State Of Emergency Declared In Delaware

WILMINGTON, Del. (CBS) – A State of Emergency and Level 1 Driving Warning remain in effect for the entire State of Delaware, declared at 2 p.m. by Governor Jack Markell.

A "Level 1 Driving Warning" means that anyone operating a vehicle should exercise extra caution. Nonessential employees, regardless of whether they're employed by a public or private entity, are encouraged not to operate a vehicle on the State's roadways when a this warning has been activated, unless there is a significant safety, health or business reason to do so.

Additionally, all State of Delaware offices were closed at noon, with all non-essential employees urged to leave. Those who work other shifts were told not to report for work.

The Governor's office released a statement on the weather conditions:

"Snow has begun falling throughout most of the state and significant snowfall totals are expected. DelDOT crews are actively working to clear primary roads and will continue to do so. We strongly encourage drivers who do not need to travel to delay or refrain from going on the roads to give DelDOT plows time and ability to work. If you don't need to be driving, stay home until roads are cleared. State offices will close at noon because road conditions are expected to deteriorate as the storm continues to move across the State. Other employers should evaluate the status of road conditions in their vicinity."

The Delaware Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated at noon, and Governor Markell has issued a verbal authorization permitting the Delaware Guard to take responsive and precautionary actions directed by the director of the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), in consultation with Department of Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Louis Schiliro, upon request by local authorities.

In New Castle County, the Winter Storm Warning continues in effect until 6 a.m. Wednesday morning, while the Wind Chill Advisory will be effective from 1 a.m. until 11 a.m. Wednesday.

For Kent and Sussex Counties, the Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 6 a.m. Wednesday, while the Wind Chill Advisory will be effective from 1 a.m. until 11 a.m. Wednesday.

The speed limit on Interstate 495 has been reduced to 45 MPH.

In Kent County, major roads are covered with snow, ice and slush, with heavy snow falling at times.

Major roads in Sussex County are generally reported to be wet with light snow, and a minimal accumulation so far.

All bridges are open, but the speed limit on the Delaware Memorial Bridge has been lowered to 30 MPH.

There have not been any reports of widespread power outages in the state, however residents should be prepared in the event that high winds and snow accumulations bring down power lines.

All school districts in Delaware will be closed on Wednesday.