SALISBURY, Md. — Zoo officials are calling on the public to attend a ceremonial groundbreaking event scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, beginning at 10 a.m. for the facility’s new Expedition Ecuador Habitat designed to house white-nosed coati. This development represents a major achievement in the zoo’s continued dedication to animal welfare, visitor experience, and creating immersive animal environments.
Community members are welcome to participate in the June 17 morning ceremony and celebrate this important moment alongside zoo personnel and advocates.
The initiative stands as the zoo’s first completely new animal enclosure built in over a decade and a half. The habitat design prioritizes both creature comfort and public education, creating an active and stimulating space for a coati group while also supporting the behavioral needs of solitary adult males. These highly gregarious creatures originate from Central and South American regions and belong to the raccoon species family.
Building work should wrap up by late 2026. The completed enclosure will include dual outdoor observation areas where visitors can watch these energetic and inquisitive animals in a natural-style environment. The structure will also incorporate interior viewing panels, giving guests chances to observe the coatis during any weather conditions.
Bringing coatis back represents a longtime objective in the zoo’s species collection strategy to reintroduce this animal type to the facility. Distinguished by their elongated snouts, banded tails, and inquisitive nature, coatis will offer visitors a special chance to watch and discover one of South America’s most captivating species.
In a recent situation demonstrating the zoo’s dedication to animal care, officials were approached by the USDA and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan about an emergency placement need for a coati from a closing facility in northern New York. With habitat construction plans already in motion, zoo staff could intervene and offer sanctuary.
A middle-aged female coati called Lulu has recently joined the zoo and is currently receiving care in a specialized holding space within the veterinary facility. She remains in outstanding health and will move to her permanent enclosure after building completion, where officials expect her to flourish.
“This groundbreaking represents another step forward in our commitment to providing exceptional animal care and engaging experiences for our guests,” said Chuck Eicholz, Director of the Salisbury Zoo. “We are excited to share this moment with the community and look forward to providing Lulu with a new home here at the Salisbury Zoo.”
The endeavor receives backing from the recently established Salisbury Zoo Foundation, Inc., the zoo’s 501(c)(3) fundraising organization, along with generous contributions from the Palmer Foundation, whose donation helped initiate the project.
Fundraising activities continue, with additional contributions required to complete construction and establish Lulu’s permanent residence. Those interested in supporting Expedition Ecuador can find information at: https://salisburyzoo.org/support/fundraising/expedition-ecuador/
Details about the habitat’s official opening will be shared as construction advances.
SALISBURY, Md. – Municipal officials in Salisbury have announced plans to shut down a section of West Road this week to conduct essential sewer system maintenance and repairs between Queen Avenue and Chippewa Drive.
The roadway will remain closed to through traffic from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. each day, starting Monday, June 22, and continuing through Thursday, June 25. The affected portion of West Road will be inaccessible to drivers during these daytime hours.
City officials say clearly marked detour signs will direct vehicles safely around the construction zone. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes, budget extra time for travel, and drive carefully when passing through nearby areas.
Municipal leaders expressed gratitude for residents’ understanding and cooperation while crews work to complete this essential infrastructure project aimed at enhancing the reliability and performance of the sewer system.
Those seeking more details or having questions may reach the City of Salisbury Department of Infrastructure & Development by calling 410-548-3170.
The Delaware Department of Transportation has rescheduled tree maintenance work along a busy stretch of southbound Route 141.
Originally planned for this Sunday, June 14th, the tree work between Alapocas Drive and the Tyler McConnell Bridge has been moved to Sunday, June 28th. The timing remains unchanged, with crews working from 6:00 am to 8:00 am.
DelDOT is advising drivers to exercise caution and anticipate traffic delays in that area during the work period.
Drivers in Newark will need to find alternate routes this week as a busy stretch of North College Avenue undergoes railroad crossing maintenance.
The Delaware Department of Transportation has announced that North College Avenue will be shut down completely between Main Street and Cleveland Avenue starting Tuesday morning at 8:00 am on June 16th. The around-the-clock closure is scheduled to wrap up by 10:00 am on Friday, June 19th.
Officials say detour signs will be put in place to guide motorists around the work zone during the four-day construction period.
A 25-year-old Pennsylvania resident is facing strangulation charges after Newark Police investigated an assault report from early February.
Law enforcement officials launched their investigation on February 3, 2025, following a victim’s report that Christian Womack had attacked her at a commercial establishment on the 600 block of South College Avenue.
According to police reports, the incident occurred during a dispute when Womack allegedly seized the victim by the throat.
The suspect now faces strangulation charges along with additional related offenses stemming from the February incident.
Residents across the Delmarva Peninsula should remain weather-aware today as another round of potentially severe thunderstorms is expected to develop late this afternoon and continue into the evening hours.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed the entire Delmarva region under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms, signaling the potential for scattered storms capable of producing damaging weather.
