If you’re planning something special for Valentine’s Day in Delaware, you’ll probably want to know what the weather’s up to. Mid-February usually brings chilly conditions across the state. Daytime highs tend to hang out in the low to mid-40s, and nighttime lows can dip into the upper 20s.
You’ll get cold but manageable weather, with a chance of light snow or rain depending on the year.
Knowing what to expect makes it easier to choose between booking a cozy indoor dinner or bundling up for a walk along the coast. Northern spots like Wilmington often run a bit colder than southern towns, where the air feels just a touch milder.
This difference lets you stay flexible if you’re up for a short drive within the state.
Valentine’s Day weather here doesn’t feel warm, but it rarely ruins plans. With realistic expectations, you can enjoy that crisp winter vibe that works well with Delaware’s historic charm, quiet beaches, and local gems.
Typical Valentine’s Day Weather in Delaware
Mid-February in Delaware usually brings cold temperatures, a fair chance of rain, and sometimes snow, especially up north. Depending on where you are, conditions change—coastal areas usually feel milder and see less snow than inland towns.
Average High and Low Temperatures
On Valentine’s Day, Delaware’s temperatures usually stay cool. Daytime highs average between 40°F and 48°F (4°C to 9°C). Nighttime lows often fall between 25°F and 30°F (-4°C to -1°C).
Wilmington and other northern cities run a few degrees colder than places like Seaford in the south. That small difference makes a day up north feel brisker, so you’ll want heavier layers.
You’ll want to plan for chilly mornings and evenings. Midday feels most comfortable, but the air often feels damp, which can make it seem colder than the numbers suggest.
Dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable if you’re heading outdoors.
Precipitation Patterns and Probability
February isn’t Delaware’s wettest month, but you’ll still see some precipitation. On average, 6 to 7 days in February bring measurable rain or snow in Wilmington. Seaford averages a bit more.
Rainfall amounts stay moderate. Most Valentine’s Days see light rain or drizzle, not heavy downpours.
Coastal areas usually get rain because the air and ground run a little warmer, while inland towns have a better shot at a wintry mix.
You’ll probably see unsettled skies. Clear days don’t show up often this time of year, and cloud cover tends to stick around. Sunshine hours stay short.
If you’re planning to be outside, keep an eye on the forecast—conditions can change quickly from dry to damp.
Chance of Snowfall
Snow can show up on Valentine’s Day in Delaware, but it doesn’t happen every year. Wilmington averages about 6 inches of snow in February. Southern Delaware sees closer to 4 inches.
The odds of snow right on the holiday are pretty low, but you might catch a snow shower or a light accumulation, especially in northern counties.
Coastal areas rarely see sticking snow because the air’s a bit milder.
If snow falls, it’s usually just a light dusting rather than a big storm. Icy conditions can develop overnight when temps drop below freezing, so travel plans might get tricky. It’s smart to check road conditions if you’re driving late at night or early in the morning.
Historical Weather Records for February 14
Valentine’s Day weather in Delaware has swung from mild and sunny to snowy and bitterly cold. Temperature swings, snowstorms, and rainfall extremes have all shown up on this mid-February date.
Record Highs and Lows
Delaware’s seen some wild temperature swings on February 14. In Wilmington, the warmest Valentine’s Day hit the mid-70s°F during an unusually mild spell.
On the flip side, record lows have dropped into the single digits. Wind chills can make it feel even colder.
The state sits between the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast climates, so some years bring spring-like warmth, while others remind you winter’s not letting go.
| Location | Record High | Record Low |
|---|---|---|
| Wilmington | 74°F | 5°F |
| Dover | 72°F | 7°F |
These swings can mess with your plans, whether you’re thinking about a walk along the Riverfront or a cozy night inside.
Notable Snow Events
Snow on Valentine’s Day in Delaware isn’t as common as up north, but it does happen. Records show several years when measurable snow hit on February 14, sometimes messing up travel and events.
One memorable case was a snowstorm in the early 2000s that dropped several inches across New Castle and Kent Counties. Sussex County saw lighter snow, but icy roads still caused delays.
