Storms and Floods

Delaware City is vulnerable to coastal storms and flooding. A significant percentage of the town is located within the FEMA defined 100-year flood plain. These areas are noted as Zone AE on the FEMA flood maps and are particularly susceptible to flooding. Remember that the 100-year flood does not mean that flooding will occur only every 100 years. It means that in any given year there is a 1% chance of a significant flooding event. For Delaware City, flooding will occur if there is a storm surge or if two or more high tides take place without an intervening ebb tide. This can happen during hurricanes and nor’easters when winds can hold water in the bay. Delaware City’s storm of record is the unnamed Hurricane of 1878, during which a storm surge of almost 12′ did extensive damage to the Delaware Bay and River coastline. Water was reported to have reached nearly to the second floor of the Delaware City Hotel at the foot of Clinton Street. You need to be prepare for this type of hurricane again. Three Steps to Flood Safety. More Floodplain information.

In an emergency, Delaware City could be cut off from outside assistance. The City cannot count on State and federal resources arriving for several days. Residents are encouraged to have a family emergency plan and checklist that prepares them to meet basic needs for 72 hours after a storm event. Be sure to have a several day supply of any medications or health supplies you need, such as insulin for diabetes, or oxygen bottles for chronic breathing problems.