Forecast, emergency measures, impacts, and immediate aftermath of the historic nor’easter/blizzard in Delaware and the I‑95 corridor

In the wake of the historic nor’easter that recently swept through Delaware and the I‑95 corridor, authorities and communities responded swiftly to mitigate the storm's severe impacts and ensure public safety.

Pre‑Storm Forecasts, Warnings, and Emergency Measures

Leading up to the storm, weather agencies issued a series of warnings highlighting the potential severity. The National Weather Service issued blizzard and winter storm warnings, with coastal areas like Rehoboth Beach expecting between 9 to 17 inches of snow, and inland locations such as Hockessin and Claymont recording over 5 inches. Recognizing the danger, Delaware officials declared a State of Emergency and implemented Level 1 driving advisories statewide, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel.

In anticipation of the storm, local governments activated Snow Emergency Routes:

• Rehoboth Beach declared an emergency route beginning Sunday at 9 p.m.
• Lewes activated its snow emergency plan at 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Emergency agencies, including the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), provided snowstorm preparedness tips to help residents navigate the hazardous conditions. Additionally, the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) mobilized crews for 24/7 snow clearing and road treatment, focusing on critical routes such as Interstate 95, which faced major lane closures scheduled for Monday for bridge repairs, likely causing significant traffic delays.

Shelter systems were activated to support vulnerable populations:

• Wilmington’s shelter, in partnership with Friendship House, remained operational through Tuesday.
• Dover High School was designated as a warming shelter for residents affected by power outages and cold temperatures.

Storm Impacts and Immediate Aftermath

The storm brought unprecedented snowfall and strong winds, causing widespread disruptions:

• Snowfall totals reached 9 to 17 inches along the coast, with inland areas experiencing over 5 inches.
• Power outages affected thousands, with gusts exceeding 40 mph causing utility poles to topple and traffic signals to fail, notably in Smyrna where several traffic lights were knocked out, creating hazardous driving conditions.
• Transportation disruptions were extensive, with multiple closures on I-95 and other major highways. Towns such as Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, and Georgetown activated Snow Emergency Routes to facilitate snow removal and emergency access.
• Structural damages included a partial building collapse in Wilmington, caused by fierce winds and fallen trees, temporarily blocking streets and requiring emergency response.
• Environmental concerns arose from infrastructure failures:
  • Wilmington’s wastewater treatment plant sustained damage, leading to a discharge of approximately 30,000 gallons of wastewater into local waterways in Millsboro.
  • The spill raises concerns about water quality and local ecosystems, prompting ongoing environmental monitoring.
• Vulnerable populations faced urgent evacuations:
  • Over 150 residents at Dover’s Harmony at Kersey Valley nursing home were evacuated after a frozen burst pipe caused by the cold weather.

Public Health and Environmental Incidents

Amid the storm’s aftermath, health officials reported a measles exposure at Nemours Children’s Hospital, prompting contact tracing and advisories. Residents are urged to verify their vaccination status and monitor symptoms such as fever, cough, and rash.

Environmental agencies are addressing the spill in Millsboro, with the state announcing new PFAS community grants to assess and remediate hazardous substances, underscoring ongoing efforts to protect water quality and public health.

Community Support and Response

Community resilience has been evident through ongoing support efforts:

• Shelters and warming centers remain open:
  • Wilmington’s shelter supports unhoused residents through Tuesday.
  • Dover High School continues as a warming shelter.
• The Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA) is actively seeking foster families and donations to care for displaced animals affected by the storm damage.
• Emergency crews continue round-the-clock snow removal and road safety operations, prioritizing critical routes to restore normalcy.

Long‑Term Resilience and Policy Implications

The storm has exposed the vulnerabilities of Delaware’s aging infrastructure, emphasizing the urgent need for long-term investments:

• Upgrades to stormwater management systems
• Modernization of the power grid
• Enhanced climate resilience measures

Officials are also reviewing utility rate proposals in light of the storm’s damage, recognizing that infrastructure investments are vital for community safety and environmental protection.

Outlook and Continued Precautions

Forecasts suggest that rain and snow could persist into early March (March 1–5), complicating recovery efforts and prolonging disruptions. Residents are advised to limit travel, stay informed through official channels, and prepare emergency supplies—including food, water, batteries, and medications—to navigate ongoing weather challenges.

While significant progress has been made, the storm’s aftermath underscores the importance of proactive planning, infrastructure resilience, and community cooperation to withstand future severe winter weather events. The collective effort remains crucial to safeguarding public health, restoring infrastructure, and protecting Delaware’s environment.