Delaware snow forecast: Wilmington under winter storm warning

Wilmington is under a winter storm warning from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

A  winter storm warning is issued when a combination of hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is forecasted.

Areas within the warning can expect total snow accumulations of 5 to 6 inches. The snow will make traveling difficult with hazardous conditions possible for the morning and evening commutes. In addition, temperatures will drop into the teens late Friday night and early Saturday morning leaving untreated roads icy and dangerous.

Other areas included in the warning are Philadelphia; Lower Bucks County, Pennsylvania; and Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

How much snow will Delaware get?

Here are the latest projections for Delaware:

  • Wilmington and the northern part of New Castle County is expected to get 4-6 inches.

  • Southern New Castle County is forecasted to receive 3-4 inches of snow.

  • Northern Kent County is forecasted to receive 2-3 inches.

  • Southern Kent County is forecasted to receive 1-2 inches of snow.

  • Sussex County will receive an inch or less of snow.

How cold will it get on Saturday in Delaware?

After temperatures drop into the tens Friday night, Saturday will be cold with gusty winds causing areas of blowing snow. Wind gusts could reach 35 mph causing wind chills to drop into the single digits.

Snow fall projections
Snow fall projections

There is good news; it's going to start getting warmer.

When will Delaware have temps above freezing?

The National Weather Service is forecasting a warm-up starting on Sunday, with temperatures climbing to 32 degrees. Monday will be sunny with highs near 39. Tuesday will see highs climb near 45 degrees. By Wednesday and next Thursday, temperatures will move into the 50s.

How to drive in the snow

Here are some tips from AAA.

  • Don't drive. If winter weather is hitting, only drive if you have to.

  • Reduce speed. Ice and snow decrease your traction with the road so slow down.

  • Increase following distances. Instead of the traditional two seconds, increase it to five to six seconds. Remember, it takes longer to stop on snowy roads.

  • Don't use cruise control.

  • Keep half a tank of gas in your car.

  • Have an emergency kit with cold-weather gear, blankets, extra food and water, a flashlight and a glass scraper.

  • Keep your phone charged in case of an emergency.

Winter driving tips
Winter driving tips

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This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Wilmington under winter storm warning as snow totals increase