Townsend

WEATHER ADVISORY: Potential Major Storm January 9-10, 2024

A potential major storm is expected to affect our region tomorrow, 1/9/24 afternoon through Wednesday 1/10/24.  Please stay up to date on the developing storm and note the following:

with an extended period of moderate to heavy rain and possibly even some thunderstorms Tuesday night. At the immediate coast, peak wind gusts to 65 mph are possible with even 60 mph gusts possible for a time a little farther inland. We are expecting upper moderate to lower major coastal flooding. Updated Briefings can be found at https://www.weather.gov/media/phi/current_briefing.pdf

Key Points:

• Flooding:
  • Flood Watch in effect from 1pm Tuesday till 6pm Wednesday
  • Flood threat #1: 2-3” of rain will fall across already saturated grounds causing small streams and creeks to flood quickly Tuesday Evening and Night.
  • Flood threat #2: Strong Southerly wind will push a wall of water up the bay/river and cause significant coastal flooding.  Current estimates for Reedy Point is 9.0’ at the 10am Wednesday High Tide which is right at Major flood stage and on par with what we received during the Halloween storm of 2021.
  • Flood threat #3: Runoff from rains and snowmelt in Pennsylvania will make it down into the larger streams and rivers (Christina, Brandywine and the Clays) causing possible additional flooding Wednesday Morning and Afternoon, along with high tide levels could cause additional issues with backup from the Marsh.
• Winds:
  • Winds pick up Tuesday afternoon and would expect a Wind Advisory or High Wind Watch/Warning to be issued as we get closer to Tuesday Night with winds gusting up to 65mph, especially if we receive thunderstorms and the winds are able to mix down to the surface.
  • Strong winds along with saturated grounds could cause widespread power outages.

Preparedness Tips:

• Avoid Crossing Floodwaters: It’s imperative not to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. A mere six inches of moving water can topple you, while a foot of water can displace your vehicle.
• Procure Emergency Supplies: Ensure that you have an ample supply of non-perishable food and water. Aim to have at least one gallon of water per person and pet for a minimum of three days.
• Know Your Evacuation Plan: If you reside in a flood-prone area, have an evacuation plan ready. Prepare a small bag with essential items, familiarize yourself with evacuation zones and routes, and have a designated place to go.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Fasten any loose items outside your home, such as garbage bins, garden furniture, and other potential projectiles.
• Stay Indoors: Avoid venturing outside unless absolutely necessary. If you must go out, steer clear from parking or walking under trees and overpasses.
• Keep Devices Charged: Maintain a full charge on your mobile phones and other electronic devices in anticipation of potential power cuts.
• Maintain Communication: Have a battery-powered radio on hand for updates on the situation. Register for emergency alerts at Smart911.com, and opt in to receive emergency notifications from the state of Delaware and NCC.