Wilmington, Delaware – Slick highways and strong wind gusts could create travel hazards across Delaware beginning Thursday, Feb. 26, as a wetter late-winter pattern increases the risk for freezing rain and coastal wind impacts through Monday, March 2.
According to NOAA’s 6- to 10-day outlook issued Friday, above-normal precipitation is favored across the Mid-Atlantic during the Thursday-to-Monday stretch. With temperatures hovering near seasonal averages, brief drops toward 32 degrees could allow freezing rain to develop, especially during overnight hours and early morning commutes.
Statewide impacts may focus along I-95 through Wilmington and Newark, where bridges over the Christina River and elevated ramps tend to freeze first. In Dover, stretches of Route 1 and Route 13 could turn slick if light ice accumulates before transitioning back to rain. Sussex County, including Rehoboth Beach and Lewes, may see mainly rain, but inland areas could experience short periods of icing if colder air lingers.
Wind risk increases late in the period, particularly Sunday into Monday. Gusts between 40 and 45 mph are possible along the Delaware Bay and Atlantic coastline. Strong winds combined with saturated soil could down tree limbs and lead to scattered power outages.
Residents should secure outdoor items, charge electronic devices and allow extra time for travel during peak icing windows. The unsettled pattern continues through March 2, and additional advisories may be issued across the First State.
