For those who live or work within 10 miles of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Stations

To check whether you are within the Emergency Planning Zone, or EPZ, visit de.gov/epz

SMYRNA, Del. — The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), the Delaware State Police, and Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PSEG), will conduct a quarterly test of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations Alert and Notification system on Tuesday, April 2, at 7:20 p.m.

There are 37 sirens in Delaware located within a 10-mile radius of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations in New Jersey. The sirens cover an area north from Delaware City, west to Middletown, and south to Woodland Beach. This test is part of an ongoing program that continually monitors the integrity of the siren system. Sirens will be activated for three to five minutes, followed by a test message of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) on local radio stations. Sirens tested are the same ones used to alert the public in the event of an actual emergency at either the Salem or Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations.

In the event of an actual emergency, there would be a series of steady three (3) to five (5) minute siren sounds that would alert citizens to turn their radio to an Emergency Alert System (EAS) station for critical emergency information or instructions.

If there are any questions, please call the Delaware Emergency Management Agency at 1-877-SAY-DEMA (1-877-729-3362) or (302) 659-3362 and ask for Georgina Harris-Sharper or Albert Samah. To learn more about radiological preparedness, visit PrepareDE.org.

Potassium Iodide (KI) Distribution Event on April 4 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) and Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) will distribute free potassium iodide (KI) tablets to Delaware residents living within a 10-mile radius (also known as the Emergency Planning Zone or EPZ) of the Salem/Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations. The free tablets will be distributed on Thursday, April 4, between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. at the Volunteer Hose Co. of Middletown, 27 W. Green Street, Middletown, Delaware.

KI is available to residents who have received it previously and whose tablets have reached their expiration date, as well as those who never received tablets before. Individuals with home or business addresses within the EPZ are eligible to receive the KI tablets. Recipients must bring a photo ID such as a driver’s license, proof of residency such as a utility bill, or proof of employment within the EPZ when they go to the Middletown Fire Hall—this is the only requirement to receive KI tablets. Residents who have KI that is expired can bring those tablets to the distribution center to exchange for new ones.

KI does not protect against external radiation but can help protect the thyroid gland from ingested or inhaled radioactive iodine that might be released in a radiation emergency. KI is one of the protective measures outlined in Delaware’s emergency plans developed for use in a nuclear incident. The State of Delaware receives the tablets through a program initiated by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

Delaware residents living outside of the 10-mile EPZ who would like to obtain KI tablets should contact their pharmacist. KI is also available over the counter at some local pharmacies.

The 10-mile EPZ in Delaware is comprised of four Emergency Response Planning Areas (ERPAs):

• ERPA A: Port Penn, Odessa, East of Townsend, North Smyrna, and South St. George’s Areas
• ERPA B: Middletown, East of Townsend, and North Smyrna Areas.
• ERPA C: Delaware City, North Middletown, St. George’s, and Reybold Areas.
• ERPA D: The Delaware River and Bay.

For additional information regarding the potassium iodide distribution program in Delaware, call the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) section at 302-659-3362. More information and resources can be found at PrepareDE.org

RESOURCES AND INFORMATION:

2023-2024 Emergency Plan Information for NJ and DE (PSEG Calendar) with up-to-date info and resources.

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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 and X and Instagram

Governor John Carney and Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long have proclaimed March 11 to March 15 as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Delaware. In recent years, Delaware has experienced flooding, tornadoes, and coastal storms that put lives and property at risk and adversely impact the health, safety, and economic well-being of families, businesses, and schools. Learning about the different types of hazards can increase preparedness and reduce the devastation caused by severe weather.

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is joining with the National Weather Service in Philadelphia/Mount Holly, NJ, the Center for Environmental Monitoring and Analysis (CEMA) at the University of Delaware, and Delaware Sea Grant to raise awareness. Flooding, coastal storms, tornadoes, and lightning are just some of the weather threats that can occur in Delaware, often with little warning. The National Weather Service is hosting a “Severe Weather Awareness Week” webpage with many informative resources and links to NOAA’s Weather-Ready Nation website. Tips on making a family plan, building a preparedness kit, and staying informed can be found at PrepareDE.org.

Delaware Emergency Management Agency Director A.J. Schall said, “Preparing for severe weather is important because it can reduce the risks of injury, death, and property damage. These weather events are becoming more frequent and intense. You can protect yourself and your loved ones by being informed, alert, and ready.”

Residents are urged to follow along on DEMA’s social media accounts for a different weather hazard each day, providing historical context as well as links to valuable information on how to keep your family safe.

