For Immediate Release:

January 26, 2026

Driving Restrictions For Delaware Downgraded Effective 10am

(SMYRNA, Del.) – Governor Matthew Meyer has announced the following changes to driving restrictions in the state of Delaware effective10:00 a.m.:

• Kent and New Castle Counties downgraded from a Level 2 Driving Restriction to a Level 1 Driving Warning – Avoid traveling on roadways, unless there is a significant safety, health, or business reason to do so. All motorists are urged to drive with extreme caution.

• Sussex County Level 1 Driving Warning has been lifted

All residents are urged to use good judgement and extreme caution when travel is unavoidable. As Winter Storm Fern transitions to sleet and freezing rain in some areas, Delawareans will encounter ice accumulation. The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) continues working to clear the roads; however, motorists should remain vigilant about dangerous road conditions including black ice.

Temperatures are expected to remain below freezing all week and, in some cases, will drop to single digits overnight to prolong dangerous travel conditions. Follow DelDOT’s traffic advisory radio stations, WTMC, for streaming updates from WTMC Radio 1380AM and 98.5 FM. Listen to WTMC through the DelDOT app which provides real-time updates on roadway and transit conditions. For disabled vehicles on Delaware roads, call 302-659-4600 or 800-324-8379 to reach the Delaware Department of Transportation (DELDOT) Transportation Management Center (TMC). For general information, call 302-760-2080 or 800-652-5600. Visit the National Weather Service’s NWS) Winter Weather Dashboard for winter weather conditions in the three-state region that includes Delaware.

Code Purple Shelters remain open, 24 hours statewide, to provide emergency safe, warm overnight refuge, meals, and resources. The shelters can be contacted as follows:

• New Castle County – 302-652-8033
• Kent County – 1-800-733-6816
• Sussex County – 302-519-0024
• Or call 211

Sign up for the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS) at de.gov/dens for updates on hazardous conditions. Visit PrepareDE.org for additional information on winterizing home and vehicles.

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

Contact: Rachel Hayes

O: (302) 884-2204 or (302) 443-4064

Email: rachel.hayes@delaware.gov

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