Hurricane tops the risk list, and FEMA has declared Delaware a disaster area 26 times since 1953. Here's what to prepare for — and how.
Delaware sits at the intersection of mid-Atlantic coastal exposure and inland weather corridors, making it consistently vulnerable to hurricanes, flooding, and winter storms — each rated at medium risk and each backed by a long record of federal disaster declarations. The state's low elevation, extensive tidal shoreline along Delaware Bay and the Atlantic coast, and position within the northeast storm track explain why FEMA has issued 26 disaster declarations for the First State, including 10 hurricane-related major declarations. Hurricane Floyd in 1999 drove significant coastal flooding and forced evacuations across Sussex and New Castle counties. Superstorm Sandy in 2012 battered the Delaware coast, damaging homes in Rehoboth Beach and Lewes and disrupting the Cape May–Lewes Ferry corridor for days. On the winter side, the Blizzard of 1996 buried much of the state under record snowfall, paralyzing roads and stranding residents for days — one of five snowstorm declarations on Delaware's federal record. Most recently, a severe winter storm in 2026 added to that tally, a reminder that cold-season threats remain active. For residents, this history carries a clear message: preparedness must span all seasons. Coastal communities need surge and flood plans year-round, while inland households must stock supplies for ice storms that can knock out power for extended periods. Building a go-bag, knowing evacuation routes, and registering for the state's alert system are practical first steps grounded in Delaware's real and recurring hazard history.
Hurricanes bring storm surge, wind damage, and flooding that can cut off evacuation routes.
Flooding is the most common US disaster — just 6 inches of moving water can knock a person down.
Extended winter storms knock out power for days — prepare to survive without heat.
Severe thunderstorms and flash flooding along the Brandywine and Christina River corridors pose the greatest recurring threat to urban and suburban areas here.
Inland flooding from prolonged rainfall and the impacts of landfalling or weakened tropical systems tracking up the Delmarva Peninsula are the primary concerns for this agricultural flatland region.
Hurricane storm surge, coastal erosion, and tidal flooding make this barrier-beach and bay-front area the most hurricane-vulnerable part of the state.
Slower-draining soils and proximity to tidal tributaries leave inland Sussex communities at elevated risk for prolonged flooding following tropical and severe storm events.
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The state's official emergency management agency — alerts, shelter info, and disaster assistance.
Delaware residents can register for the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS) through DEMA's website to receive location-specific warnings by phone, text, or email during emergencies.
What natural disasters is Delaware most at risk for?
Delaware faces medium-rated risk from hurricanes, flooding, and winter storms. Its low coastal elevation and position along the mid-Atlantic storm track make all three recurring threats. FEMA records show hurricanes account for the largest share of Delaware's major disaster declarations, followed by snowstorms and severe storms.
How do I receive emergency alerts in Delaware?
Delaware uses the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS) to send official alerts via phone, text, and email. Residents should register their contact information at the Delaware Emergency Management Agency's website to ensure they receive warnings for their specific address, especially for coastal evacuation orders.
Which parts of Delaware face the greatest hurricane and flooding risk?
Sussex County's Atlantic coastline and Delaware Bay shoreline are most exposed to hurricane storm surge and coastal flooding. Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, and Bethany Beach have recorded significant damage in past storms, including Superstorm Sandy in 2012. Inland river corridors in New Castle and Kent counties also flood during and after tropical systems.
What should Delaware residents keep in a home emergency kit?
FEMA and Delaware Emergency Management Agency guidance recommends at least 72 hours of supplies: water (one gallon per person per day), non-perishable food, flashlights, a battery or hand-crank radio, medications, copies of important documents, and warm clothing — particularly important given Delaware's history of debilitating winter storms.
Knowing your risks is step one. Two minutes with the readiness quiz tells you exactly where your preparation stands — and the free guide walks you through closing the gaps.