DELAWARE (1/7/2016) Following a storm that dumped as much as 10 inches of snow on downstate Delaware, Gov. Jack Markell this evening lifted a limited state of emergency he had declared earlier in the day for Sussex
County.
His order ending the emergency was effective at 6 p.m. It had been in effect since 8 a.m. today.
“While the road and weather conditions have improved enough to lift the state of emergency, I continue to urge people to avoid driving when possible in Sussex and Kent counties to allow DelDOT to continue to plow efficiently,” Markell said. “We expect plowing to continue all day tomorrow and possibly into Monday to ensure the best conditions for the morning commute. If you must be on the roads, please continue to drive cautiously and keep your distance from the plows. I thank all of the DelDOT workers who have responded to this storm and all of the residents who have heeded our calls for caution today.”
The National Weather Service predicts an overnight low of 15 degrees, with northwest winds blowing snow and reducing visibility. Sunday will be sunny with a high of 25 degrees. Winds may gust to 32 mph.
The 10-inch snow total was reported at Selbyville and Lewes. Lower amounts fell elsewhere in the state.
At 10 a.m., DelDOT reported the left southbound lane of Route 1 was closed on the snow-covered Barkers Landing Bridge, over the St. Jones River south of Dover. Numerous other accidents were reported.
By issuing a state of emergency, the governor authorized the National Guard, in coordination with the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, to take precautionary or responsive actions. Markell’s order also directed the Department of Transportation to, if necessary, order bridge and road closures to protect public health and safety.
After working through the night Thursday to limit ice on the roadways statewide during Friday’s light snowfall, DelDOT crews reported in Sussex County at 2:00 a.m. today to begin salting and plowing.