A cold front approaching from the west, combined with increasing influence from an upper-level disturbance, will provide the ingredients needed for thunderstorm development. While not everyone will see storms, those that do form could quickly become strong to severe.
Note that one of the biggest uncertainties today is storm coverage. A localized area of sinking air aloft may temporarily suppress thunderstorm development across portions of southeastern Pennsylvania, the Philadelphia metro area, and southern New Jersey. However, areas farther north and south of that corridor, including much of Delmarva, could see stronger storm development where instability is able to build.
The primary concern will once again be damaging straight-line winds, fueled by very hot temperatures, abundant low-level moisture, and an atmosphere favorable for powerful downbursts. Some wind gusts could exceed 60 mph, capable of bringing down trees, power lines, and causing localized damage.
An isolated instance of small hail cannot be ruled out, but the overall threat for large hail remains low. Likewise, atmospheric conditions are not particularly favorable for tornado development, making that risk minimal.
Temperatures climbing into the 90s will help fuel strong instability through the afternoon before thunderstorms begin to develop. Some storms may organize into clusters and race eastward across the peninsula through the early evening before gradually weakening after sunset.
Residents are encouraged to closely monitor the latest forecasts throughout the day and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings. If a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued for your location, move indoors immediately and stay away from windows until the storm passes.
Delaware State University’s recently named women’s basketball head coach, Khadijah Rushdan, has brought four new members to her coaching team as she launches her tenure with the program.
The coaching staff appointments represent the start of a new chapter for DSU women’s basketball under Rushdan’s leadership.
Maryland has allocated $5 million through the Community Parks and Playgrounds grant program to fund 26 recreation projects across 15 counties for the upcoming fiscal year 2027.
The state’s Department of Natural Resources oversees this competitive funding initiative, which assists municipal governments in upgrading existing recreational facilities, establishing new parks, or acquiring playground equipment.
“Community Parks and Playgrounds grants are investments in outdoor recreation that provide children with opportunities for unstructured play and access to safe natural areas across the state,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz. “For more than two decades, DNR has been working with local communities to make their visions for outdoor spaces into reality through this program.”
Each approved project will go before the Board of Public Works for final authorization before moving forward.
Among the funded projects, several Eastern Shore communities will receive significant investments. The Town of Delmar in Wicomico County secured two grants totaling over $371,000 for Gordy Park upgrades and sports complex lighting improvements. Caroline County’s Town of Denton received $300,000 for playground expansion at Sharp Road Park, while Preston will get nearly $142,000 for new playground equipment at James T. Wright Park.
Other notable Eastern Shore projects include Cambridge’s $305,000 allocation for developing Leonards Lane Pocket Park with basketball courts and walking paths, and East New Market’s $70,500 grant for Friendship Hall Park enhancements.
The funding supports diverse recreational improvements statewide, from splash pads and skate parks to sports field renovations and inclusive playground installations. Projects range from $23,970 for court lighting in Frostburg to $310,000 for a new restroom and concession facility in Poolesville.
Since launching in fiscal year 2002, this grant program has distributed more than $97 million across over 900 park and playground initiatives throughout Maryland.
The Department of Natural Resources is currently reviewing applications for fiscal year 2028 funding. Officials will conduct virtual information sessions via Google Meet at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23 and 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 23 to discuss grant requirements and answer questions. Applications must be submitted by 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) has announced planned overnight lane restrictions on Route 896 in New Castle County this week.
Both northbound and southbound lanes of Route 896 will experience closures from Monday through Thursday as crews work on pavement markings and guardrail installation projects.
Additionally, mobile work crews will be operating on Interstate 95, Route 896, and the connecting interchange ramps from Sunday through Thursday to install raised pavement markings.
The work is scheduled to take place during overnight hours to minimize impact on daily commuter traffic.
Two right lanes on northbound Route 13 at Lisa Drive are currently blocked following a vehicle accident, according to traffic officials.
The lane closures are affecting northbound traffic flow as emergency crews respond to the crash scene. Drivers traveling through the area should anticipate delays and may want to seek alternative routes until the roadway is fully reopened.
No additional details about the accident or estimated clearance time have been released at this time.
Motorists should expect delays on Rogers Road eastbound today as construction crews have closed the right shoulder between Oakmont Drive and Newcastle Avenue (Route 9).
The shoulder closure is part of ongoing construction work in the area and is expected to remain in place until 4 PM this afternoon.
Drivers are advised to use caution when traveling through the construction zone and may want to consider alternate routes to avoid potential delays.
Emergency personnel and community members conducted damage surveys Friday following a devastating line of severe weather that tore through areas south of Chicago, knocking out electricity for approximately 380,000 utility customers across Illinois and Indiana while causing significant disruptions to regional air travel.
Authorities reported no immediate fatalities or life-threatening injuries resulting from Thursday’s violent weather system.
