Wilmington Braces for Wintry Mix

Meteorologist warns of hazardous driving conditions from snow, sleet, and freezing rain

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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A wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain is expected to hit Wilmington, Delaware overnight and into the morning, creating potentially dangerous driving conditions for commuters. Meteorologist Caitlin Kaiser breaks down the differences between the various types of winter precipitation and how each can impact road safety.

Why it matters

Wilmington is no stranger to winter weather, but the combination of snow, sleet, and freezing rain can make roads especially treacherous. Drivers will need to exercise extra caution to avoid accidents and delays during the morning rush hour.

The details

The wintry mix is expected to start as snow before transitioning to sleet and then freezing rain as temperatures fluctuate around the freezing mark. Wet, heavy snow can reduce visibility and make it difficult to control a vehicle, while sleet can create icy patches that cause cars to slide. Freezing rain, which is nearly invisible, can coat roads, bridges, and overpasses with a thin layer of ice that is extremely hazardous for driving.

  • The wintry mix is expected to begin around 10 PM EST on February 21 and continue through the morning commute on February 22.
  • Temperatures are forecast to hover around 32°F (0°C) throughout the event, leading to the mix of precipitation types.

The players

Caitlin Kaiser

A meteorologist who provides expert analysis on the different types of winter precipitation and their impacts on driving conditions.

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What they’re saying

“Snow, sleet, freezing rain and wintry mix may all sound similar, but each creates different driving conditions.”

— Caitlin Kaiser, Meteorologist (weather.com)

What’s next

Drivers in Wilmington should monitor weather reports and road conditions closely, allow extra time for their commute, and exercise caution when driving during the wintry mix event.

The takeaway

Wilmington residents need to be prepared for a variety of winter precipitation that can make roads extremely hazardous. Staying informed about the latest weather forecasts and adjusting driving behaviors accordingly is crucial for staying safe on the roads.