Delaware Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Winter Storm Fern
Delaware Governor Matthew Meyer declared a State of Emergency for the state, effective 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in anticipation of Winter Storm Fern. Concurrently, a Level 1 Driving Warning has been issued statewide, advising motorists to avoid nonessential travel due to expected hazardous conditions. The declaration permits the mobilization of state resources, including the Delaware National Guard, and precedes a forecast of 8-12 inches of snow, a wintry mix, and high winds across the region.
A Level 1 Driving Warning, issued simultaneously, advises all motorists to exercise extreme caution and to avoid operating a motor vehicle on state roadways unless travel is for a significant safety, health, or business reason.
Emergency Declaration and Driving Restrictions
Governor Matthew Meyer's declaration of a State of Emergency became effective at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, January 25, 2026. This measure enables the mobilization of statewide resources, including the Delaware National Guard, to prepare for and respond to Winter Storm Fern.
The Level 1 Driving Warning will remain in effect until further notice and may be escalated if road conditions deteriorate. The purpose of this restriction is to ensure the safety of emergency responders and essential motorists by limiting nonessential travel during severe weather.
Delaware's driving restrictions operate on three levels:
- Level 1 Driving Warning: Advises motorists to avoid non-essential travel and use extreme caution.
- Level 2 Driving Restriction: Prohibits motor vehicle operation for all persons except "essential personnel," including emergency workers, first responders, healthcare staff, and individuals approved through DEMA’s State of Emergency Driving Waiver Program.
- Level 3 Driving Ban: Restricts roadway travel to emergency workers, first responders, healthcare workers, utility workers, snow removal operators, and private sector flood and fuel deliveries.
Winter Storm Outlook
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the entire forecast area, effective from 7 p.m. Saturday until 1 p.m. Monday. Forecasts indicate 8-12 inches of snow across the state, with Kent and New Castle Counties expected to receive the highest amounts. Significant snowfall is predicted from late Saturday evening through Sunday and into Monday.
The storm is expected to bring a wintry mix of snow, sleet, and rain, along with strong wind gusts and rapidly dropping temperatures. These conditions may lead to travel disruptions, power outages, downed trees, infrastructure damage, and dangerous road conditions due to heavy snow and ice from freezing temperatures.
Agency Operations and Resource Mobilization
The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) has activated its State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate with partners, including the Delaware National Guard, the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), and the Delaware State Police. National Guard assets have been deployed statewide, and DelDOT has initiated snow removal operations. DEMA serves as the lead state agency for emergency preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation.
Public Safety and Preparedness Advisories
Officials have advised residents to complete preparations in advance and to remain safely at home until conditions improve.
Home Preparedness:- Stock non-perishable food, water, prescription medications, first aid supplies, flashlights, and battery-powered radios.
- Check on elderly neighbors and relatives to ensure their safety plans are in place.
- Ensure a full tank of gas, topped-off fluids, working brakes and wipers.
- Have jumper cables, blankets, and ice scrapers in vehicles.
- Residents requiring assistance during the storm can contact 211 for help with shelter, food, and medical transportation.
- Code Purple Shelters are operating 24 hours statewide, providing emergency housing, meals, and resources for unhoused individuals during severe winter weather.
- New Castle County: 302-652-8033
- Kent County: 1-800-733-6816
- Sussex County: 302-519-0024
- Alternatively, call 211 for general assistance.
- Stay informed about weather forecasts and advisories.
- Avoid roads if possible during inclement weather. If trapped in a car, remain inside.
- For disabled vehicles, contact the DelDOT Transportation Management Center (TMC) at 302-659-4600 or 800-324-8379.
- Check tires and windshield wipers; clear all snow from vehicles before driving.
- Drive slowly, at or below the posted speed limit, and maintain ample space between vehicles.
- Use low-beam headlights for better visibility; Delaware law requires headlights in poor visibility.
- Apply brakes carefully, especially on hills and ramps; allow for increased stopping distance.
- Exercise extra caution on bridges and overpasses, as they freeze faster than other road surfaces.
- Pay close attention at intersections and watch for other vehicles.
- Never pass a snowplow and always wear a seatbelt.
Information Channels
Residents are encouraged to utilize the following resources for updates:
- Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS): Sign up at de.gov/dens for hazardous condition updates.
- DelDOT Traffic Advisory Radio: WTMC (1380AM and 98.5 FM) and the DelDOT app provide real-time updates on roadway and transit conditions.
- National Weather Service (NWS): Monitor the NWS Winter Weather Dashboard for short-term forecasts and NWS-Mount Holly for official weather conditions and forecasts.
- FEMA Mobile App: Download the app and set a location to receive NWS alerts.
- Preparedness Resources: Visit PrepareDE.org for comprehensive lists of emergency items for homes and cars, and ArriveAliveDE.com for additional guidance.