Local authorities in Merrillville, Indiana, located roughly 33 miles southeast of Chicago, documented widespread destruction throughout their community. Residential structures and commercial buildings sustained severe damage, fallen trees and electrical lines created roadway blockages, and a portion of a local high school’s roofing system was completely destroyed.
Regional emergency response teams assisted local first responders in conducting search operations and evaluating affected neighborhoods, according to municipal officials posting updates on social media platforms. Work crews continued clearing debris from roadways throughout the overnight hours.
The National Weather Service confirmed that at least two additional tornadoes struck communities in the vicinity of Streator, Illinois, and Hebron, Indiana. Social media posts containing photographs and video footage revealed destruction patterns in these locations matching the devastation observed in Merrillville. Weather service meteorologists indicated they will conduct comprehensive damage surveys over the coming days to establish the total number of tornadoes that made ground contact across the affected region.
Emergency response teams in Streator, a manufacturing and agricultural community situated approximately 100 miles southwest of Chicago, also began damage assessment operations. City officials established a reunification facility for displaced community members at the municipal building while the Red Cross activated an emergency shelter.
Streator Mayor Tara Bedei confirmed no fatalities had been documented in her community. “We are incredibly grateful for the safety of our residents and the quick action of emergency personnel,” she said in a statement.
Emergency personnel in Hebron, positioned about 50 miles southeast of Chicago, also maintained operations throughout the night, according to official Facebook communications.
Jennifer Hall was inside her garage in Elkhart, Indiana, when the severe winds and precipitation intensified Thursday evening. Without warning, she reported hearing a tremendous impact and subsequently discovered that a large tree branch had penetrated her rental property’s roof. She deployed containers to collect rainwater entering through the opening.
“I’m just nervous because it’s just been one thing after another,” said Hall, explaining she just had surgery and her husband is out of town.
Electrical service remained disrupted for roughly 235,000 residences and commercial establishments throughout Illinois, including 144,000 customers in Cook County, which encompasses Chicago, based on poweroutage.us data. An additional 144,000 customers experienced power failures across Indiana.
The severe weather system caused flight delays and cancellations at multiple airports Thursday, including facilities in Chicago, Philadelphia and New York. Portions of the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions also experienced challenging conditions due to elevated temperatures and humidity levels. Friday morning operations at Chicago’s O’Hare International and Midway International airports included 15 canceled flights and approximately 24 delayed departures, representing a small fraction of total scheduled service, according to FlightAware flight monitoring services.
These tornado events followed severe weather systems that moved through Midwest states Wednesday, causing power disruptions, structural damage and flight cancellations.
In Des Moines, Iowa, a 54-year-old man died at a homeless encampment in a park Wednesday after being hit by a tree that “broke apart and fell during strong storms,” police said in a statement. There were no immediate reports of other deaths or injuries from those storms.
A Heat Advisory remains in effect for New Castle County and surrounding areas until 8 PM tonight, with dangerous heat index values expected to reach 103 degrees.
The National Weather Service issued the advisory for northern Delaware, along with parts of New Jersey and southeastern Pennsylvania, warning that the combination of hot temperatures and high humidity could lead to heat-related illnesses.
Residents are urged to take precautions by drinking plenty of fluids, staying in air-conditioned spaces, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure. Health officials recommend wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limiting outdoor activities to early morning or evening hours.
Special attention should be paid to elderly relatives and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to heat stress. Warning signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, and nausea, while heat stroke symptoms include high body temperature and confusion.
For those without air conditioning, help is available by calling 211 or visiting county health department websites to locate cooling centers.
Relief is on the way as a cold front moves through tonight, bringing much less humid conditions this weekend. However, temperatures will still remain near 90 degrees through the weekend.
Motorists traveling on N Star Road should expect delays today as construction crews continue work in the area.
The roadway between Altonwood Drive and Planet Road is experiencing intermittent lane closures that will remain in effect until 5 PM today, according to traffic officials.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time when using this route or consider alternate paths to avoid potential delays caused by the ongoing construction activity.
Motorists using S Claymont St should plan for potential delays this afternoon as construction work continues to impact traffic flow in the area.
Northbound lanes on S Claymont St are experiencing periodic closures between C St and B St as crews work on the roadway. The lane restrictions are expected to remain in place through 3 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time or consider alternate routes to avoid potential delays in the construction zone.
A fallen tree has forced authorities to shut down a portion of Creek Road, making the roadway impassable for drivers.
The closure affects Creek Road between its intersections with Snuff Mill Road and Lower Snuff Mill Road, where the downed tree is blocking the travel lanes.
Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes while crews work to clear the obstruction from the roadway.
Motorists traveling on Ponderosa Drive are experiencing intermittent lane restrictions today as construction crews work along the roadway.
The lane closures are affecting traffic on Ponderosa Drive in the area from Plain Dealing Road to Barkers Landing Road. The construction work and associated lane restrictions are scheduled to continue through 6 PM this evening.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and exercise caution when passing through the construction zone.
Drivers using Ponderosa Drive are encountering intermittent lane restrictions today due to ongoing construction work in the area.
