Sussex County still faces threats from storm
The Sussex County Emergency Operation Center reports that post-Tropical Cyclone Hermine could re-intensify to hurricane strength, and stall off Delmarva coast past Labor Day weekend.
According to their release, the first effects of what was once Tropical Storm Hermine have left parts of Sussex County a bit soggy, but otherwise no worse for wear, to start the Labor Day weekend.
However, the storm’s uncertain track and a possible shift back toward the Mid-Atlantic later this weekend still apparently threatens to cause serious problems, including major coastal flooding and significant beach erosion that could last days.
The National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service continue to warn of major coastal effects along much of the Eastern Seaboard. Tides over several cycles – particularly at times of high tide on Sunday night and again Monday morning – could reportedly run as much as 3 to 5 feet above normal along Sussex County’s beaches, as well as in the Delaware and Inland bays.
As of 2 PM on Saturday, the storm apparently was located off the North Carolina/Virginia coast, with winds at 70 mph, moving to the east-northeast.
Emergency officials say it is expected to stall, however, about 150 miles off the Delaware/New Jersey coast, where it could meander through at least Tuesday and re-intensify to hurricane strength.
Emergency officials report that with the continual counter-clockwise flow around the storm, an expected period of strengthening and little movement in position, northeasterly winds will push water and waves into the coast and back bays, scouring beaches, flooding low-lying areas and potentially cutting off access in some places.
Tropical storm-force winds and heavy rains are expected to remain mostly off-shore, but a slight shift in the track to the west could bring those effects inland.
A tropical storm warning remains in effect for Sussex County until further notice, meanwhile, Delaware Governor Jack Markell has issued a limited state of emergency for Sussex County, effective 5 PM Saturday, allowing the National Guard to pre-position equipment and personnel.
While no evacuations have been ordered and no shelters have been designated, the Sussex County Emergency Operations Center reminds those in vulnerable and low-lying areas to consider relocating, if necessary.
Areas that historically flood, including Long Neck, Broadkill Beach, and Primehook, could see moderate to severe flooding through at least Labor Day, but possibly longer if the storm remains near stationary through mid-week.
The Sussex County Emergency Operations Center says it continues to monitor the developing situation, and is working closely with Delaware emergency planners, the National Guard, and local fire companies to have personnel and equipment at the ready for any response.
For updates, stay tuned to local television and radio stations, as well as the Sussex County website. The public also should monitor the National Weather Service, and the National Hurricane Center for the latest forecasts.
