Wilmington, Delaware – A prolonged stretch of wet and potentially icy winter weather is expected to impact Delaware beginning Thursday, raising concerns for hazardous travel and slick road conditions that could persist into early next week.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Delaware is forecast to see above-normal precipitation through Monday, while temperatures trend near to slightly below seasonal averages. This pattern supports periods of steady rain, with a growing risk of freezing rain during overnight and early morning hours when surface temperatures dip closer to freezing.
Northern Delaware, including Wilmington and communities along the I-95 corridor, is most likely to see cold rain for much of the period. However, brief freezing rain cannot be ruled out late at night, particularly during heavier precipitation. Central and southern portions of the state, including Dover, Smyrna, and Georgetown, may also see periods of rain, with isolated icy patches developing during colder windows, especially on bridges and untreated secondary roads.
Travel conditions could become hazardous at times along major routes such as Interstate 95, Route 1, Route 13, and Route 113. Morning commutes may be especially impacted if freezing rain develops before temperatures rise above freezing, leading to slick spots that are difficult to detect.
This unsettled pattern is being driven by a broad cold front influencing much of the eastern United States, allowing cold air to linger near the surface while moisture continues to move northward along the coast. While widespread power outages are not expected, isolated issues cannot be ruled out if ice accumulates on trees or power lines.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather alerts, allow extra travel time, and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of freezing rain. This active pattern is expected to continue into early next week, with additional advisories or warnings possible as conditions evolve.