• Monday, the topic will be flooding
• Tuesday, the topic will be tornadoes and tornado safety
• Wednesday, the topic will be severe thunderstorms and hail
• Thursday, the topic will be lightning safety
• Friday, the topic will be preparing for severe weather

Delaware Severe Weather Awareness Week is a reminder that Delaware has been hit with many major weather events within the past four years. Record rainfall from the remnants of Hurricane Ida in 2021 caused historic flooding in parts of downtown Wilmington, Tropical Storm Isaias in 2020 spawned the longest tornado ever recorded in Delaware, which wreaked a path of destruction as it traveled from Dover in Kent County to Glasgow in New Castle County. This year also marks almost one year since a tragic tornado fatality occurred on April 1, 2023 in Sussex County. It was the first tornado-related death since two people were killed near a mobile home community near Hartly on July 21, 1983.

Nationally, NOAA reports that 2023 was the most historic and costly year on record for disasters. There were 28 weather and climate disasters in 2023 – surpassing the previous record of 22 in 2020 – causing at least $92.9 billion in damages. Experts believe extreme weather is increasing due to climate change while studies suggest that the human cost of climate-related disasters is acutely undercounted. A U.S. Census Bureau report estimated at least 2.5 million people were displaced by weather disasters in 2023. The University of Delaware Disaster Research Center – now celebrating its 60th anniversary – found disasters disproportionately affect low-income groups while widening existing inequities.

According to Kevin R. Brinson, Associate State Climatologist at the University of Delaware Center for Environmental Monitoring and Analysis (CEMA), average temperatures are generally increasing and precipitation is also getting more extreme. The intensity of tropical systems is also increasing as sea surface temperatures increase. Sea levels are definitely rising and the rate of rise could accelerate during the 21st century if large ice sheets continue melting in Greenland and Antarctica. Data shows that, on average coastal storms occur most often during March, but also are more likely in other months, such as May, August, September, and December. To check out Delaware climate records, visit the Delaware Climate Office Website. Scientists say it’s possible that climate extremes may become more common in future decades, particularly heat-related ones. Which is why being prepared for extreme weather is more important than ever:

“Our weather isn’t getting less extreme, so preparing for the next storm also prepares us for future extreme events,” Brinson said.

Flooding

Flooding is the most frequent and expensive natural disaster in Delaware and the USA and it can also be deadly. Over a 30-year period, flooding caused more fatalities on average than every other weather event except excessive heat. When a flood is imminent or occurring, the top priority should be the physical safety of family members and pets. Monitor local news and weather reports and sign up for emergency alerts. Have a communication plan ready in the event of a power outage. The best way to protect your home and belongings from flood damage is to buy and maintain home insurance and purchase flood insurance – don’t let your hard work and your family’s future be washed away. Experts recommend the following steps to prepare for a flood:

• Buy and maintain home insurance and get a regular insurance checkup
• Get information on flood insurance at FloodSmart.gov
• Find out your flood risk at the DNREC Flood Planning Tool Website
• Take a household inventory with photos and store important documents

Delaware Sea Grant is partnering with other agencies to host the “2024 Flood Insurance Forum: Fact vs. Fiction? Everything You Need to Know About Flood Risks and Insurance” on April 3, 2024 (in person and virtual) at the Lewes Public Library, from 9 to 11 a.m. For more information, contact Danielle Swallow at dswallow@udel.edu The public can register at www.deseagrant.org/flood-forum

Tornadoes

Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris. Tornadoes are not common in Delaware; however, when they do occur, they can cause serious property damage and threaten human lives. Tornadoes can occur anytime and anywhere, look like funnels and bring intense winds up to 200 miles per hour. Experts recommend the following steps to prepare:

• Because tornadoes come with little or no warning, you should know the signs of a tornado: including a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar like a freight train.
• Sign up for Delaware’s Emergency Notification System at de.gov/dens, download the FEMA mobile app, and enable local alerts for your area. Always follow the advice of state and local officials.
• If your area is under a tornado warning, go to a safe shelter immediately, such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar or a small interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.
• Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
• Do not go under an overpass or bridge. You’re safer in a low, flat location.
• Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.
• Use your arms to protect your head and neck.If you can’t stay at home, make plans to go to a public shelter.