Most years, there’s little or no snow on this date. Still, the chance remains, especially if a coastal storm tracks close by. Even a few inches can make roads slick and affect dinner or travel plans.
Wettest and Driest Valentine’s Days
Rainfall records show a real contrast between very wet and very dry Valentine’s Days in Delaware. Some years brought over an inch of rain, usually as a cold, steady downpour.
This kind of weather often arrives with coastal systems moving up the Eastern Seaboard.
Other years, there’s no measurable precipitation at all, leaving the day clear but often chilly. Dry conditions pop up more often than soaking rains, so you’ve got a better shot at fair weather.
| Category | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| Wettest | 1.3 inches |
| Driest | 0.0 inches |
These records show how Valentine’s Day can land anywhere between gray and damp or crisp and dry.
Weather Variability and Trends in Mid-February
Mid-February in Delaware tends to bring a mix—cold mornings, mild afternoons, and the chance of snow or rain all in the same week. Conditions can shift fast, which makes planning outdoor Valentine’s Day activities a bit of a gamble.
Temperature Fluctuations
Daily highs in mid-February usually range from the mid-40s °F to upper 40s °F. Lows often dip into the mid-20s to low 30s °F.
For example, Wilmington averages about 44°F high / 27°F low. Coastal Lewes is a bit milder at 48°F high / 32°F low.
Cold fronts sometimes push temps below freezing even during the day. On the flip side, a brief warm spell can nudge things into the low 50s °F.
These swings show up a lot around Valentine’s Day—a mild afternoon might follow a frosty morning.
Because of all this, you might need both a winter coat and lighter layers in the same week. If you’re walking along the coast or hitting outdoor attractions, expect breezy weather that makes the air feel colder than the thermometer claims.
Climate Change Effects
Long-term data shows Delaware winters have warmed compared to decades ago. Average February temps have crept up a few degrees, and snow cover isn’t as reliable as it used to be.
You’ll probably notice more winter rain events instead of regular snowfalls. Wilmington still averages about 7–8 inches of snow in February, but the number of days with measurable snowfall has dropped compared to the mid-1900s.
This change means Valentine’s Day is less likely to get buried by heavy snow, though a quick snowstorm can still show up. Warmer air lets storms carry more moisture, so when it does snow, it can be heavy and wet.
Comparisons to Other February Dates
Compared to early February, mid-month weather brings a little more daylight and a slight bump in temps. Morning lows in the first week usually stick near the mid-20s °F. By Valentine’s Day, they trend closer to 28–30°F.
Late February turns milder, with more days nudging into the 50s °F. But snow risk doesn’t really go away until March, especially up north.
Valentine’s Day lands right in this transition. You might get a bright, chilly day with sun, or maybe a damp, cloudy afternoon with a messy mix. This stretch of winter in Delaware stays unpredictable.
Regional Differences Across Delaware
Valentine’s Day weather in Delaware really depends on where you are. Conditions shift between the coast and inland, and from north to south, changing how cold it feels and what kind of precipitation you get.
Coastal Versus Inland Conditions
If you’re at the beach for Valentine’s Day, you’ll notice milder temperatures compared to inland towns. The Atlantic helps regulate things, so coastal highs run a few degrees warmer and lows aren’t as harsh.
Inland areas, like central Delaware, cool off faster at night. You’ll see more frost or even light snow away from the coast, while beach towns usually just get cold rain.
Key differences:
- Coastal highs: mid-40s °F
- Inland highs: low 40s °F
- Coastal lows: mid-30s °F
- Inland lows: often below freezing
Wind plays a role too. Coastal towns feel breezier, making a 40°F day bite a bit more. Inland spots aren’t as windy but can still feel raw when the air’s damp.
If you’re planning a Valentine’s dinner by the water, bring a warm coat—the ocean breeze can cut right through.
Northern and Southern Delaware Weather
Northern Delaware, including Wilmington, usually runs colder and gets more snow in mid-February. Average lows dip into the upper 20s °F, and snow showers show up more often than in the south.
Southern Delaware, like Seaford or the beach towns, stays a few degrees warmer. Lows hover in the low 30s °F, and snow isn’t as common. Rain or a wintry mix is more likely here on Valentine’s Day.
