DelDOT Winter Storm Update #3

With roadway conditions continuing to deteriorate, Governor Carney on Thursday issued a State of Emergency for Sussex County and Level 2 Driving Restriction. The State of Emergency for Sussex County took effect at 2:00 p.m., and the Level 2 Driving Restriction took effect at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 4. Governor Carney also authorized the Delaware National Guard to assist state and local officials with any necessary response and recovery for this severe winter storm.

Delaware has a three-level system of driving warnings and restrictions. The levels are found in Title 20 of the Delaware Code, Subsection 3116(b)(12) and may be put in effect by the Governor during a State of Emergency for all or parts of Delaware based on conditions.

The Level 2 Driving Restriction means that no person may operate a motor vehicle on Delaware roadways, except for persons designated as “essential personnel.” 

Level 2 – Driving Restriction Definition:
Travel on the roads is restricted to emergency workers, public utilities, healthcare providers including hospital staff, public and private operators of snow removal equipment, private sector food and fuel deliveries, and those industries, companies, or organizations that have been provided a waiver, including businesses with pressing continuity and operational issues.

Road Conditions Update:
In Sussex County, DelDOT is advising residents that this will be a prolonged clean up event due to the high winds, drifting snow, and extremely cold temperatures. DelDOT will continue to focus its efforts on plowing primary roads.

While Kent and New Castle Counties have seen lesser snow accumulations, high winds and drifting snow are still a hazard and motorists should be cautious of icy conditions due to the below freezing temperatures. DelDOT snow plows remain active in plowing and treating primary roadways.

DelDOT will continue to provide regular updates throughout the duration of the storm event.