Delaware residents deal with some tricky weather all year, from hurricanes barreling up the coast to quick tornadoes and dangerous winter storms.
The state doesn’t see as many disasters as some places, but being on the coast leaves it wide open to extreme weather events that can show up fast and do real damage.
Every Delaware household really needs an emergency plan, a supplies kit, and a good way to get weather alerts before storms hit. Sometimes, being prepared is the only thing standing between a minor hassle and a real emergency for families across the First State.
Preparing for Delaware’s wild weather isn’t just about glancing at the forecast.
People should know how to get official alerts, set up family plans, build the right supply kits, and react when different types of severe weather threaten their area.
If you take these steps now, you’ll have a much better shot at staying safe when bad weather rolls in with almost no warning.
Understanding Delaware’s Extreme Weather Risks
Delaware gets hit with all kinds of weather, from hurricanes and coastal storms to severe thunderstorms and blizzards.
Living on the coast means Delaware is especially at risk from tropical systems and nor’easters that bring nasty winds, flooding, and rough conditions.
Types of Severe Weather Events
Delaware faces a handful of extreme weather types that can put people and property at risk.
Tropical cyclones—meaning hurricanes and tropical storms—are the biggest threat. These usually show up between June and November.
Severe thunderstorms pop up most often in the summer.
These storms bring damaging winds, big hail, and sometimes tornadoes. Honestly, wind events happen more than any other severe weather in Delaware.
Coastal storms can hit any time but really ramp up in March.
They drag in strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding along the coast. In winter, these storms can dump heavy snow and ice.
Tornadoes aren’t super common, but they do hit Delaware.
Most tornadoes happen in the warm, sticky summer months when the atmosphere is just right.
Common Hazards: Hurricanes, Floods, and Blizzards
Hurricanes and tropical storms are probably the worst for Delaware’s coast and even inland spots.
They bring storm surge, flooding rains, and winds that can easily top 74 mph. The risk goes way up in late summer and fall.
Flooding can come from a few different sources in Delaware.
Thunderstorms and tropical systems dump a lot of rain fast, which leads to flash flooding. Storm surge during hurricanes and nor’easters causes coastal flooding.
Blizzards and winter storms make travel dangerous and knock out the power.
These usually show up between December and March. Coastal storms in winter can pile up a lot of snow and ice, which snaps trees and power lines.
Each type of hazard needs its own plan and prep. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution here.
Seasonal Threats to Be Aware Of
Spring means more coastal storms, especially in March.
Thunderstorms start to ramp up as things warm up. People should get ready for high winds and heavy rain around this time.
Summer is when severe thunderstorms and hurricane season really kick in.
June, July, and August bring the most wind and tornadoes. You also have to watch out for heat emergencies if it stays hot for too long.
Fall is prime time for hurricanes in Delaware.
September and October tend to bring the worst tropical systems. Sometimes, early winter storms sneak in during late fall too.
Winter brings blizzards, ice storms, and nor’easters.
These can drop a lot of snow, coat everything in ice, and cause coastal flooding if the tides are high.
Official Alerts and Staying Informed
Delaware residents can get official weather alerts in plenty of ways—through the Delaware Emergency Management Agency’s system, NOAA Weather Radio, and local TV or radio.
It’s important to know the difference between watches and warnings so you can actually react the right way.
Delaware Emergency Notification System and DEMA
The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) runs the main emergency alert system for the state.
They send alerts straight to your phone, computer, or other devices when severe weather is on the way.
DEMA works with local agencies to get warnings out for all kinds of hazards.
The alerts cover winter storms, thunderstorms, flooding, and more.
You can sign up for these alerts on your county’s emergency management website.
Alerts give you detailed instructions for each weather emergency.
Alert Types:
- Immediate threats like tornadoes, flash floods, and severe thunderstorms
- Developing conditions such as winter storm watches or blizzard warnings
- Post-event updates including road closures and shelter info
The notification system reaches both landlines and cell phones.
It can also send messages to your email and as texts.
Understanding Watches and Warnings
A weather watch means the conditions are right for severe weather to form soon.
A warning means the dangerous weather is happening or about to start.
A winter storm watch tells you heavy snow or ice might hit your area.
A winter storm warning means it’s already happening or will start any minute.
Watch vs Warning:
- Watch – Be ready, keep an eye on the weather
- Warning – Act now, don’t wait
Blizzard warnings are the most serious for winter.
They mean winds of 35 mph or more with heavy snow that cuts visibility down to almost nothing.
You really need to take warnings seriously.
Warnings mean it’s time to act, while watches are more of a heads-up.
NOAA Weather Radio and Local Alerts
NOAA Weather Radio keeps weather info coming 24/7.
These radios, which can run on batteries or plug in, get direct reports from National Weather Service offices.
When severe weather threatens, the radios sound a loud alarm.
They’ll keep working even if the power’s out or the cell towers go down.
NOAA Radio Features:
- Automatic alerts for severe weather
- Battery backup, so you’re not left in the dark
- SAME technology (lets you get alerts for your specific area)
- Some areas even have broadcasts in other languages
Local TV and radio stations also break in with weather warnings.
