Who says a rainy day can’t be a fun day at the Delaware coast?
It is a perfect excuse to visit the outlets, tour the Fort Miles Museum, or order a batch of steamed crabs to go. But sometimes Mother Nature throws a wrench in our plans during hurricane season. Whether or not Delaware experiences a direct hit from a tropical system or the remnants of one, it is not unusual for us to experience impacts from flooding and storm surge, high winds, heavy rain, rip currents, or severe thunderstorms that carry the threat of tornados. If severe weather is forecasted and you cannot reschedule your plans for another weekend, consider these tips for staying safe:
Monitor Emergency Notifications
Authorities will communicate through the media, text alerts, and government websites. Residents can register cell numbers with the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS). Landlines are already registered.
Safeguard Your Property
Stow outside furniture, umbrellas, kayaks, and toys. Trim overhead branches, and clean debris out of gutters.
Know Where to Shelter
If flooding is imminent, get to higher floors and avoid walking or driving through floods. In the case of a tornado warning, shelter in basements or the lowest floor away from windows. If you are staying in a manufactured home or R/V, identify a brick and mortar building you can access and get as far away from windows as possible.
Have an Evacuation Plan
Look up if you are in an evacuation zone at preparede.org/know-your-zone/. Always heed evacuation notices and take your pets with you. Identify an out of town relative to stay with and use shelters as a last resort.
Pack an Emergency Supply Kit
Whether sheltering in place or evacuating, always have essentials including food, water, prescription medication, and identification.
Keep Your Cell Phone Charged
Invest in a power bank or solar charger.
Don’t Be a Tourist
Monster waves may be cool but skip the beach and outdoors when there is heavy surf or lightning.
Check in On Neighbors
Help older adults, individuals with disabilities, or others with making a plan to stay safe.
Did you know?
September 10 is the official peak of hurricane season, with most activity occurring mid-August to mid-October.
The Delmarva peninsula is surrounded by water on three sides and has a low average elevation, making it vulnerable to storm surge and flooding.
Typical homeowner and rental insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Buy supplemental flood insurance if you are at risk of flooding.
Register for the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS) at www.smart911.com.
Danielle is a certified climate change professional with Delaware Sea Grant (www.deseagrant.org). Delaware Sea Grant utilizes research, education, and extension work in support of resilient communities, economies, and coastal resources. Danielle provides technical assistance and outreach to communities on emergency preparedness and building resilience to weather and climate hazards. She is co-founder of the Resilient and Sustainable Communities League (RASCL – www.derascl.org) and loves hiking the Gordons Pond Trail in Cape Henlopen State Park.
