Delaware

Second-worst drought in Delaware history prompts state to discourage burning

Published

9 months ago

March 18, 2025

Second-worst drought in Delaware history prompts state to discourage burning

During the four-month period from November through February, Delaware had a total of 420 outdoor fires, with forest crews handling 15 of those.

Most ignited downstate in rural western Kent and Sussex counties, said Jay Jones, who heads the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association.

Though only a small percentage needed the forest service’s intervention, Jones shares the Forest Service’s concerns since most were started from unattended outdoor burning of trash, construction material and leaves.

“That stuff should not be burned at any time,” Jones said.

File – Members of Delaware’s forest service tackle a blaze. (State of Delaware)

State climatologist Kevin Brinson said forestry officials aren’t exaggerating about the drought.

During the six months that ended in February, Delaware had 9.81 inches of rain. That’s less than half of normal rainfall for the period — 21.17 inches — and the second-driest September-through-February period “in our 130 years of observations in Delaware,” Brinson said.

The normal rainfall for an entire year in Delaware is 46 inches, Brinson said. But last year only 37 inches fell, the 18th lowest in recorded history.

While the kinds of devastating wildfires southern California and, to a lesser extent, the Carolinas have already experienced this year aren’t foreseen in tiny Delaware, the concern is elevated this year, in large part because a wet spring isn’t in the forecast.

Hoyd says that even with some recent rainfall as winter comes to an end, Delaware’s dormant grass, brush and trees cannot absorb the water that they do later in spring, “when green-up and growth occur.” That has created a situation where grass, leaf litter and pine needles can easily combust.

Jones doesn’t fear widespread devastating fires, but issued a reminder that during a drought like Delaware is experiencing, the risk intensifies in windy conditions.

“A fire will walk and go quickly,” Jones said. “It takes some time to get our people on scene with the equipment. A small [3-foot-by-3-foot] fire can very easily walk within a matter of minutes to 4, 5, 10 acres.”

Topper said his team is on call around the clock but should be expanded and equipment upgraded “if this is the new norm.”

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Delaware

Man, 77, dies after collision with teen driver near Hartly, police say

Published

12 hours ago

December 11, 2025

Press Room

Man, 77, dies after collision with teen driver near Hartly, police say

A 77-year-old man died following a two-car crash near Hartly on the morning of Dec. 10, Delaware State Police said.

The man, from the Dover area, has not been identified by police pending family notification.

According to police reports, the man was driving a Honda Accord east on Judith Road approaching Hartly Road about 9 a.m., as an 18-year-old woman was driving a Ford Focus south on Hartly Road approaching Judith Road.

Police reported that a preliminary investigation shows the Honda moved from the stop sign into the Ford’s path, causing a collision.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman, from Hartly, was treated at the scene. Police said she refused to be taken to a hospital.

Send tips or story ideas to Esteban Parra at (302) 324-2299 or eparra@delawareonline.com.

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Delaware

Delaware County approves 19% property tax hike in 4-1 vote

Published

24 hours ago

December 11, 2025

Press Room

Delaware County approves 19% property tax hike in 4-1 vote

MEDIA, Pa. (WPVI) — Delaware County Council voted 4-1 Wednesday night to approve a budget that includes a 19% property tax increase, despite objections from residents.

Property owners with a home assessed at $255,000 will pay about $188 more annually under the new budget, which takes effect next month.

Before the vote, some residents urged council to reconsider.

“I ask council to revisit the proposed budget, forgo voting tonight, avoid solving the entire deficit on the back of the hardworking taxpayers,” said Cynthia Sabitini of Upper Providence Township.

One councilmember agreed, but most did not.

“Simply put, I feel that the increase is too drastic,” said Councilmember Elaine Paul Schaefer.

“This needs to occur. I don’t like it, but it’s what has to occur,” said Councilmember Kevin Madden.

The hike follows a 23% increase last year and a 5% increase the year before. County officials say tax hikes were minimal for a decade, forcing steep increases now.

The current all-Democratic council argues they’re righting the financial ship after past Republican leaders didn’t do enough.

“For the first time in more than a decade, this budget puts Delaware County on track to have a truly balanced budget,” said Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor.

County leaders say the increase addresses a structural deficit, but opponents blame spending on projects such as de-privatizing George Hill Correctional Center and creating a health department.

“How do you justify coming in with a deficit and then saying you’re repairing it after you grew it?” said Michael Straw of Media Borough Republicans.

Officials say future hikes should be minimal if the county makes any request at all, but some remain skeptical.

“I have my doubts that we won’t be seeing increases in the future,” Straw said.

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Delaware

Man in custody after reported threat near Kroger in Delaware County

Published

2 days ago

December 10, 2025

Press Room

Man in custody after reported threat near Kroger in Delaware County

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Reports of a potential threat near a Kroger store on Route 23 by Walmart shopping center in Delaware County quickly spread on social media Tuesday evening, with residents posting about an active shooter and sharing updates on neighborhood pages. Many in the community expressed fear and concern as the posts circulated.

Delaware City Police confirmed the suspect, who had made threats to harm himself, is now in custody. Police Chief Adam Moore told ABC 6 that there was no shooting, and the situation was safely contained. Patrons at nearby stores were temporarily asked to shelter in place as a precaution.

Officials say the area is now safe, and residents are being urged to rely on verified information from authorities.

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