WILMINGTON, Del. — As heavy snow continues to blanket Delaware from Wilmington’s Riverfront to neighborhoods surrounding Legislative Hall in Dover, officials are urging residents to take critical precautions before turning in for the night.
Forecasters warn that snowfall totals could rise significantly overnight, increasing pressure on rooftops, blocking ventilation systems and heightening the risk of isolated power outages. Major routes including Interstate 95 and Route 1 have seen deteriorating conditions, while residential streets across New Castle and Kent counties are rapidly accumulating snow.
Emergency management officials say the most overlooked risks often emerge after dark, when temperatures drop and homes remain sealed against the cold.
Authorities are advising residents to conduct a brief safety check before going to sleep.
Key safety steps Delaware residents should complete tonight:
- Clear exterior vents. Ensure furnace, dryer and other exhaust vents are not blocked by snow, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
- Test carbon monoxide and smoke alarms. With heating systems running continuously, functioning detectors are critical.
- Inspect space heaters and fireplaces. Keep heaters away from flammable materials and confirm fireplaces are properly ventilated.
- Monitor roof and ceiling conditions. Heavy accumulation can strain roofs, particularly on older homes in Wilmington and Dover. Watch for sagging ceilings or unusual creaking.
- Protect exposed pipes. Open cabinets beneath sinks along exterior walls to allow warm air circulation.
- Keep vehicle exhaust pipes clear. Before starting cars in the morning, remove snow from tailpipes to prevent dangerous fumes.
- Charge phones and essential devices. Wind gusts overnight may cause scattered outages in parts of the state.
Communities from downtown Wilmington to residential areas near Dover Air Force Base have reported steady snowfall, with plow crews working extended shifts. However, officials caution that neighborhood roads may not be immediately cleared by morning.
Authorities are also encouraging residents to check on elderly neighbors and those with limited mobility, particularly in areas experiencing deeper drifts.
While snowfall is expected to taper off tomorrow, emergency officials note that the overnight hours often present the highest risk for frozen pipes, structural stress and heating-related hazards.
For many Delaware households, officials say a short inspection tonight could prevent serious problems by daybreak.
