How much snow will we get?

On By Littum

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Here it comes – the wintry weather Delaware has been expecting for the past week hits Sunday night and continues through Monday night.

New Castle County is under a Winter Storm Warning from 01.00 Monday to 1 a.m. Tuesday, but Kent and Sussex counties have been upgraded and will be under a winter storm warning starting at 22.00 Sunday.

STAY updated: Delaware is hit by a severe winter storm. Here are closures, cancellations, delays

What is a winter storm warning?

According to the National Weather Service, a winter storm warning is issued when a significant combination of hazardous winter weather occurs or is imminent.

Significant and hazardous winter weather is defined as a combination of:

  • 5 inches or more of snow/sleet within a 12-hour period or 7 inches or more of snow/sleet within a 24-hour period
  • Enough ice accumulation to cause damage to trees or power lines
  • A life-threatening or harmful combination of snow and/or ice accumulation with wind

How much snow will Delaware receive?

According to the National Weather Service, there is the potential to see 1 inch per hour. Here are the snow forecasts for the state:

  • New Castle County: 4-8 inches
  • Kent County: 4-8 inches
  • Sussex County: 6-10 inches

Travel conditions in Delaware

There will be hazardous conditions throughout the day, including morning and evening commutes. The National Weather Service recommends keeping an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions can be obtained by calling 511.

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How to drive in the snow

Here are some tips from AAA:

  • Do not drive. If winter weather hits, drive only if necessary.
  • Reduce speed. Ice and snow reduce your traction with the road, so slow down.
  • Increase following distances. Instead of the traditional two seconds, increase it to five to six seconds. Remember, it takes longer to stop on snowy roads.
  • Do not use cruise control.
  • Keep half a tank of gas in your car.
  • Have an emergency kit with cold weather gear, blankets, extra food and water, a flashlight and a glass scraper.
  • Keep your phone charged in case of an emergency.

How to shovel snow

Once the snow hits and you have to shovel, there are some tips to stay healthy, according to Mayo Clinic.

  • Take care of your heart: If you have heart problems, check with your doctor before starting heavy exercise like shoveling snow.
  • Dress appropriately: Wear several layers of clothing and make sure to protect your hands and face from frostbite.
  • Drink plenty of water: Just like exercising, you need to stay hydrated.
  • Pace yourself and protect your body: It’s better to take your time, lift with your knees and watch for any pain or soreness you have while shoveling.
  • Have your phone: If you experience an emergency, call 911.

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How to keep your pets safe in winter

Pet owners in Delaware are expected to comply with a number of rules and regulations aimed at ensuring that a safe and healthy environment is maintained for pets, that pets are handled in an orderly manner when in public, and that pet abuse or cases of pet ill-treatment conduct punishable by law.

Dogs may not be confined outside and unattended during inclement weather, as issued by the National Weather Service, or other conditions that “pose a serious adverse risk to the health and safety of a dog,” the Delaware code states, with “outside and unattended” defined as in the elements for more than 15 minutes and out of sight and presence of the owner.

Pets are also susceptible to wind chill like people. Prolonged exposure to dangerous wind chills can lead to hypothermia.

How to dress for cold weather

The key to staying safe in cold weather is to wear layers of clothing.

According to the National Weather Service, wear several layers of loose-fitting, light, warm clothing. Remove layers to avoid sweating and cooling. Outerwear must be tightly woven, water-repellent and hooded.

Wear a hat because a lot of your body heat can be lost from your head. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold. Mittens that fit close to the wrist are better than gloves. Try to stay dry and out of the wind.

(This story was updated to add a photo gallery)