Polar Vortex Grips Delaware, Bringing Frigid Temperatures

When will the deep freeze end? A warmup is on the way.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A polar vortex has gripped the state of Delaware, bringing wind chills well below zero degrees Fahrenheit. Certain lakes and ponds have frozen over, allowing for ice skating, but officials warn of dangerous conditions. The extreme cold is expected to ease by the middle of next week, with temperatures climbing above freezing.

Why it matters

The polar vortex event is causing significant disruption and hardship for Delaware residents, with dangerously cold temperatures making everyday activities difficult and potentially hazardous. Understanding when relief is on the way is crucial for the community.

The details

Wind chills have plummeted to as low as -12 degrees Fahrenheit in Wilmington, -7 degrees in Dover, and -4 degrees in Georgetown. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning until noon on Sunday, followed by a Cold Weather Advisory until Monday. Certain lakes and ponds have frozen over, allowing for ice skating, but officials warn that the ice may be thin in some areas, posing a safety risk.

  • On Sunday, February 8th, wind chills were below zero degrees throughout Delaware.
  • The Extreme Cold Warning is in effect until noon on Sunday, February 8th.
  • The Cold Weather Advisory will be in place until Monday, February 9th.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

Bellevue State Park

A state park in Delaware that announced its pond was open for ice skating, but cautioned skaters to exercise caution.

U.S. National Ice Center

A government agency that tracks ice buildup, which has shown significant ice coverage on the Delaware River and Delaware Bay.

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What they’re saying

“We must exercise caution, especially around drainage pipes where ice might be thinner.”

— Bellevue State Park (Facebook)

What’s next

As the week continues, high temperatures will emerge above freezing. After Tuesday, February 10th, statewide temperatures will hit the mid-30s for the rest of the week with partly sunny skies.

The takeaway

The polar vortex event has created dangerous conditions for Delaware residents, with extremely low wind chills making everyday activities difficult and hazardous. While the extreme cold is expected to ease by the middle of next week, the community must remain vigilant and cautious until temperatures return to more seasonal levels.