They’ll often interrupt shows to cover severe weather.
Weather apps on your phone are another good option.
Most of them use National Weather Service data and can send you push notifications for dangerous conditions.
Don’t rely on just one way to get alerts.
If one system fails, you’ll want a backup so you don’t miss out on a warning.
Creating a Family Emergency Plan
A solid family emergency plan lays out how you’ll communicate, where you’ll go, and what you’ll do if the power goes out.
These plans help families stay safe and connected when severe weather hits Delaware.
Communication Strategies
Families need more than one way to reach each other in an emergency.
Storms can knock out cell towers, so backup plans really matter.
Pick an out-of-state contact who can help pass messages between family members.
This person should live far enough away to avoid the same storm.
Make sure everyone has that contact’s number.
Primary Communication Methods:
- Cell phones with emergency contacts saved
- Text messages (they usually work even when calls don’t)
- Social media check-ins
- Emergency radio broadcasts
Make a contact card for each family member.
List emergency numbers, the out-of-state contact, and where you’ll meet up.
Keep copies in wallets, backpacks, and cars.
Set times when everyone should try to check in, like every two hours during the day.
That way, you’re not draining batteries by calling nonstop.
Test your communication gear every month.
Swap out batteries in radios and alert devices.
Show everyone how to send emergency texts.
Evacuation Procedures
Every family needs two meeting spots in case you have to leave fast.
The first should be close to home for emergencies like fires.
Pick somewhere easy to find, like a neighbor’s house or local school.
Make sure everyone can get there safely on foot.
The second meeting spot should be farther away, outside your neighborhood.
Choose somewhere you can reach by car that offers shelter, like a library or community center.
Evacuation Checklist:
- Important documents in something waterproof
- Emergency supplies ready to grab
- Pet carriers and food
- Medications for everyone
- Cash in small bills
Practice your evacuation routes from home, work, and school.
Drive different ways in case main roads flood or close.
See how long each route takes under normal conditions.
Find out what evacuation zone you’re in.
Delaware’s coastal areas have specific hurricane evacuation routes—know where they go.
Preparing for Power Outages
Power outages are pretty common during Delaware’s severe weather.
Families should get ready for blackouts that could last a few days.
Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for updates.
Put flashlights in several rooms, not just one.
Store extra batteries somewhere cool and dry.
Power Outage Supplies:
- Flashlights and lanterns
- Battery-powered radio
- Extra batteries (all sizes)
- Portable phone chargers
- Manual can opener
- Matches in a waterproof container
Learn how to turn off your utilities safely.
Gas leaks can get dangerous during storms.
Know where the main water and gas shutoffs are.
Only adults who know what they’re doing should handle the gas.
Keep fridge and freezer doors closed.
Food stays cold for about 4 hours in the fridge and up to 2 days in a full freezer.
Use a thermometer to make sure your food is still safe.
Set up a safe area indoors with good ventilation.
Never use camping stoves, charcoal grills, or generators inside.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a real killer during big storms.
Building an Emergency Kit
A good emergency kit could make all the difference during severe weather.
You’ll want medical supplies, enough food and water for a few days, and some special gear for Delaware’s winter storms and power outages.
First Aid Kit Essentials
Every Delaware home should have a solid first aid kit ready for weather emergencies.
You’ll need bandages, gauze pads, medical tape, and antiseptic wipes.
Include prescription meds for everyone, with at least a week’s worth.
Store them in something waterproof so flooding or humidity doesn’t ruin them.
Painkillers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are important too.
Critical first aid items:
- Thermometer
- Instant cold packs
- Elastic bandages
- Scissors and tweezers
- Antibiotic ointment
- Emergency contact info
Keep a first aid manual or instruction cards in there.
It’s easy to forget what to do in a stressful moment.
Swap out expired meds and supplies every six months.
Food and Water Supplies
Water is the most important thing in your emergency kit.
Store at least one gallon per person per day for three days.
Use food-safe containers and replace the water every six months.
Pick non-perishable foods that don’t need cooking or a fridge.
Canned foods, peanut butter, crackers, and energy bars are all good bets.
Don’t forget a manual can opener—electric ones won’t work if the power’s out.
Recommended food supplies:
- Canned meats and veggies
- Dried fruit and nuts
- Granola bars and crackers
- Baby formula if you need it
- Pet food for your animals
Keep food in a cool, dry spot out of the sun.
Check expiration dates and rotate your supplies.
If anyone has allergies or special diets, make sure you’ve got safe food for them.
Tools and Equipment for Severe Conditions
Delaware winters call for some extra tools.
Keep shovels, ice scrapers, and rock salt handy for snow and ice.
A small portable generator can keep the essentials running if the power’s out for a while.
Fire extinguishers are a must but often forgotten.
Put them in the kitchen and garage—those are the most likely places for fires.
Check the pressure gauge every month and replace any that look low.
Essential emergency tools:
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife
- Duct tape and plastic sheeting
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Emergency blankets
Keep a car emergency kit with jumper cables, a tire repair kit, and flares.