The lane closures affect the stretch of roadway running from Plain Dealing Road to Barkers Landing Road, with work expected to wrap up by 6 PM this evening.
Motorists are advised to plan for potential delays and consider alternate routes if possible while crews complete their work in the area.
A Heat Advisory remains in effect until 8 PM tonight for New Castle County in Delaware and surrounding areas, as dangerous heat index values could reach 103 degrees.
The National Weather Service warns that the combination of hot temperatures and high humidity poses a significant risk for heat-related illnesses across northern Delaware, southern New Jersey, and southeastern Pennsylvania. Areas under the advisory include New Castle County, along with parts of Camden, Gloucester, Mercer, and northwestern Burlington counties in New Jersey, plus Philadelphia and surrounding Pennsylvania counties.
Health officials urge residents to take immediate precautions: drink plenty of fluids, stay indoors in air conditioning when possible, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. If you must be outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours.
Pay close attention to signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and check on elderly relatives and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat.
For those without air conditioning, call 211 or contact your local health department for information about cooling centers.
Relief is coming this weekend as a cold front moves through tonight, bringing much less humid conditions, though temperatures will still reach near 90 degrees.
Good morning, Delmarva! We’re looking at a hot and potentially stormy Friday across the peninsula. Temperatures will climb to a sizzling 96 degrees under mostly sunny skies this morning, but don’t let that blue sky fool you – changes are coming this afternoon.
After 2 PM, we’ll see chances for showers and thunderstorms developing, with a 50% chance of precipitation. Some of these storms could pack a punch and turn severe, so keep an eye on the sky and stay weather-aware. With heat index values reaching up to 103 degrees, it’s going to feel dangerously hot out there, so please stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
Tonight, any lingering storms will taper off as we cool down to a much more comfortable 69 degrees under mostly cloudy skies. The good news? Saturday looks absolutely beautiful! We’ll see sunny skies return with highs around 89 degrees – perfect weather for any weekend plans. Saturday night stays pleasant with mostly clear skies and lows near 68.
Stay cool today, Delmarva, and have a wonderful weekend!
A Heat Advisory remains in effect until 8 PM tonight for New Castle County in Delaware, as dangerous heat index values could reach 103 degrees.
The National Weather Service issued the advisory early this morning, warning that hot temperatures combined with high humidity create conditions ripe for heat-related illnesses. The advisory also covers parts of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia and surrounding counties.
Health officials urge residents to take precautions during the peak heat hours. Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces when possible, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. If you must be outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours.
Pay special attention to elderly relatives and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to heat stress. Watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, weakness, and nausea.
If you don’t have air conditioning at home, call 211 or visit your county health department website to find cooling centers in your area.
Relief is on the way this weekend. A cold front moving through tonight will bring much less humid conditions, though temperatures will still remain near 90 degrees through the weekend.
Morning commuters should plan for delays on southbound Route 72 where construction activity has forced the closure of the right travel lane.
The lane restriction affects the stretch of roadway running from Bellvue Road to Brookhil Drive, with the closure scheduled to remain in place through 7 AM.
Drivers traveling through the area should expect reduced capacity and potential backups during the construction period.
Weather authorities have put a heat advisory into effect for the region, warning residents of dangerous temperature conditions expected throughout the day.
The advisory went into effect at 3:59 AM this morning and will remain active until 8:00 PM tonight, according to the National Weather Service Mount Holly office.
Officials are urging residents to take precautions during the hottest parts of the day and stay hydrated.
A university athletics department has kicked off documentation of their 2026 302 Tour, sharing updates from the first day of activities.
The athletics program is maintaining a blog to chronicle the tour’s progress, with initial coverage focusing on Day 1 events. The tour appears to be part of the university’s broader athletics programming for 2026.
Officials are using the blog format to provide ongoing updates and documentation of tour activities as they unfold throughout the initiative.
Drivers using westbound Kirkwood Highway should expect delays overnight as construction crews have shut down the left lane between E Green Valley Circle and Harmony Road.
The lane restriction will remain in effect until 6 a.m., according to traffic officials. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when passing through the construction zone.
Construction work is causing traffic disruptions on East Main Street westbound, with the left lane and left shoulder closed to motorists.
The lane closure stretches between Washington Street and Tyre Avenue and is scheduled to remain in effect until 5 a.m.
Drivers traveling through the area should plan for potential delays and consider alternate routes if possible during the overnight construction period.
Delaware State Police have charged 46-year-old Kara Gilmore of Ocean City, Maryland, with vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, driving under the influence, and additional charges after a deadly hit-and-run collision involving a bicyclist in Millville Tuesday evening.
