Delaware digs out, bitter cold sticks around

The snow has stopped falling and statewide winter weather advisories have expired.

According to the Delaware’s real-time environmental monitoring system, Sussex County was hardest hit, with the highest measured amount, 6.3 inches, near Georgetown and measurements of 5.9 inches in Laurel and Ellendale. Dover checked in with 4.0 inches of snow. New Castle County, by comparison, got off easy. The North Wilmington area received 3.6 inches of snow, Hockessin came in with 2.9 inches and Newark reported the least amount of snow, 2.4 inches.

Both public and private schools up and down the state have canceled classes today, giving students an even longer weekend following the Presidents Day holiday. A complete list can be found at http://schoolclosings.delaware.gov/

Governor Jack Markell ordered State of Delaware offices closed today. Government offices are also closed today in all three counties, as well as in the cities of Wilmington, Newark, and Dover.

Deep freeze continues

The arctic-cold temps, unfortunately, are expected to stick around this week. The National Weather Service is forecasting possible record-low temperatures nearing zero across Delaware on Thursday into Friday.

Consequently, Code Purple declarations have been extended in New Castle County, with the likelihood that they will be extended across the state into next week.

The Salvation Army has extended its Code Purple declaration for New Castle County to include Wednesday and Thursday nights, with the possibility of an extension beyond that.

The volunteer-organized and volunteer-run Code Purple sites in houses of worship and community centers provide a sanctuary during sub-freezing temperatures for people who are homeless.

“The sustained low temperatures across our state are a danger to anyone who is outside for an extended period,” Gov. Jack Markell said. “I commend the volunteers who are sustaining the Code Purple sites across our state as they offer a warm and safe place for people who have nowhere else to go.”

To be connected to Code Purple resources, call Delaware 2-1-1, or search for “Code Purple” on the Delaware 2-1-1 mobile app or on its website at www.delaware211.org.