Have extra batteries for all your devices.
Solar-powered chargers are handy if you lose power for days.
Protecting Your Home Against Severe Weather
Delaware homeowners can take real steps to protect their houses from extreme weather.
Add physical reinforcements, flood barriers, and wind-resistant features to help your home stand up to the storms that hit the region so often.
Strengthening Your Property
Storm shutters can shield your windows and doors during nasty weather. If you’re a homeowner, get those barriers up before hurricane season rolls around.
Roof maintenance saves you from expensive storm damage. Nail or glue down any loose shingles before the weather turns. If you spot missing or busted shingles, fix them right away—water and wind love those gaps.
Take down trees that could topple onto your house during storms. Dead branches and weak trees turn into dangerous projectiles in high winds. It’s smart to call a pro to check which trees need to go.
Garage doors really need extra support to handle strong winds. These big openings can give way under pressure, so add bracing systems or get wind-rated doors if you can.
Before a storm, bring outdoor stuff like grills, lawn chairs, toys, and bikes inside. Left outside, these things can turn into flying missiles that wreck property.
Flood and Snow Preparations
Flood insurance takes some planning because it doesn’t kick in right away. If you live in a flood-prone spot, buy your policy before anything happens. Regular homeowner’s insurance won’t cover flood damage.
Heavy snow can mess up roofs and gutters. Keep those gutters clear so you don’t get ice dams. When snow piles up too much, get it off the roof.
Install sump pumps in basements that tend to flood. A battery backup keeps the pump running even if the power goes out—floods love to hit during outages.
Make sure water drains away from your foundation. Slope the soil so it leads water away from the house. Clear out storm drains near your place.
Winter storms call for special care with heating systems. Get your furnace checked before it gets cold. Keep some extra fuel handy for backup heat, just in case.
Safety During High Winds
High winds bring their own risks, so take some extra steps. Don’t park your car under trees when storms are coming. Falling branches can smash cars or worse.
When you replace your roof, go for wind-resistant materials. Impact-resistant shingles and good installation help your roof survive the worst storms.
If you need to evacuate, board up your windows. Pre-cut plywood saves time when you’re in a rush. Store it somewhere easy to grab.
Learn how to shut off your utilities in an emergency. High winds can break gas lines and electrical systems. Turn off the main switches if you have to leave during a severe weather warning.
Set up safe rooms in interior spaces away from windows. Basements or even a closet inside the house work well during tornado warnings or big thunderstorms.
Responding to Specific Severe Weather Events
Delaware gets hit with all kinds of severe weather, and each one needs a different plan. Every event calls for its own safety steps to protect people and property.
Hurricanes and Flooding Safety
Delaware residents really need to keep an eye on hurricane watches and warnings during storm season. A hurricane watch means storms could show up within 48 hours, while a hurricane warning means they’ll probably hit within 36 hours.
Flooding is usually the biggest danger during hurricanes. If officials issue flash flood warnings, head to higher ground right away. Just six inches of moving water can knock you over—seriously.
Before hurricanes arrive:
- Move valuables upstairs
- Fill bathtubs with water for emergencies
- Bring in outdoor furniture and loose stuff
- Know your evacuation routes
During flooding events:
- Don’t drive through flooded roads
- Stay away from downed power lines
- Listen to emergency radio stations
- Avoid walking in moving water
Flood insurance takes 30 days to start, so get it well before storm season.
Thunderstorms and Tornado Preparedness
Severe thunderstorms can hit Delaware with strong winds, hail, and lightning. Wind speeds over 58 mph can cause real damage.
A tornado watch means the weather could create tornadoes. A tornado warning means someone spotted a tornado nearby, so take shelter right away.
The safest tornado shelters are:
- Basement corners away from windows
- Interior rooms on the lowest floor
- Small inside closets or bathrooms
- Under sturdy tables or desks
Lightning safety:
- Go inside when you hear thunder
- Stay away from windows and anything metal
- Don’t use phones or electronics
- Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before heading back out
Mobile homes won’t protect you from tornadoes. Find out where the nearest sturdy building or storm shelter is before storms hit.
Blizzard and Winter Storm Response
Winter storms can dump heavy snow, coat everything in ice, and bring wind chills that feel downright brutal. When you see a winter storm watch, it means a storm could be on the way. If you get a blizzard warning, you really need to take shelter right away.
Delaware uses three driving restriction levels when winter weather hits. Level 1 asks people to stay off the roads unless travel is essential. Level 2 only allows emergency workers and essential personnel on the roads. At Level 3, only first responders can drive—everyone else has to stay put.
Winter storm preparation includes:
- Stash at least three days’ worth of food and water
- Keep flashlights and battery radios handy
- Make sure you have warm clothes and blankets
- Stock your vehicle with an emergency kit
Ice storms are a whole different headache. If you can, just avoid walking or driving on ice altogether. If you see a downed power line, don’t go near it—there’s a real risk of electrocution.
Be careful with space heaters, since they need proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. Only run generators outside, and keep them away from doors and windows, just to be safe.