Delaware begins the morning under calm skies, but winter weather signals are already stacking up.
The air feels cool and quiet now. That calm masks a fast-moving pattern that turns wetter and riskier by the weekend.
Temperatures rise steadily through the day, reaching the low 50s. Sunshine helps dry pavement and improves travel early. For now, conditions cooperate. Clouds increase later, hinting at the next system approaching from the west.
Rain chances increase Friday, especially later in the day. Roads may turn slick quickly as showers develop during busy travel hours. Commuters along I-95, Route 202, and local connectors should expect slower movement and reduced visibility.
Rain becomes more widespread Friday night and continues through Saturday. Highs climb near 61 degrees, unusually mild for January 2026. The warmth keeps precipitation liquid, but winter hazards remain in play. Standing water, spray, and fog raise crash risks, especially near intersections and on ramps.
Saturday night marks another shift. Cooler air begins pushing south while rain lingers. Conditions stay damp, and temperatures trend downward. By Sunday, showers taper, but clouds linger through much of the day. Highs settle near the low 50s.
Sunday night brings the most important concern. Skies begin to clear, winds ease, and temperatures drop toward 29 degrees. Any leftover moisture may refreeze. Black ice becomes possible on bridges, untreated roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. Flash freezing can develop quickly after sunset.
Looking ahead to next week, winter regains control. Sunshine returns Monday with highs near 41 degrees. Mornings feel brisk, though daylight continues to stretch longer by late January in Wilmington.
Take action: enjoy the mild stretch, plan for wet roads Friday and Saturday, and slow down late Sunday when freezing risks return.
Five-Day Outlook (Wilmington, DE)
- Today: Sunny, high near 51°F
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, rain developing late, high near 56°F
- Saturday: Rain likely, warm, high near 61°F
- Sunday: Chance of rain early, cooler, high near 52°F
- Monday: Sunny and colder, high near 41°F
