Update - Tropical Storm Ophelia:  What to expect, weekend timeline for coastal Delmarva

The National Weather Service has provided an update regarding Tropical Storm Ophelia

Overall, the forecast remains on track with the coastal storm/Tropical Storm Ophelia and impacts to our region remain relatively unchanged.

1 - A coastal storm will impact our region this weekend, starting Friday (9/22/23) and lasting through Sunday (9/24/2023). The most significant impacts will be to areas along the immediate coast on Saturday, in the form of coastal flooding and strong winds, along with periods of heavy rain.

2 – MODERATE coastal flooding is possible along most of the Delaware and New Jersey coasts with the highest water levels during the afternoon / evening high tides today – Saturday (09/23/2023), however could linger into following high tide cycles on Sunday (09/24/2023).  Some local spots in southern Delaware and far southern New Jersey could near major flooding.

3 – Damaging winds mainly along the coast could result in some downed trees and power lines and therefore scattered power outages.  For marine interests, dangerous winds and seas for all vessels.

4 - Periods of heavy rain at times through the weekend could lead to localized urban and small streaming flooding.  The heaviest periods possible Saturday morning, and again later in the day. 2 to 3 inches of rain may fall across much of the region. However, with most of this falling over an extended period, the threat for flooding should be limited to the localized urban and small-stream variety in poor drainage areas.

Additional information and resources may be located at:

Delaware Emergency Management Agency - https://dema.delaware.gov/emergencyPrep/index.shtml

Make a Plan - https://preparede.org/make-a-plan

Build a Kit - https://preparede.org/build-a-kit

Stay Informed - https://preparede.org/stay-informed

Resources - https://preparede.org/resources