Temperature comparison:
| Region | Highs (°F) | Lows (°F) | Precipitation Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| North | 40–45 | 27–30 | Snow or mix |
| South | 43–48 | 31–34 | Rain or mix |
If you want a better shot at snow for your Valentine’s outing, head north. If you’d rather have a milder evening, the south offers a softer version of winter.
Outdoor Activities and Planning for Valentine’s Day
Delaware’s February weather often brings cold air, damp ground, and the chance of light snow or rain. Planning an outdoor Valentine’s Day means balancing romance with some practical steps to stay comfortable.
Romantic Hiking Trails and Parks
You can still enjoy Delaware’s scenic trails in mid-February if you’re ready for the cold. Cape Henlopen State Park gives you coastal views and shorter trails, so you can soak up the ocean breeze without spending hours outside.
Inland, White Clay Creek State Park offers wooded paths and open fields for a quiet walk together.
If you want something shorter, Brandywine Creek State Park has paved paths that make walking easier when it’s wet. These spots let you enjoy nature without overcommitting in the cold.
Bring a thermos of hot cocoa or coffee to make things more comfortable. A small picnic with warm food can be a nice touch, but try to find a wind-sheltered area.
Tips for Weather-Ready Celebrations
Temps around Valentine’s Day usually stay in the 30s or 40s °F. Dress in layers so you can peel something off if you warm up while walking.
Waterproof boots and gloves help if it’s muddy or snowy.
Carry a blanket or tarp if you want to sit outside. It keeps the damp from seeping through and helps you stay warmer. A compact umbrella comes in handy since light rain showers aren’t unusual.
Keep your plans flexible. If the forecast calls for freezing rain or strong winds, switch to a shorter walk or move to a sheltered spot like a fire pit. Being ready for changing weather makes the day a lot more enjoyable.
What to Wear and Pack for Valentine’s Day in Delaware
Mid-February temperatures usually stay cool, with daytime highs in the 40s and nighttime lows often dropping below freezing. You’ll want to prepare for both chilly outdoor conditions and warmer indoor settings when deciding what to bring.
Clothing Recommendations
In February, Delaware usually hits highs in the mid-40s °F. At night, temps can dip into the upper 20s °F. You’ll want to layer up to stay comfortable.
Start with a warm base layer—something like a long-sleeve shirt. Then, toss on a medium-weight sweater or fleece. When evening rolls around, an insulated coat really helps.
For pants, jeans or heavier options do the trick. Planning to walk outside? You might want to pull on thermal leggings under your pants. Indoor Valentine’s Day dinners can actually get pretty warm, so having layers you can peel off is a smart move.
Footwear matters a lot, especially with wet or icy sidewalks. Waterproof boots with good traction keep you safer than dress shoes outside. If you’re set on formal shoes for dinner, just pack them and swap once you get inside.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Setting | Suggested Clothing |
|---|---|
| Outdoor strolls | Coat, scarf, gloves, boots |
| Casual daytime wear | Jeans, sweater, light jacket |
| Evening dinner date | Dress clothes with a warm overcoat |
Essential Accessories
Accessories really matter in Delaware’s unpredictable February weather. A scarf, hat, and gloves keep you warm against those cold winds, especially along the coast where the breeze somehow always feels sharper.
If you know you’ll be outside for a while, go with insulated gloves. They make a big difference.
You’ll want an umbrella or maybe a compact rain jacket. February usually brings around 7 or 8 days of precipitation, so you could run into light rain or even snow on Valentine’s Day.
A small umbrella slips right into your bag, so you’re not caught off guard. It’s just easier that way.
Don’t forget sunglasses, even in winter. The sun bouncing off snow or wet pavement can be surprisingly harsh.
If you’re planning to be out during the day, toss a pair in your bag. You’ll thank yourself later.
For comfort, bring moisturizer and lip balm. That cold, dry air can really bother your skin.
These are tiny items, but they make your trip a lot more comfortable.
If you’re staying overnight, pack both casual and dressier clothes. You’ll probably want something relaxed for daytime, and then something a bit nicer for a Valentine’s dinner.