As the recent snowfall has demonstrated, Delaware still relies on accurate, real-time snow data. The DEOS Snow Monitoring Network, part of the Delaware Environmental Observing System (DEOS) at the University of Delaware, provides such information. Using 26 sensors throughout the state, the network tracks snow depth every five minutes, delivering critical measurements to the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) for its Snow Removal Reimbursement Program.

The DEOS system offers distinct advantages over manual snow measurements. With automated sensors, DelDOT can monitor snow accumulation patterns in real time, helping allocate snow removal resources effectively across the state. These insights allow DelDOT to prioritize areas where snow is accumulating the fastest.

Homeowners and civic groups involved in the Snow Removal Reimbursement Program also benefit from the system. By tracking snow accumulation in real time, they can call for snowplowing when necessary and be assured of partial reimbursement.

"As far as this storm is concerned, we're in a fairly active winter weather pattern, which we haven't experienced in several years. We're going to stay very cold following this event, so any snow we receive today should stick around for a while," said Kevin Brinson, state climatologist and director of DEOS.  "After this storm goes through, we'll turn our attention to another storm system that could bring snow this upcoming weekend, and there are one or two more systems showing up in the forecast models next week. Those are pretty far off still, so we'll have to see if anything pans out next week."