Governor Jack Markell declared a State of Emergency covering the entire state of Delaware effective at 8 p.m. today, with vehicles ordered off the roads as of 10 p.m., according to a press release from the governor's office.
Storm conditions are expected to intensify with heavy snowfall and strong winds that will make driving exceptionally dangerous. Given the anticipated strength of this storm, DelDOT crews are expected to concentrate on major arteries for plowing, initially leaving many secondary roads unattended.
As of 10 p.m. tonight and until further notice, the emergency declaration allows only emergency vehicles and essential personnel on the roads until further notice. The Governor will evaluate the conditions of the roads after the storm passes on Saturday morning to determine how long this restriction will remain in place. Private sector businesses are strongly urged to consider the safety of their employees and the restriction of travel during the storm when deciding whether to remain operating. Abandoned vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.
“For your safety, the safety of our emergency personnel, and the safety of all Delawareans, drivers should stay off the roads once this storm begins and intensifies,” Markell said. “Our state agencies have been working together to prepare for and combat the effects of this storm. Remaining off the roads helps them in this effort and is important to public safety.”
The Emergency Operations Center of the Delaware Emergency Management Agency has been activated, National Guard personnel and equipment have been placed around the state to be used if needed for emergency transportation and rescues, and plans are being made between emergency managers and the American Red Cross to open shelters throughout the state should the need arise.
