Delaware – Cold pavement glistens under early daylight as thin clouds slide overhead, a familiar setup before winter trouble arrives. Light snow and sleet begin moving into northern Delaware today, setting the stage for slippery travel during a busy holiday weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from mid-afternoon through Saturday morning for northern Delaware and nearby parts of southeastern Pennsylvania and northeastern Maryland. Mixed precipitation is expected, with snow and sleet accumulations up to one inch and a light glaze of ice possible.
Across Wilmington, temperatures hover near freezing as precipitation develops later today. Snow may briefly coat roads before sleet and pockets of freezing rain mix in this evening. Even small ice amounts can make bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads slick in a hurry. Travel along I-95, Route 202, and local connectors may slow as conditions deteriorate.
Drivers heading out for weekend plans should plan extra time and reduce speed, especially after sunset. Slushy roads may refreeze overnight, creating black ice that is difficult to spot. Pedestrians should also watch for icy sidewalks and steps.
Saturday brings gradual improvement as precipitation tapers and clouds linger. Still, cold air holds on, allowing refreezing in shaded areas through the morning. By Sunday, temperatures rebound slightly with clouds increasing and rain chances returning later in the day.
Looking ahead to New Year’s week 2026, a more active pattern takes shape. Periods of rain and fluctuating temperatures could lead to additional slick travel concerns, especially during early morning and nighttime hours.
Residents are urged to stay weather-aware, check road conditions before traveling, and keep winter safety kits ready. Heading out today or this weekend? Let us know what conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Wilmington, DE
Today: Snow and sleet develop, highs near 32°F
Saturday: Chance of rain early, cloudy, highs near 39°F
Sunday: Mostly cloudy, chance of rain, highs near 42°F
Monday: Rain likely, breezy, highs near 56°F
Tuesday: Partly sunny, cooler, highs near 35°F
