Significant Coastal Storm Expected To Bring Heavy Rains, Flooding And Damaging Winds To Delaware

DEMA Offers Five Steps to Prepare Now for Severe Weather

(SMYRNA, DE) - In anticipation of an intensifying coastal storm this weekend, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) urges residents to monitor and prepare by following National Weather Service (NWS) reports and all subsequent guidance from local officials. The NWS has announced a Coastal Flood Watch, Storm and High Wind Watch from Sunday through Monday evening for portions of Delaware and across Atlantic coastal waters and the lower Delaware Bay, respectively.

There is an increasingly likelihood that this could storm could develop into a significant to severe weather event, potentially resulting in moderate to major coastal flooding, excessive rainfall between 1-5 inches along coastal and bay areas, strong damaging winds and wind gusts of nearly 60 mph. Inland wind gusts and flooding in urban areas may be expected as well. Along with this, there remains the potential for storm and wind-related tree damage and power outages. Dangerous marine and beach conditions include gale and storm force winds across all marine zones with very dangerous surge. Strong rip currents, beach erosion and dune breaching may also be anticipated. The storm could result in dangerous conditions including roadway flooding, impassable roads, possible inundation of structures and the possibility for evacuations. The Delaware Emergency Management Agency is monitoring weather conditions and is working with local agencies to address any emerging needs.

"We're asking Delawareans to follow local directives to remain safe through the developing storm. Take steps now to check your emergency kit, to clear gutters and secure outdoor furniture, to set aside some cash in case of loss of power, and to avoid nonessential travel during periods of heavy rains," commented DEMA Director, A.J. Schall. "We're urging residents to sign up for the Delaware Emergency Notification System by visiting de.gov/dens to receive critical alerts, and to monitor weather reports through the weekend."

DEMA recommends these important steps people can take to best prepare for severe weather.

1. Sign up for DENS, Delaware Emergency Notification System at https://dema.delaware.gov/ to receive emergency updates on your phone or via email. 2. Know your Zone - Visit https://preparede.org/know-your-zone/ - Type in your address to confirm which evacuation zone you reside in. Even if you reside outside of the evacuation zones it is important to continue to monitor local news reports https://dema.delaware.gov/as you may still be impacted by storm-related flooding, wind, and dangerous road conditions. Always be mindful the dangers of flood waters and flash flooding especially while driving. Remember, when in doubt, Turn Around, Don't Drown. 3. Make a Plan for evacuation, that children understand, which includes relocation instructions and printed copies of family phone numbers and insurance documents in a waterproof bag. Home preparedness can also include elevating belongings, including moving vehicles to higher ground, clearing gutters, removing loose, low-lying branches, and securing outdoor furniture that can become airborne during periods of high winds. Visit https://preparede.org/make-a-plan/ for a full list of home preparedness tips. 4. Build a Kit of essential items such as medicines, water, non-perishable foods, flashlights, radios and batteries along with child and pet needs for 3-7 days. Emergency kits can also include seasonal preparedness such as blankets and automotive safety measures such as having a full tank of gas. Visit https://dema.delaware.gov/ for a broader list of potential items for your emergency go bag. 5. Stay Informed by listening to emergency radio stations (see below) and by following trusted local agencies' social media accounts and credible news sources for information and possible protective actions. Staying informed also means understanding your homeowner's insurance policy to determine an appropriate level of coverage including flood insurance from FEMA as needed. Visit https://preparede.org/stay-informed/ and floodsmart.gov for more information.

LOCAL EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM STATIONS INCLUDE:

WDEL-AM 1150 WDDE-FM 91.1 WCHK-FM 101.3
WWTX-AM 1290 WRDX-FM 92.9 WJWL-AM 900 (Spanish language)
WDOV-AM 1410 WSTW-FM 93.7
WILM-AM 1450 WDSD-AM 94.7
WJBR-FM 99.5
Boaters tune to Marine Channel 16
Delaware Statewide Traffic Advisory Radio WTMC 1380 AM

ABOUT DEMA
The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is the lead state agency for coordination of comprehensive emergency preparedness, training, response, recovery, and mitigation services to save lives, protect Delaware's economic base, and reduce the impact of emergencies. DEMA is a division within the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS) and authorized by Delaware Code.

Social Media: Delaware Emergency Management Agency on Facebook, X, and Instagram