The crash happened on June 9, 2026, around 9:05 p.m. on Atlantic Avenue east of Whites Neck Road. According to the initial investigation, a cyclist was riding westbound in the eastbound bicycle lane when Gilmore’s Subaru Forester, which was heading eastbound, veered out of the travel lane and into the bike lane, striking the rider. Following the collision, Gilmore fled the scene, but Ocean View Police Department officers found her disabled vehicle shortly afterward in the Artisan’s Bank parking lot on Atlantic Avenue. When state troopers made contact with Gilmore, they observed signs indicating she was impaired and arrested her for DUI after conducting Standardized Field Sobriety Tests.
The cyclist, 52-year-old Duane Pershing of Ocean View, Delaware, was airlifted to a hospital with critical injuries. He succumbed to those injuries on June 10, 2026.
Following her arrest, Gilmore was transported to Troop 4 and initially faced these charges before being arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3 and released on a $3,404 unsecured bond:
Vehicular Assault 1st Degree (Felony)
Leaving the Scene of a Collision Resulting in Injury
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Related Traffic Offenses
On June 11, 2026, officers secured an additional arrest warrant for Gilmore and apprehended her in Maryland. When she is extradited back to Delaware, she will face additional felony charges of vehicular homicide 2nd Degree and leaving the scene of a collision resulting in death.
The Delaware State Police Troop 7 Collision Reconstruction Unit is continuing their investigation into this incident. Investigators are requesting that anyone who saw the crash or has relevant information contact Master Corporal R. Albert at (302) 703-3266. Tips can also be submitted through private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or through Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333.
Crime victims, witnesses, or those who have lost loved ones to sudden death can receive support and resources around the clock from the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center through their toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). The Victim Services Unit can also be reached via email at [email protected].
Motorists traveling on Route 1 southbound should expect delays at the Route 16 interchange due to ongoing construction work requiring flagging operations.
The construction activities are affecting both the on and off ramps connecting Route 1 southbound to Route 16, with traffic control personnel directing vehicles through the work area.
The flagging operations are scheduled to continue until 6 a.m., after which normal traffic flow is expected to resume.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and exercise caution when approaching the work zone.
The National Weather Service office in Mount Holly, New Jersey has issued a heat advisory that went into effect Tuesday afternoon at 3:02 PM and will remain active until Wednesday evening at 8:00 PM.
Weather officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions during this period of elevated temperatures that could pose health risks to vulnerable populations.
The advisory serves as a warning for potentially dangerous heat conditions that require extra attention to staying cool and hydrated.
A Heat Advisory remains in effect across northern Delaware and surrounding areas until 8 PM Friday, as dangerous heat index values could reach 103 degrees.
New Castle County residents should prepare for sweltering conditions as high temperatures combine with oppressive humidity. The advisory also covers parts of southeastern Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, and portions of southern New Jersey.
Health officials warn that these conditions can lead to heat-related illnesses, particularly for vulnerable populations including the elderly, children, and those working outdoors.
To stay safe, meteorologists recommend drinking plenty of fluids, staying in air-conditioned spaces, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure. If you must be outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours.
Residents without air conditioning can call 211 for assistance finding cooling centers in their area.
There is some good news on the horizon: scattered showers and thunderstorms expected late Friday afternoon may provide temporary relief, though humidity will remain high. A cold front moving through this weekend will finally break the oppressive pattern, bringing much more comfortable conditions.
The Heat Advisory expires at 8 PM Friday evening.
Delaware has passed legislation to participate in an interstate agreement designed to make it easier for respiratory therapists to work across state boundaries.
The newly enacted law establishes Delaware’s participation in the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact, which aims to streamline licensing requirements for healthcare professionals in this field. The agreement will become active once seven states have passed similar legislation.
According to the legislative documentation, five states have already enacted this compact as of January 2026, while six additional states have introduced comparable bills.
The compact addresses challenges faced by the nation’s roughly 130,000 licensed respiratory therapists, who currently encounter substantial obstacles when attempting to provide care in states other than where they originally obtained their licenses. These barriers persist even when practitioners meet all necessary qualifications to work in different states.
The new agreement is designed to remove unnecessary licensing obstacles that prevent multi-state practice while simultaneously strengthening public safety through improved information sharing between state regulatory bodies.
Delaware has officially joined a multi-state licensing agreement that will allow cosmetologists to work across state lines without obtaining separate licenses in each location.
The state has enacted legislation adopting the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, which became operational after sufficient states passed similar measures. The initiative aims to streamline government processes while establishing a regulatory structure for cosmetology professionals working in multiple states.
Under the new system, licensed beauty professionals can obtain enhanced mobility and expanded opportunities, with particular benefits for military personnel and their families who frequently relocate. The program maintains public safety by ensuring qualified and dependable cosmetology services continue to be available.
Beauty professionals living in participating states can now request a multi-state license through their home state, which grants them the authority to work throughout all member locations. To qualify, applicants must possess a current, unrestricted cosmetology license in their resident state and satisfy specific education standards, pass national examinations, and complete background screenings.
