Sussex County braces for potential blizzard as major coastal storm targets Delmarva
GEORGETOWN, Del. – Officials in Sussex County are urging residents to prepare for what could be the most significant winter storm of the season, as a powerful coastal system threatens to bring blizzard conditions, heavy snow, strong winds and coastal flooding late Sunday into Monday.
The National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey, has issued a blizzard warning for all of Sussex County from 1 p.m. Sunday through 6 p.m. Monday. Forecasters say the storm could dump up to a foot of snow, with snowfall rates reaching 2 inches per hour overnight Sunday into early Monday.
The system is expected to begin as rain Sunday morning before changing to snow late Sunday night as colder air moves into the region. Heavy snow bands and wind gusts up to 40 mph could create near whiteout conditions, make travel treacherous or impossible at times, and lead to scattered power outages.
Moderate coastal flooding is also possible in low-lying areas.
“This storm’s effects look very significant, but Sussex County has already had some practice with winter weather this season, so the public should be in a preparedness and readiness frame of mind,” Sussex County Director of Public Safety Robert W. Murray Jr. said. “Preparation before an event, not at the height of it, is the key to protecting life and property.”
Emergency planners warned residents to expect difficult travel conditions Sunday night and throughout Monday. Those who must travel for essential or emergency purposes are encouraged to carry basic supplies in their vehicles, including blankets, sand or cat litter for traction, de-icer, flashlights and batteries, nonperishable food and water, and a full tank of gas.
Residents are also advised to stock up on household essentials such as extra food and water, first-aid supplies, flashlights, a battery-powered weather radio, prescription medications, baby supplies, and sufficient heating fuel. Property owners should secure or remove loose outdoor items ahead of the storm.
Sussex County Emergency Management officials said additional staff are being assigned to the county’s Emergency Operations Center and paramedic stations to respond to potential storm-related issues. Officials reminded the public to call 911 only in emergencies.
Road closure information will be available through the Delaware Department of Transportation, and utility outage maps can be found through local power providers. Officials encouraged residents to monitor local media and the National Weather Service for updated forecasts as the storm develops.
Updates will be issued as conditions warrant.
