A bomb cyclone may develop this weekend. How will it impact Delaware?

Delaware will need to start shoveling again this weekend, especially in Sussex County.

A nor’easter will start moving up the coast late this week and interact with the cold air hitting the eastern part of the country, potentially causing a bomb cyclone. The storm, named Winter Storm Gianna by The Weather Channel, is still hard to predict as specific details remain uncertain.

According to the National Weather Service’s 4 p.m. update, there is confidence a coastal storm will impact parts of Delaware this upcoming weekend with strong winds and coastal flooding. However, it’s still too early to determine other impacts such as snowfall.

Delaware snow forecasts

Here’s a look at the range of snow forecasts for Delaware this weekend.

• National Weather Service: The forecast is calling for snow starting Saturday, Jan. 31, in Sussex County and continuing through Sunday. The chance of getting 4 inches of snow in Sussex County is 50% to 60%. The chance of getting 4 inches of snow in Kent County is 40% to 50%, and the chance of getting 4 inches of snow in New Castle County is 40%.
• AccuWeather: The forecast is calling for snow to start in the First State at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, and run until 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1. Sussex County is expected to get 6 to 10 inches of snow. Kent County is expected to get 3 to 6 inches of snow. New Castle County is expected to get 1 to 3 inches of snow.
• The Weather Channel: The forecast is calling for the snow to mostly miss Delaware. Georgetown is expected to receive 2 to 6 inches from Saturday, Jan. 31, to Sunday, Feb. 1. Dover is expected to receive less than an inch, and Wilmington is expected to see a few flurries.
• Apple app: The forecast is calling for 2 to 3 inches of snow on Sunday, Feb. 1, in Sussex County.

What is a bomb cyclone?

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a bombogenesis, or bomb cyclone, is a mid-latitude cyclone that rapidly or explosively intensifies over a 24-hour period. The storm’s central pressure usually has to drop 24 millibars in 24 hours.

Also known as a winter hurricane, the storm is capable of producing blizzard conditions, heavy rains and strong winds.

Delaware weather: ‘Bitterly cold’ temps preserve ice, snow – and school snow days

What is a nor’easter?

According to the National Weather Service, a nor’easter is a strong low-pressure system that affects the Mid-Atlantic and New England states. They produce heavy snow, rain, and tremendous waves that can cause beach erosion and structural damage. Wind gusts associated with these storms can exceed hurricane-force intensity.

A nor’easter gets its name from the northeasterly winds blowing in from the ocean.

How to prepare for winter weather

Here are a few tips to prepare for the cold weather.

• Stock up on snow removal supplies. Add rock salt or ice melt, space heaters and snow shovels to your snow preparation arsenal.
• Make sure your snowblower is working. There’s nothing worse than having heavy snow and finding out your snowblower isn’t working. Before the storm hits, do a test run or take it in for a tune-up.
• Clean the gutters. Remove all dead leaves and other debris so that your gutters can do what they’re intended to do – collect water from the roof and channel it down to the ground.
• Inspect the roof. Repair or replace any damaged shingles or hire someone to do it for you.
• Trim tree branches. Cut or trim back any trees that are close to your house.
• Add more insulation. Call in a pro to check your insulation and add more where necessary.
• Seal up cracks. Inspect doors and windows for drafts and seal up any openings to avoid the loss of heat and warm air.
• Insulate your pipes. Frozen pipes can burst, flooding your home and yard.