License holders must fulfill ongoing professional development requirements to maintain their multi-state credentials. The compact includes provisions for member states to exchange information about disciplinary measures, investigations, and any circumstances that might prevent a professional from maintaining their multi-state authorization, ensuring all participating states stay informed about practitioners’ standing and qualifications.
Delaware lawmakers have passed legislation that expands hunting opportunities across the state while updating regulations to reflect modern hunting practices.
The new law clarifies that Sunday hunting will be allowed for all game animals and birds that have established hunting seasons through the Department. However, private property owners and public agencies will retain authority over when and where Sunday hunting occurs on their lands, without creating excessive regulatory burden.
The legislation also streamlines regulations regarding handgun ammunition calibers allowed for deer hunting and modernizes rules governing other hunting equipment to keep pace with technological advances.
Additionally, the law reclassifies certain wildlife species. European and snowshoe hares will no longer be considered game animals, while skunks and weasels have been added to the game animal category.
The changes represent multiple amendments to Delaware’s Title 7 code, which governs regulations and restrictions related to game and fish management throughout the state.
Delaware lawmakers are considering legislation that would eliminate current restrictions on how much energy customers can generate through net metering programs.
The proposed bill would modify Delaware’s public utilities regulations by removing the existing 8 percent limitation on net energy metering for customer-generated power.
Under current law, there is a cap that limits the amount of customer-generated energy that can be fed back into the grid through net metering arrangements. The new legislation would eliminate this restriction entirely.
The measure represents a change to Title 26 of the Delaware Code, which governs public utilities and energy regulations in the state.
Delaware lawmakers are considering legislation that would strengthen civil rights protections for people with disabilities throughout the state.
The proposed measure would modify Delaware’s Equal Accommodations Law by incorporating safeguards from Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, along with its implementing regulations as they existed on January 1, 2025.
According to the bill’s language, the legislation aims to “help ensure that Delawareans with disabilities get broad and full protection within Delaware.”
The proposal would also establish that any references to Section 504 found elsewhere in Delaware’s laws or regulations would be interpreted as references to the state’s Equal Accommodations Law.
The bill, designated as SB 198, represents an effort to align state disability rights protections with established federal standards.
Officials in Salisbury, Maryland have moved a scheduled Great Train Robbery performance from its original June 12 date to July 31 because of weather conditions. The show at Pohanka Riverwalk Amphitheatre was postponed due to extreme heat and the possibility of thunderstorms.
The rescheduled performance will take place on Friday, July 31, running from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.
Officials said they made this choice to maintain their dedication to offering secure and entertaining community events for both local residents and visitors.
The performance at Pohanka Riverwalk Amphitheatre costs nothing to attend and welcomes all ages, creating a family-oriented chance to hear live music in the heart of Salisbury.
Concert-goers should consider bringing their own seating and showing up early to visit nearby restaurants and shops in the downtown area either before or after the show, helping support area businesses and keeping downtown active.
Those wanting more information can check the City of Salisbury’s official websites and social media accounts for updates.
A motor vehicle accident has prompted lane restrictions at the busy intersection where Foulk Road meets Silverside Road, according to traffic officials.
The crash has forced the closure of interior lanes at this location, creating potential delays for commuters and other drivers traveling through the area.
Motorists are advised to use caution when approaching the intersection and consider taking alternative routes to avoid congestion while emergency responders and cleanup crews work at the scene.
The duration of the lane closures has not been specified, and drivers should check current traffic conditions before traveling through this area.
More than five decades have passed since the unsolved murder of William L. Collins, a case that continues to challenge New Castle County investigators.
The 29-year-old man was found dead on June 11, 1972, when police officers were called to Pigeon Point Road near the former C&E Minerals Inc. chemical plant in New Castle. The incident occurred in the Port of Wilmington community area.
Despite the passage of time, law enforcement officials have not closed the case and continue seeking information that could lead to answers in Collins’ death. The investigation remains active as a cold case homicide.
Delaware legislators are considering changes to state employment law that would provide greater flexibility for workers adopting children.
The proposed legislation would modify Delaware’s employment code to expand when employees can begin using paid leave during the adoption process.
Under the measure, workers would have three options for starting their adoption-related paid time off: when a child is initially placed in their home for adoption purposes, at the point when they file legal paperwork to begin the adoption proceedings, or after the adoption becomes legally finalized.
The bill represents an effort to clarify existing state law regarding adoption leave benefits and provide families with more options during what can be a lengthy legal process.
Delaware lawmakers are considering legislation that would lower the minimum age for bartending from 21 to 18 years old, potentially bringing the state in line with neighboring Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Under the proposed changes outlined in HB 195, individuals aged 18, 19, or 20 would be permitted to serve alcoholic beverages only while under direct supervision of someone at least 21 years old working alongside them behind the bar.
The bill also includes provisions to strengthen alcohol service training requirements, mandating that all beverage servers complete training every two years instead of the current four-year cycle.
