Storm threatens Delaware rooftops

Excessive snow is causing damage to roofs on homes, businesses and other structures throughout Delaware.

And state emergency officials fear more damage is imminent.

Officials say heavy snow has caused the cafeteria roof at West Seaford Elementary School to collapse. Officials say there were no injuries.

There has also been a partial roof collapse at the Townsend Fire Department. As a result, trucks and other equipment have been moved to nearby fire stations.

In addition, there have been reports of a barn collapse in Sussex County and damage to many minor structures, such as porches and carports.

But officials are worried the worst is yet to come.

The concern is that rooftops — especially flat roofs — won't be able to support the weight of all the snow, sleet and ice from back-to-back blizzards.

"The weight is really causing a problem," said Delaware Emergency Management Agency spokesperson Andrea Summers. "It's causing roofs to collapse."

And while emergency officials are advising people to clear their roofs, they're telling them to wait until after the storm. They're also recommending they get professional help.

"At this point, during the storm, there really is no safe way to clear your roof," Summers said. "If you haven't cleared it now, you probably are gonna have to wait until the storm subsides. And after the storm is over we really recommend that you hire a professionally licensed contractor to take all the snow off — especially if you have a flat roof."

Summers says if your roof collapses — or if you lose power — and you need help or shelter, call the Delaware Helpline at 1-800-464-4357.