging Delawareans to find a safe place to be this weekend and to arrive there this evening, and why I’m asked all non-essential personnel to avoid travelling our roadways after the snow begins so that DelDOT and emergency crews can clear the roads and keep our citizens safe.”

According to state law, a “Level 1 Driving Warning” means that any person operating a motor vehicle on Delaware roadways must exercise extra caution. All nonessential employees, public and private, are encouraged by State Officials not to operate a motor vehicle unless there is a significant safety, health or business reason to do so.

DelDOT spent much of Wednesday applying a brine solution to roadways, to aid in snow removal. Plow trucks are apparently being loaded with salt, and all normal snow removal preparations are underway.

A Code Purple is also activated in all three Delaware counties for those who are homeless, or in need of shelter from the storm.