Delaware, the second smallest state in the United States, is located in the Mid-Atlantic region. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and tax-free shopping. However, one question that often comes up is whether or not it snows in Delaware.
The answer is yes, it does snow in Delaware. While the state is not known for heavy snowfall like some of its northern neighbors, it does experience snow during the winter months. The amount of snowfall varies depending on the location in the state. For example, the northern part of Delaware tends to receive more snow than the southern part. Additionally, the amount of snowfall can vary from year to year.
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Climate of Delaware
Overall Climate
Delaware has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The state is located on the Atlantic Ocean and is bordered by the Chesapeake Bay and Delaware Bay. The proximity to these bodies of water has a significant impact on the state’s climate. The ocean and bays help to moderate temperatures, making summers less hot and winters less cold than areas further inland.
Winter Climate
Winter in Delaware is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit. Snow is not uncommon, but it is relatively rare compared to other states in the Northeast. The average snowfall for Delaware is around 20 inches per year, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January and February.
Summer Climate
Summers in Delaware are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the high 80s or low 90s Fahrenheit. The humidity can make the temperature feel even hotter, especially in urban areas. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, and hurricanes and tropical storms can occasionally impact the state.
Overall, Delaware’s climate is influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. The state’s location on the East Coast also means that it is subject to weather patterns that move across the region. Humidity plays a significant role in Delaware’s climate, particularly during the summer months.
Snowfall in Delaware
Annual Snowfall
Delaware is a state that experiences moderate snowfall during the winter season. The average annual snowfall in Delaware is around 20 inches. However, this number can vary depending on the location within the state. The northern region of the state usually receives more snowfall than the southern region.
Snowfall in Cities
The cities in Delaware also experience varying levels of snowfall. Wilmington, the largest city in the state, receives an average of 22 inches of snow annually. Dover, the capital of Delaware, receives an average of 16 inches of snow annually. The coastal cities, such as Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach, receive less snowfall than the inland cities.
Snowfall in January
January is typically the coldest month in Delaware and the month with the highest amount of snowfall. The average snowfall in Delaware during January is around 5 inches. However, this number can vary depending on the year and location within the state.
In summary, Delaware experiences moderate snowfall during the winter season, with an average annual snowfall of around 20 inches. The northern region of the state usually receives more snowfall than the southern region. The amount of snowfall also varies between cities, with Wilmington receiving an average of 22 inches of snow annually and Dover receiving an average of 16 inches of snow annually. January is the month with the highest amount of snowfall in Delaware, with an average snowfall of around 5 inches.
Temperature in Delaware
Delaware has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. The state’s location on the Atlantic coast affects its temperature. The proximity to the ocean brings cooler summers and warmer winters, compared to the inland areas.
Winter Temperatures
Winter temperatures in Delaware can vary significantly, with average temperatures ranging from 26°F (-3°C) to 44°F (7°C). The coldest month is January, with an average low temperature of 23°F (-5°C) and an average high temperature of 41°F (5°C). However, temperatures can occasionally drop below 0°F (-18°C) during the winter months.
Summer Temperatures
Summer temperatures in Delaware are generally warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) to 87°F (31°C). The warmest month is July, with an average high temperature of 87°F (31°C) and an average low temperature of 68°F (20°C). However, temperatures can occasionally reach above 90°F (32°C) during the summer months.
Overall, Delaware has an average annual temperature of 55°F (13°C). The state experiences four distinct seasons, with mild springs, hot summers, cool falls, and cold winters.
Precipitation in Delaware
Delaware has a humid subtropical climate, which means it experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly more rainfall in the summer months.
Rainfall
Delaware receives an average of 45 inches of precipitation per year, with the majority of it falling as rain. The wettest month is typically August, with an average of 4.5 inches of rainfall. The driest month is usually February, with an average of 3 inches of rainfall.
