Delaware Braces for Historic Blizzard, Driving Bans in Effect

Delaware is under a state of emergency as a powerful blizzard descends upon the state, bringing with it heavy snowfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding. Driving restrictions ranging from warnings to complete bans are in effect across all three counties as of Sunday evening, February 22, 2026.

State of Emergency and Driving Restrictions

Governor Meyer has declared a state of emergency and activated the National Guard to assist with storm response. Driving restrictions were implemented throughout the day on February 22nd and were escalated as the storm intensified.

• Fresh Castle County: Level 2 Driving Restrictions are in effect, meaning only essential personnel are permitted to operate motor vehicles. This includes snow removal equipment operators and those with approved waivers from the Delaware Emergency Management Agency.
• Kent and Sussex Counties: A Level 3 Driving Ban is in effect, prohibiting all civilian vehicle operation. Exceptions are made for first responders, essential personnel (including public utility workers), and snow removal equipment operators.

Violators of the Level 3 Driving Ban may face penalties, and employers are prohibited from penalizing employees who adhere to the restrictions. Several roads in Kent and Sussex counties have already been closed due to downed trees and utility work. Delaware.gov provides updates on road closures and driving restrictions.

Snowfall Predictions and Potential Records

The National Weather Service (NWS) is forecasting significant snowfall across the state. As of Sunday night, February 22nd, the predicted snowfall totals are:

• New Castle County: 12-18 inches
• Kent County: 12-18 inches
• Sussex County: 12-18 inches

Snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour are possible overnight, potentially leading to whiteout conditions and making travel extremely dangerous. Delaware Online reports on the latest snow forecasts.

The NWS notes that Wilmington Airport’s record snowfall for February 23rd is 12.4 inches, set in 1987. The two-day snowfall record for February 22nd-23rd is 14.4 inches, also set in 1987. The all-time record for a single day of snowfall in Delaware is 22 inches, recorded on January 7, 1996, and the two-day record is 25.8 inches, set on February 5-6, 2010. News-USA Today details Delaware’s snowfall records.

Power Outages

Power outages are already being reported across the state. As of 9:20 p.m. On February 22nd:

• Delaware Electric Coop reported nearly 3,000 customers without power in Sussex County.
• Delmarva Power reported over 6,000 customers affected by 265 active outages.

Coastal Flooding

A coastal flood warning is in effect for Kent and Sussex counties, adding to the dangers posed by the blizzard. Delaware Online provides information on coastal flooding risks.

State Office Closures

All state offices in all three counties will be closed on Monday, February 23, 2026, from midnight to 11:59 p.m. Non-essential employees are not to report to work, while essential personnel are expected to report as scheduled.

Residents are urged to stay home and avoid all unnecessary travel. Stay tuned to local news and weather updates for the latest information.