Sunday morning, Milford area residents woke to a blanket of fresh snow from a winter storm that had been predicted for more than a week. Although the area did not get the foot of snow that was possible with this storm, many areas saw 6 to 8 inches before the snow turned to sleet, then to freezing rain before changing to all rain in the afternoon. Temperatures rose from the mid-20s to around 35 degrees by 4 PM, leading to the change from snow to rain.
Around 4 PM, local weather forecasters were watching a freezing rain and rain line as it crept northward across Sussex County. There was concern that the line could stall which would lead to extended periods of freezing rain for northern Sussex and Kent County.
Despite the freezing rain and sleet that developed later in the afternoon, children and adults got outside to build snowmen, go for sleigh rides and enjoy the winter weather. Recommendations were to shovel the snow as it was falling as it would be a very light, powdery snow until the temperature rose slightly. The rain and sleet made the snow much heavier and harder to shovel.
Kent County issued a Level 2 driving restriction, but DelDOT warned Milfordians that just because the dividing line was the Mispillion River, that did not mean roads in Sussex were safer. They asked that everyone remain home unless they absolutely had to go out no matter which side of the river they were on.
At 4 PM, Governor Matt Meyer issued Level 1 Driving Restrictions throughout the state.
“Drivers are strongly discouraged from beig on the roads unless there is a significant, safety, health or business need,” a social media post from his office said. Level 1 restrictions are the least restrictive and simply encourage drivers to use extra caution on the roads.
Code Purple Shelters are open during the storm. To learn where shelters are in each county, call 2-1-1 or, in New Castle County, call 302-652-8033; in Kent County call 1-800-733-6816; Sussex County call 302-519-0024.
Snow operations were in full force with DelDOT and City of Milford crews working diligently to keep roadways manageable for first responders and essential services. Although the rain cleared snow from roads, it also created a slushy mess that was expected to freeze overnight. Temperatures are not expected to be above 30 for the next few days which means the snow and ice is not expected to melt.
Milford School District will be closed for all students and non-essential employees tomorrow, January 26, 2026. All non-essential employees should reference the District’s School Closure Outline for further instructions. All essential employees should report as directed. Please be advised that the January School Board public meeting scheduled for tomorrow night is canceled.
