Wilmington, Delaware – A developing arctic cold front is expected to drive a colder and more unsettled weather pattern across Delaware late January into early February, with increasing chances for snow or mixed precipitation as the month comes to a close.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, the Jan. 24–Feb. 6 period favors below-normal temperatures across the Mid-Atlantic, with precipitation probabilities increasing closer to the coastal storm track. That setup places Delaware in a zone where even modest systems could bring winter travel impacts.
Northern Delaware, including Wilmington and Newark, could see periods of snow or a snow-and-rain mix as cold air presses south and weak systems move along the boundary. Slick conditions are possible along I-95, Route 1, and Route 202 during overnight and early morning hours. Central Delaware, including Dover, may see similar impacts depending on storm timing and temperatures.
Southern Delaware, including Sussex County and coastal communities near Rehoboth Beach, could also see winter precipitation, though precipitation type may fluctuate closer to the coast. Gusty winds at times may add to cold exposure concerns statewide.
The primary impacts will include icy roads, increased heating demand, and the risk of frozen pipes during prolonged cold spells. Residents are encouraged to prepare for colder conditions and monitor updates closely as storm chances may increase toward the end of January.
Below-normal temperatures are expected to persist into early February, with additional advisories or alerts possible as the pattern becomes clearer.
