Winter Storm Prompts Widespread Cancellations Across Delaware

Schools, government offices, and businesses shut down as power outages impact the region.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A major winter storm has led to widespread cancellations and closures across Delaware, with schools, government offices, and businesses shutting down due to power outages and hazardous conditions. The Cape Henlopen School District, Sussex Academy, and Sussex County Vocational Technical School District have all canceled classes for Tuesday, February 24th. State and county government offices, as well as the University of Delaware, will also be closed. Beebe Healthcare has postponed all elective surgeries, procedures, and tests, while only keeping its emergency departments open. The Music School of Delaware and various other organizations have also suspended operations.

Why it matters

The widespread cancellations and closures highlight the significant impact the winter storm is having on the region, with power outages and dangerous travel conditions forcing schools, businesses, and government agencies to shut down. This disruption to daily life and operations underscores the need for emergency preparedness and response efforts to support the community during severe weather events.

The details

The winter storm has led to extensive power outages across Sussex County, prompting the closure of schools, government offices, and other organizations. The Cape Henlopen School District, Sussex Academy, and Sussex County Vocational Technical School District have all canceled classes for Tuesday, February 24th, citing the lack of power in many areas. State and county government offices, as well as the University of Delaware, will also be closed on Monday, February 23rd. Beebe Healthcare has postponed all elective surgeries, procedures, and tests, while only keeping its emergency departments open. The Music School of Delaware and various other organizations have also suspended operations.

  • School closures are in effect for Tuesday, February 24th.
  • State and county government offices, as well as the University of Delaware, will be closed on Monday, February 23rd.
  • Beebe Healthcare has postponed all elective surgeries, procedures, and tests, effective immediately.

The players

Cape Henlopen School District

A public school district serving the Rehoboth Beach and Lewes areas of Delaware.

Sussex Academy

A public charter school serving students in grades K-12 in Sussex County, Delaware.

Sussex County Vocational Technical School District

A vocational and technical school district serving students in Sussex County, Delaware.

Beebe Healthcare

A non-profit healthcare system based in Lewes, Delaware, that operates several hospitals and outpatient facilities in the region.

The Music School of Delaware

A non-profit music school with locations throughout the state, offering music education and performance opportunities.

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What’s next

Beebe Healthcare officials have stated that they will announce plans for operations on Tuesday, February 24th, by 3 p.m. on Monday. The public is advised to monitor the organization's social media pages and website for updates.

The takeaway

The winter storm's impact on the region highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for robust infrastructure to withstand severe weather events. The widespread closures and disruptions to daily life underscore the challenges faced by communities during such situations and the critical role that local organizations and government agencies play in supporting residents during these times.