Delaware begins the new year under a cold, gray sky, with stiff air biting exposed skin and car windows rimmed with frost. Pavement feels dry for now, but early chill raises concerns for slick spots before temperatures recover.
According to the National Weather Service, Wilmington started the morning near 28 degrees with mostly cloudy skies and light northwest winds. Clouds thin through the day, allowing some sunshine. Highs climb toward the upper 30s, though gusts near 20 mph keep it feeling brisk.
Across northern Delaware, drivers should remain cautious early on I-95, Route 202, and local bridges. Any lingering moisture can freeze quickly during the morning hours. Flash freezing remains a concern in shaded areas, especially before late morning warming. Plan extra time if heading out early.
Conditions shift gradually into Monday. Clouds increase, and highs reach near 40 degrees. While travel stays quiet, melting frost during the day may refreeze after dark as temperatures fall near 30. By Tuesday, a noticeable warmup arrives. Highs jump into the upper 40s, easing winter strain and improving road conditions.
Latest guidance shows a slight chance of rain Tuesday night into Wednesday. With temperatures staying above freezing, precipitation falls as rain rather than snow. Still, wet pavement combined with cooler nights could create isolated slick spots by midweek.
Meteorologists are watching larger-scale patterns. Heavy snow is expected to return to the Great Lakes region between January 17 and January 30. Farther south, including Delaware, above-average temperatures may dominate later this month, limiting major winter storms.
For now, winter weather keeps a firm hold early in 2026. Dress for the cold start, watch roads during the morning hours, and stay alert as conditions evolve. Feeling the freeze where you are? Share what you’re seeing.
Five-Day Outlook for Wilmington, DE
• Today: Mostly cloudy, high near 38
• Monday: Mostly cloudy, high near 40
• Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 47
• Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 56
• Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 52