To address safety concerns for younger workers, the legislation would ban anyone under 21 from employment at establishments featuring adult-oriented entertainment. This restriction covers venues licensed as adult entertainment facilities, locations offering sexually explicit performances, and businesses marketed as strip clubs, adult entertainment venues, or gentlemen’s clubs.
According to the bill’s language, Delaware currently stands among a minority of states that require bartenders to be 21 years old. Supporters argue that reducing this age requirement would help the state’s restaurant and hospitality sector compete more effectively with other states where younger adults can work behind the bar.
The proposed changes would specifically help Delaware businesses compete with establishments in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, where 18-to-20-year-olds are already eligible for bartending positions.
Delaware has enacted new legislation that will mandate the creation and distribution of a comprehensive guide detailing the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants throughout the state.
The new law creates the Rights and Responsibilities Guide for Landlords and Tenants Committee, which will operate under the Delaware Real Estate Commission. The commission will be responsible for creating, updating, and distributing this statewide guide with assistance from the newly formed committee.
The comprehensive guide will outline obligations that both tenants and property owners must meet, covering requirements at the federal, state, county, and local levels.
Under the new requirements, landlords and real estate service providers must distribute the guide to potential tenants when establishing rental relationships covered under Part III of Title 25. The guide must also be provided each time a lease agreement is renewed for terms lasting one year or longer. Property owners can choose to provide the information either electronically or in printed form.
The legislation classifies the guide as a mandatory form under Delaware Code Title 24, Section 2912. Real estate professionals could face disciplinary action for misrepresenting whether the form is available or for providing incorrect information about its contents. Additionally, failing to provide the guide when required will be considered an unlawful practice under Title 6, Section 2513 and a violation of Title 6, Chapter 25, Subchapter II.
The law also mandates that the commission submit a report to the General Assembly examining what other disclosures or documents tenants must currently receive separately from this guide. The report will include recommendations on whether existing laws should be modified to incorporate those additional materials into the new comprehensive guide.
The legislation takes effect immediately upon being signed into law, but implementation will occur either one year after enactment or when the Director of the Division of Professional Regulation announces in the Register of Regulations that both the required legislative report has been submitted and the guide has been published by the Delaware Real Estate Commission, whichever comes first.
Penalty provisions will go into effect 180 days after the main portions of the law are implemented. If the law is put into practice before the legislative report is completed, that report must be delivered to the General Assembly within 180 days of implementation.
Delaware legislators are working to enhance the state’s workplace safety program by expanding workers’ compensation insurance discounts available to businesses while keeping the overall system stable.
The proposed legislation addresses issues created by earlier changes to workplace safety program rules. Those previous adjustments prompted the Delaware Compensation Rating Bureau to file a new Experience Rating Plan, which unintentionally caused reduced discount opportunities for businesses.
Currently, most companies with below-average claim expenses continue to benefit from reductions in their experience modification factors, regardless of their size. The combination of workplace safety program discounts and experience modification factor reductions provides similar cost savings as before for employers who maintain good safety records.
However, lawmakers say this outcome wasn’t what the previous legislation intended to achieve. The new measure would guarantee that participating companies can achieve maximum premium reductions of up to 12 percent.
Financial leaders from four major states are demanding explanations from Nasdaq and FTSE Russell regarding recent policy modifications that favor SpaceX and other massive initial public offerings, urging the index companies to halt these changes until investor risks are properly assessed.
Communications obtained by Reuters on Thursday highlight worries about how Elon Musk’s aerospace and satellite firm could affect other investors with its unprecedented $75 billion market debut.
When stock trading commences, SpaceX’s massive market value and restrictive corporate control structure pose dangers including extreme price swings and potential conflicts between index companies and their clients, according to state officials.
Index funds operating on autopilot are prepared to purchase billions worth of SpaceX stock, timing dependent on its inclusion in major market indexes. Both Nasdaq and FTSE modified their admission standards by reducing requirements for trading history, while S&P Dow Jones maintained traditional criteria.
“We respectfully urge the FTSE Russell Index Governance Board to reconsider its methodology changes and not place the interests of listing companies and their underwriters ahead of the interests of the passive fund assets that will bear the cost of any resulting mispricing” that may occur with SpaceX or other IPOs soon to follow like OpenAI and Anthropic, reads one of the letters, sent to FTSE Russell and its parent, London Stock Exchange Group, or LSEG.
New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, New York City Comptroller Mark Levine, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs, and Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman signed the correspondence. Each manages state pension investments, including automated funds that would become mandatory SpaceX purchasers due to the index decisions.
An LSEG representative declined to comment.
Frerichs, Lierman, and Oregon Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner sent comparable correspondence to Nasdaq. Similar to the FTSE communication, the Nasdaq letter requested suspension of rule implementation unless proper investor impact studies were completed.
“If so, we request that this analysis be disclosed publicly. If not, we ask that you explain why a rule change affecting over $1.4 trillion in investor assets was adopted without such an analysis,” the letter states.
