A fresh blanket of snow and chilling temperatures are on the horizon for Delaware as a new winter storm makes its way across the United States. This storm, anticipated to begin its impact on the Central Plains by Saturday night, is predicted to bring heavy snow and the potential for significant ice accumulation as it moves eastward, reaching the Mid-Atlantic region early next week. Following this storm, a polar vortex is expected to descend, causing temperatures to plummet throughout the region.
For residents of Delaware eager to know about the approaching winter weather, here’s a detailed forecast for the weekend and the week ahead.
Snow Forecast for Delaware This Weekend
The forecast indicates a likelihood of snow starting Friday afternoon and continuing into Saturday morning across Delaware. While the chances of any snow are present, the probability of significant accumulation remains relatively low for this initial period. Here’s a breakdown of the percentage chance of snow accumulation for different counties in Delaware:
- New Castle County: 59%
- Kent County: 49%
- Sussex County: 46%
According to the National Weather Service, the chance of snow totals reaching an inch or more is approximately 5% throughout the state during this Friday-Saturday timeframe. So, while some flurries are possible, significant snow accumulation is not expected for this weekend.
Potential for Significant Snowfall on Monday
Looking ahead to early next week, the potential for more substantial snowfall increases. A massive snowstorm could bring 3 to 6 inches of snow to Delaware from Sunday night into Monday morning, according to AccuWeather. This storm is predicted to be widespread, impacting a large area stretching approximately 1,500 miles from the Plains and Mississippi Valley towards the Appalachians and the Atlantic coast. Some areas within this zone could even experience snowfall ranging from 6 to 12 inches. For Delaware, Monday appears to be the day to watch for the most significant snowfall from this system.
Polar Vortex and Frigid Temperatures Expected
Adding to the winter weather mix, a polar vortex is anticipated to affect Delaware next week. This polar vortex, a large area of very cold air that typically circulates over the North Pole, is expected to shift southward, bringing arctic temperatures to as many as 40 states in the U.S., including Delaware. Meteorologists at AccuWeather indicate that this polar vortex will push frigid air across a large portion of the country.
The National Weather Service forecasts the coldest period to be between January 7th and 14th. AccuWeather suggests that while the upcoming cold spells might not reach the extreme lows of the past decade, the sustained period of below-average temperatures will be notable across numerous states, from east of the Rockies to the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
According to AccuWeather lead long-range expert Paul Pastelok, “This could end up being the coldest January since 2011 for the U.S. as a whole.” Delaware residents can expect daytime highs barely above freezing next week, with nighttime lows dropping into the mid-teens.
In summary, while the immediate forecast doesn’t point to heavy snow today, Delaware is bracing for potential snowfall, particularly on Monday, and a significant drop in temperatures due to an incoming polar vortex. Stay tuned to local weather updates for the most accurate and up-to-date information as the storm develops.