Find DEMA on Social Media: Facebook, X, Instagram, Youtube, Nextdoor

Heavier snow to cause poor visibility this afternoon with roads expected to freeze tonight

SMYRNA, Del. — The Delaware Department of Transportation and Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA)  are issuing a travel advisory for this afternoon and evening due to poor visibility from heavier snowfall and freezing on road surfaces tonight as temperatures drop. The advisory is not an official Level 1 Driving Warning, but is meant to caution motorists of adverse weather conditions and to stay off roads if possible. If driving is necessary, motorists are urged to use caution and common sense.

“DelDOT crews have been working throughout the storm to clear and treat roads across the state, however, falling temperatures and continued snowfall will cause roads and bridges to be icy as the day progresses,” said Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski. “Please slow down and adapt your driving to the conditions if you must be out.”

The National Weather Service is forecasting snowfall rates that cause reduced visibility for motorists and temperatures to drop below freezing tonight. This will create hazardous driving condition across the area. DelDOT crews are working to clear the roadways, but many secondary routes will remain slippery and snow-covered.

Winter Driving and Safety Tips:

1. Make sure that your windshield is completely clear of snow and ice and that you also clear snow off the top of your vehicle and the bed of your pickup trucks.
2. Once on the road, take it slowly. Travel at or below the posted speed limit.
3. Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. If you’re too close, there will not be enough time to react if that person loses control of his vehicle.
4. Turn on headlights so other drivers can see you. It’s Delaware law to use headlights in conditions of poor visibility. Low beams provide better visibility than using high beams.
5. Apply brakes carefully, especially on hills and exit/entrance ramps. Allow for more stopping distance.
6. Bridges and overpasses freeze faster than other road surfaces. There might be ice you cannot see.
7. Pay extra attention when approaching intersections. Watch for cars that don’t have the right of way. Even though you are taking precautions, you need reaction time in case other drivers go through a stop sign or stop light.
8. Wear your seatbelt. If you are involved in a wreck your seatbelt will help you keep control of the vehicle and improve your chances of escaping serious injury or death by nearly 50%.
9. If your vehicle starts to skid, don’t panic. Don’t hit the brakes hard. If your car has anti-lock brakes (ABS), apply steady pressure to the brakes, shift the car or truck into neutral and steer in the direction you want your car to go until the skid is over. If you don’t have ABS, apply pressure to the brakes, just short of locking them up, release the pressure, and then re-apply at a lower level.

   

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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, Title 20,Chapter 31 §3101-3130.

Social Media:

Delaware Department of Transportation on Facebook and X
Delaware Emergency Management Agency on Facebook and X and Instagram

SMYRNA, Del. – The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is rescinding the Level 1 Driving Warning as of Wednesday, January 17 at 7:00 a.m. The warning was issued on Tuesday, January 16 due to the likelihood of icing occurring on roads and bridges statewide overnight. A Level 1 Driving Warning is an advisory against unnecessary travel due to road conditions. Motorists were advised to “exercise extra caution in the operation of their motor vehicle” and “encouraged not to operate a motor vehicle… unless there is a significant safety, health, or business reason to do so.”

Due to an Arctic front overspreading the region, low temperatures were expected to be in the teens in many areas. While DelDOT crews treated roads and bridges overnight, rock salt becomes less effective when temperatures reach 15 degrees Fahrenheit. The National Weather Service reports another system could bring snow to Delaware on Friday.

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

With temperatures forecasted to fall well below freezing tonight, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency has issued a Level 1 Driving Warning statewide for the overnight hours of Tuesday, January 16, 2024, to Wednesday, January 17, 2024, due to the likelihood of icing occurring on roads and bridges statewide tonight. A Level 1 Driving Warning is an advisory against unnecessary travel due to road conditions.

The National Weather Service is advising that an Arctic airmass will overspread southeast Pennsylvania, New Jersey, the eastern shores of Maryland, and Delaware. Temperatures tonight will drop into the single digits and low teens across the region.

While DelDOT crews will continue to treat roads and bridges through the overnight hours, rock salt becomes less effective when temperatures reach 15 degrees Fahrenheit, which many areas of the state may near tonight.

Level 1 Driving Warning Definition: A ‘Level 1 Driving Warning’ shall mean that any person operating a motor vehicle when a Level 1 Driving Warning has been activated shall exercise extra caution in the operation of their motor vehicle. Non-essential employees, regardless of whether employed by a public or private entity, are encouraged not to operate a motor vehicle on the State’s roadways, unless there is a significant safety, health or business reason to do so.

The Level 1 Driving Warning will be publicly rescinded when road conditions allow.