Delaware braces for second winter storm

244
DELDOT photo.
Advertisement

Delmarva Power and the Delaware Department of Transportation are bracing for the second of this one-two severe weather punch expected overnight and into tomorrow.

A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the region.

 On Tuesday, employees worked to restore service for the final customers who remained without power due to Winter Storm Riley and complete critical repairs to the local energy grid.

Delmarva Power’s Emergency Response Organization remains activated as crews worked throughout the day to finish repairs to utility poles, cross arms, power lines and other equipment in advance of Winter Storm Quinn. The company also is preparing for the winter storm with enhanced staffing in its call center, dispatch centers and in the field to respond to customer needs.

“We understand that the last few days have been difficult for our customers, especially those in the northern portion of our service area where we experienced the most severe damage,” said Gary Stockbridge, Delmarva Power region president. “I want to thank our customers for their patience and understanding during this time and thank our crews and contractors who have worked around the clock since Friday to bring every customer back online.”

Advertisement

Winter Storm Riley inflicted heavy damage along the East Coast beginning last Friday. Strengthening significantly beyond forecasts, the storm delivered high sustained winds and gusts through the 70-mph-range for more than 48 hours. Utilities from Mid-Atlantic to New England reported more than 2.6 million power outages at one point. 

  The company’s greatest concern with Winter Storm Quinn is the potential for heavy, wet snow, which can stick to tree limbs and aerial power lines. An accumulation of wet snow could coat tree branches bringing them down into power lines and causing service interruptions for customers. Strong winds are also expected.

Delaware  Department of Transportation officials are monitoring the storm.

With the lower temperatures, drivers should use caution on bridges, ramps, and overpasses as they freeze more quickly.

Motorists should be aware of snowplows that may be slowing down, stopping, or pulling over. DelDOT’s snowplows and trucks may travel over centerlines or along shoulders to improve road conditions,  a DelDOT release stated.

 

Advertisement
Advertisement