As the recent blizzard reminded Delawareans, the First State is not immune to severe weather. 

To examine some of the key severe weather events in Delaware's history, along with trends that will shape the future weather in the state, Delaware Sea Grant, the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), and the University of Delaware's Center for Environmental Monitoring and Analysis (CEMA) will hold a severe weather awareness event titled “Then and Now: Navigating Delaware’s Evolving Severe Weather Landscape.” 

The event will be held from 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, in room 104 of the Harry L. Cannon Marine Studies Laboratory, located on UD’s Hugh R. Sharp Campus in Lewes, and is being held during Severe Weather Awareness Week, which runs this year from March 9-13.

Danielle Swallow, coastal hazards specialist with Delaware Sea Grant, said the event will explore important tips for building resilience and staying prepared

“Severe weather can hit Delaware at any time, and the recent blizzard of 2026 demonstrates how critical it is to take steps to prepare in advance,” said Swallow. “Over fifty thousand people were without power in frigid temperatures, and some roads were inaccessible due to fallen trees. Even with the forecast, some people were caught off guard and needed emergency assistance. So, taking steps now to prepare for extreme events is not only a matter of comfort, but of safety.”

The event will feature presentations and content from professionals of Delaware Sea Grant, DEMA, and CEMA. The historical theme will be viewed within the context of the 75th anniversary of the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) and the 50th anniversary of Delaware Sea Grant. The Lewes-based location of the event is also to acknowledge the City of Lewes’ year-long celebration of the Nation’s 250^th anniversary.

For more information or to register for the event, visit https://events.udel.edu/event/then-and-now