Snow Depth
Although Delaware is not known for heavy snowfall, it does receive some snow during the winter months. The average snowfall in Delaware ranges from 10 to 20 inches per year, with the highest snowfall amounts occurring in the northern part of the state. The snow depth in Delaware typically ranges from 1 to 6 inches.
Overall, Delaware experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with slightly more rainfall in the summer months and some snowfall during the winter months.
Delaware’s Geographic Impact on Snow
Land Area
Delaware is the second smallest state in the United States, with a total land area of approximately 1,948 square miles. Due to its small size, Delaware’s climate is heavily influenced by its surrounding geographic features. The state is located on the Atlantic coast, making it vulnerable to coastal flooding and other weather events.
Water Bodies
Delaware is home to several water bodies, including the Delaware Bay, which is an estuary that serves as an important habitat for various species of fish and birds. The Chesapeake and Delaware Canal also runs through the state, connecting the Chesapeake Bay to the Delaware River. These water bodies can have an impact on snowfall in Delaware, as they can affect the temperature and moisture levels in the surrounding areas.
Transition Zone
Delaware is located in the transition zone between the humid subtropical climate of the south and the continental climate of the north. This means that the state experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, including snowfall. However, due to its proximity to the ocean, snowfall in Delaware is often limited and sporadic.
Overall, Delaware’s geography plays a significant role in determining its snowfall patterns. While the state does receive some snowfall each year, it is generally limited and infrequent. Coastal flooding is a greater concern for the state, particularly in southern Delaware where the risk is highest.
Snowfall by Month
Delaware experiences snowfall during the winter months, which typically lasts from December to March. Snowfall amounts vary from year to year, with some winters being mild and others being more severe.
Snowiest Month
February is typically the snowiest month in Delaware, with an average snowfall of 6.5 inches. However, snowfall amounts can vary greatly from year to year, and it is not uncommon for other months to have higher snowfall amounts.
Wettest Month
In terms of precipitation, March is typically the wettest month in Delaware. This can result in a mix of rain and snow, depending on the temperature. The average precipitation in March is around 4 inches.
Driest Month
December is typically the driest month in Delaware, with an average precipitation of around 3 inches. However, this does not necessarily mean that there will be no snowfall during this month.
Overall, Delaware experiences moderate snowfall during the winter months, with February being the snowiest month on average. It is important to note that snowfall amounts can vary greatly from year to year, and it is always best to be prepared for winter weather conditions.
Tourist Spots During Snowfall
Delaware is not known for heavy snowfall, but when it does snow, it can create a beautiful winter wonderland. Here are some tourist spots to visit during snowfall:
Wilmington
Wilmington is a great place to visit during snowfall. The city has many parks and outdoor spaces that are perfect for snowball fights, sledding, and building snowmen. The Brandywine Zoo is also a great place to visit during the winter months.
Dover
Dover is the capital of Delaware and has many attractions that are worth visiting during snowfall. The Dover International Speedway is a popular destination for racing enthusiasts, and the Dover Downs Hotel and Casino is a great place to stay warm and cozy.
Lewes
Lewes is a charming coastal town that is worth visiting during any season. During snowfall, the town takes on a magical quality. The Lewes Historical Society is a great place to learn about the town’s history, and the Cape Henlopen State Park is a beautiful place to take a winter hike.
Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth Beach is a popular tourist destination during the summer months, but it is also a great place to visit during snowfall. The boardwalk is a beautiful place to take a winter stroll, and the many shops and restaurants in the area are perfect for warming up.
Brandywine Creek State Park
Brandywine Creek State Park is a beautiful place to visit during any season, but it is especially stunning during snowfall. The park has many trails that are perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Hagley Museum and Library
The Hagley Museum and Library is a great place to learn about Delaware’s industrial history. During snowfall, the museum takes on a magical quality, and the many exhibits and displays are perfect for a winter day trip.
While Delaware’s winters are mild, snowfall can still create a beautiful winter wonderland. These tourist spots are perfect for enjoying the snow and making the most of the winter season.