State braces for yet another winter wallop

Emergency agencies in Delaware are urging residents to prepare for another snowstorm early Thursday morning through Friday.

Snow accumulation is expected to reach 8 to 12 inches, according to the National Weather Service. 

Rosanne Pack, spokeswoman for the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, said in a statement that residents should be aware of weather conditions in their area and follow all travel recommendations.

Roads are likely to be covered in snow or slush on Thursday morning, so residents that must travel should allow themselves additional time and drive more slowly than usual, officials say.

"Everyone in Delaware should consider themselves members of the preparedness and response team," Pack said. "Check your own emergency supplies of food, water and batteries. Have a plan for a destination for you and your pets if you lose power and have to evacuate."

Strong winds are expected Thursday morning into Friday.  Residents should watch out for blowing and drifting snow, as well as downed trees and wires, Pack said.

State agencies are taking practical measures in anticipation of the storm.  The Delaware Department of Transportation spent Wednesday making sure its 460 pieces of equipment were operational and were stockpiling salt, sand and fuel. DelDOT crews also worked to patch up potholes that have sprung out of the recent severe weather conditions.

"Overall we're in good shape, considering what we've been through this winter," Mark Alexander, district engineer of southern New Castle County for DelDOT, said in a statement.

The Delaware State Police and Delaware National Guard are also organizing forces in case they are called in to help during the storm.