Why Should Delaware Care?
With more than a foot of snow expected to hit large parts of the First State later this weekend, Gov. Matt Mayer declared a state of emergency on Friday evening. The declaration did not expressly spell out driving restrictions for the winter storm, instead saying they could come from the Governor’s office at a later time.
Gov. Matt Meyer declared a state of emergency today ahead of a winter storm projected to bring more than a foot of snow to large parts of Delaware. The state of emergency is set to go into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday.
In his announcement, Meyer said he would work closely with state agencies to set driving restrictions, meaning officials could choose to close roads to nonessential and non-emergency personnel, should officials deem it necessary.
Meyer also activated the National Guard as part of the declaration.
“Please prepare while you can, avoid being on the roads once the storm begins, and listen to your state and local officials for the latest information and safety warnings. Together, let’s make sure every Delawarean stays safe and warm this weekend,” Meyer said in the release.
A spokesperson for the Governor said Meyer and state officials will determine the level of driving restrictions based on the conditions of the state’s roadways.
The state could impose both a “Level 2” restriction, which would require drivers to have a waiver from the state’s emergency management agency to be on the roads, as well as a “Level 3” ban, which would restrict all nonessential drivers.
A level 3 ban would include certain exemptions, including emergency workers, first responders, and health care workers.
The state recommends that people sign up for its emergency notification system with information about the road restrictions and hazardous conditions.
Ahead of the weather event this weekend, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) outlined some winter weather safety tips, as well as items people should have in their homes.
In a press release on Wednesday, DEMA said residents should have shelf-ready food, water, flashlights, first-aid kits and medications on hand. The agency also said residents should keep baby formula and pet food readily available.
DEMA warned of the risks of cold exposure, which could lead to hypothermia and frostbite if people do not dress properly.
For those on the road, the release announcing the state of emergency said drivers should be extra cautious. Before going on the road, drivers should make sure their windshield wipers, tires and lights are functioning properly.
The release also recommended driving below the speed limit and warned drivers not to tail closely behind other vehicles. The state also said drivers should not pass snow plows.
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to reflect that Gov. Matt Meyer, not the Delaware Department of Transportation, will make decisions about driving restrictions during the declared state of emergency.