Modification of Declaration of State of Emergency Implementing Level 2 Driving Restrictions in Kent and Sussex Counties

WHEREAS, in connection with the imminent danger posed by a severe winter storm I issued an Executive Order at 11:00 a.m. on February 22, 2026 declaring a statewide State of Emergency; and

WHEREAS, the severe winter storm includes continuous heavy snowfall with accumulations of up and strong gusting winds, resulting in significantly decreased visibility and other dangerous road hazards that make driving dangerous statewide, but especially at this time in Kent and Sussex Counties; and

WHEREAS, the effects of this storm threaten public safety; and

WHEREAS, the hazardous weather conditions will likely continue to create dangerous and potentially life-threatening road conditions; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, MATTHEW MEYER, pursuant to Title 20, Chapter 31 of the Delaware Code, do hereby declare that the previously issued executive order shall remain in effect until further notice, with the following modification:

1. As of Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 9:00 p.m. E.S.T., and until further notice, a Level 2 Driving Restriction is in effect Kent and Sussex Counties. No person may operate a motor vehicle on Delaware roadways, except for persons designated as “essential personnel.” Under Delaware law, the term “essential personnel” means employees or personnel who are necessary (1) to maintain the core functions of government, and (2) to maintain the health and safety of the people of Delaware. The following persons are specifically designated as “essential personnel” under Delaware law: operators of snow removal equipment (public and private); persons providing public utility services; persons providing healthcare services; and persons providing food and fuel deliveries. State and local officials are directed to remove abandoned vehicles from roads in affected areas at the expense of the vehicle owner.
2. Based on the severity of conditions in any given area within this State, I authorize the Delaware Department of Transportation and the Delaware State Police, in consultation with DEMA and the Secretary of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, to activate with my consent a Level 2 Driving Restriction or Level 3 Driving Ban limiting the use or operation of motor vehicles.
3. Except as set forth above, all provisions of the previously issued Executive Order shall remain in effect.