Snow may be in forecast for Delaware. How to prepare for winter weather
Winter is coming, maybe.
The National Weather Service in Mount Holly posted on the social media site X Tuesday that a coastal storm could impact the Delaware Valley region this weekend and bring the first impactful snow of the season.
PLENTY of uncertainty remains with our coastal storm this weekend - that much we know for sure. Otherwise, it is still too early for specifics at this time, but impactful snow, heavy rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding are all on the table. pic.twitter.com/cTNfuZRySI
— NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) January 2, 2024
While the forecast is still in flux, the best chance for snow is above a line extending from Reading, Pennsylvania, to Morristown, New Jersey.
The area below the line, which includes Philadelphia, South Jersey and all of Delaware, is faced with a chance of snow, a wintery mix or heavy rain.
What's the forecast for the week?
This week's forecast, according to accuweather.com is calling for clear weather Tuesday and Wednesday with highs in the mid-40s and lows in the high 20s and low 30s.
The first chance of snow will occur on Thursday with a wintery mix forecast. Highs will be in the low 40s and lows will be in the 20s.
After a sunny day on Friday with highs in the 40s, rain moves in Saturday afternoon with a chance of rain or snow Saturday night and on Sunday.
How to prepare for winter weather?
Stock up on snow removal supplies: Add rock salt or ice melt, space heaters, and snow shovels to your snow preparation arsenal
Make sure your snowblower is working: There's nothing worse than having heavy snow and finding out your snowblower isn't working. Before the storm hits, do a test run or take it in for a tune-up.
Clean the gutters. Remove all dead leaves and other debris so that your gutters can do what they’re intended to do—collect water from the roof and channel it down to the ground.
Inspect the roof. Repair or replace any damaged shingles, or hire someone to do it for you.
Trim tree branches. Cut or trim back any trees that are close to your house. “Trees can fall and damage your yard, roof, or entire home,” Micetich says.
Add more insulation. Call in a pro to check your insulation and add more where necessary. “Proper levels of insulation will keep you warm in the winter and help lower your utility bills year-round,” says Micetich.
Seal up cracks. Inspect doors and windows for drafts and seal up any openings to avoid the loss of heat and warm air.
Insulate your pipes. Frozen pipes can burst, flooding your home and yard.
How to shovel snow
Once the snow hits and you have to shovel, there are some tips for staying healthy, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Take care of your heart: If you have heart problems, check with your physician before you start heavy exercise like shoveling snow.
Dress appropriately: Wear several layers of clothing and make sure to protect your hands and face from frostbite.
Drink plenty of water: Just like working out, you need to stay hydrated.
Pace yourself and protect your body: It's better to take your time, lift with your knees and beware of any pain or soreness you have while shoveling.
Have your phone: If you're experiencing an emergency, call 911.
Mark Brezinski and Barbara Bellesi Zito contributed to this story.
Driving in the snow?: What to do if you're stuck in your car during a winter storm
How much snow will Delaware get: What is the seasonal weather outlook for Delaware?
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Will it snow this weekend? How to prepare for winter weather
