Delaware sees first snowfall of the season. Weekend forecast, winter weather driving tips

Krys'tal Griffin, Delaware News Journal
Updated ·4 min read

A portion of Delaware got a snowy surprise Thursday morning as the state saw its first snowfall of the season.

For everyone wondering when, and if, Delaware would get a taste of snow this year, you have your answer.

A trace amount of snow fell in the Hockessin-Pike Creek-Newark area, according to the Delaware Environmental Observing System. The snowfall was brought by a strong cold front moving east across the country, which will culminate in showers and thunderstorms in areas on the East Coast on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.

Between now and then, some regions are forecast to experience wintry precipitation, and Delaware seems to be a part of the trend.

What is the weather in Delaware?

The high is expected to be near 44 degrees with 10-mph winds on Thursday. By nightfall, skies will be partly cloudy with 5-mph winds and a low of around 30 degrees.

Friday will turn around with a high of around 56 degrees and mostly sunny skies. Winds between 5 mph and 10 mph will be present in the afternoon. In the evening, skies will be partly cloudy with a low of around 36 degrees. Winds around 5 mph will be present.

Partly sunny skies will start Saturday off with a high near 56 degrees and winds between 5 and 10 mph. By nightfall, there is a 30% chance of showers after 1 a.m. Skies will be mostly cloudy with a low of around 44 degrees.

A runner jogs in shorts along Valley Road in Hockessin as snow rolls into Delaware and the surrounding area in 2018.
A runner jogs in shorts along Valley Road in Hockessin as snow rolls into Delaware and the surrounding area in 2018.

On Sunday, an 80% chance of rain is forecast. It will be windy with a high near 65 degrees. In the evening, it will be windy with a low of around 39 degrees and a 90% chance of rain.

The work week will start a bit clearer on Monday with partly sunny skies and a high near 46 degrees. It will be breezy.

Winter weather driving tips

A pedestrian walks across the street as snow begins to accumulate in Wilmington Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020.
A pedestrian walks across the street as snow begins to accumulate in Wilmington Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020.

Winter weather can pose various hazards for even the most experienced drivers. To ensure you’re staying safe while on the roads, here are some tips from New Castle County police:

  • Stay informed about weather and road conditions before you get behind the wheel. If weather conditions are severe, consider alternate travel plans.

  • Keep a winter emergency kit in your car that includes essentials like a flashlight, first-aid kit, blanket, extra clothes and non-perishable snacks.

  • Clean off your vehicle before driving. All mirrors, lights and windows should be clear of snow and ice before you drive. Your headlights should be on when driving in inclement conditions, too.

  • Drive at a speed that suits current road conditions. If the road is slippery or flooded, ease up on the gas. Arriving late is better than ending up in an accident.

  • Maintain a safe distance from drivers in front of you to accommodate sudden stops and provide a buffer zone of space between cars to avoid crashes.

  • Avoid making any sudden movements while steering, accelerating and braking. Suddenly swerving or stopping on a snowy or icy road can lead you to lose control of your car and hydroplane.

  • Act in accordance with your braking system. If your car has an anti-lock braking system, apply steady pressure when braking. If not, use a pumping motion to prevent skidding on the road.

  • Consider buying winter tires, which are specifically designed for navigating winter conditions and can greatly help drivers stay in control when driving on slippery roads.

Before driving in any hazardous conditions, assessing the limits of your car will help you stay in control when driving and avoid unsafe conditions.

Doing circles in the parking lot isn’t just for teenagers with driving permits. If you need a refresher on your car’s capability, New Castle County police suggest taking your car for a quick spin in an empty lot to test out its durability and get a feel for how it responds to the current conditions.

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at kgriffin@delawareonline.com. 

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This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Snow in Delaware, weekend forecast and winter weather driving tips