The officials also requested explanations regarding how Nasdaq managed internal conflicts and whether any corporations, including SpaceX or its consultants, influenced the new regulation’s creation.
Through a representative’s statement, Oregon’s Steiner expressed being “deeply troubled” by the exchanges’ decisions. They may compel institutions like retirement systems “to purchase stocks (through index funds) that have not proven their value or undergone the rigors of market correction,” she said.
Responding to the correspondence, a Nasdaq spokesperson stated via email: “Public markets look fundamentally different than they did a decade ago — companies are staying private longer, listing at larger scale, and arriving with more complex share structures. The updates to the Nasdaq-100 methodology reflect those shifts and were implemented following a formal public consultation.
“The changes were not designed for any single company, and are consistent with updates other major index providers have independently made in response to the same market dynamics,” the Nasdaq spokesman said.
The Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) has unveiled a new program called “Healthy Meals, Local Fields: Teaching Families to Cook with Delaware Specialty Crops Campaign,” which aims to help consumers learn about crops grown in their area and ways to use them in healthy daily cooking.
The program will showcase recipe ideas using Delaware-grown specialty crops on the DEFB’s online platform, accompanied by how-to cooking demonstrations. These demonstrations will include DEFB members, area chefs, and local volunteers showing viewers step-by-step preparation methods, helping people easily use fresh, regional ingredients in their home cooking. These specialty crops encompass fruits, vegetables, and other valuable crops cultivated by area farmers. Additional recipes and demonstrations will roll out during the summer months.
“This campaign helps bridge the gap between our farmers and consumers by showing how easy and rewarding it is to cook with local products,” said DEFB Assistant Executive Director and Marketing Coordinator Mikayla Paul. “By showcasing simple, approachable recipes, we hope to inspire more families to choose fresh, locally grown foods.”
The organization’s goal with this program is to promote better nutrition choices while backing Delaware’s farming community and building stronger ties between growers and the public. With growing consumer interest in fresh, regionally sourced ingredients, this program offers hands-on resources to make nutritious eating more attainable.
“I am looking forward to building connections with the amazing farmers of Delaware and the wider community,” said DEFB Summer Intern Dillana Reed. “We are excited to promote and try to bring healthy produce from local fields into homes throughout Delaware.”
Funding for this program comes from the United States Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant, which is managed by the Delaware Department of Agriculture.
Those with specialty crop recipe ideas can visit defb.org/recipes/ to share their recipes or register to take part in a cooking demonstration.
To explore new recipe ideas or view cooking tutorials, people can go to defb.org/recipes/ or check out the Delaware Farm Bureau YouTube channel.
Dangerous heat is gripping the Delmarva region, with a Heat Advisory remaining in effect until 8 PM Friday evening across New Castle County, Delaware, and surrounding areas in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
The National Weather Service warns heat index values could reach 103 degrees, creating potentially hazardous conditions for residents. The advisory covers Philadelphia, Eastern Chester, Eastern Montgomery, Lower Bucks, and Delaware Counties in Pennsylvania, plus Mercer, Camden, Gloucester, and Northwestern Burlington Counties in New Jersey.
Health officials urge residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses by drinking plenty of fluids, staying in air-conditioned spaces, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure. When venturing outdoors, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours.
Relief may come Friday afternoon through scattered showers and thunderstorms, though humidity levels will remain high. Cooler, less humid conditions are expected this weekend following a cold front.
Residents without air conditioning can call 211 or visit county health department websites to locate cooling centers. Check on elderly neighbors and relatives during this heat event, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Motorists traveling on Peachtree Run Road should expect delays due to an ongoing shoulder closure affecting the southbound lanes.
The closure spans the stretch of roadway between Sunny Meadow Drive and Jericho Road, with traffic restrictions expected to continue through 6 PM today.
Drivers are advised to plan for potential delays and consider alternate routes when traveling through the affected area.
A Heat Advisory is now in effect for northern Delaware and surrounding areas, with dangerous heat index values expected to reach 104 degrees through Friday evening.
The National Weather Service issued the advisory early this morning for New Castle County in Delaware, along with parts of southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey. The advisory remains active from 11 AM today until 8 PM Friday.
“Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses,” warns the weather service. The oppressive conditions pose the greatest risk during peak afternoon hours.
Residents should drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned spaces, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. When venturing outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours.
Check on elderly relatives and neighbors, who are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Some relief may come from scattered showers and thunderstorms expected late this afternoon and again Friday afternoon, though humidity levels will remain high. Conditions will improve significantly this weekend as a cold front moves through the region.
For those without air conditioning, call 211 or visit your county health department website for cooling shelter locations.
Wilmington police are reaching out to the community for help in identifying a suspect connected to a recent garage break-in.
Law enforcement officials were called to a home in the 600 block of Boxwood Road on Sunday, June 7, 2026, following reports of a burglary in progress. According to investigators, the incident took place around 7:14 p.m. when an unidentified individual broke into the homeowner’s garage, stole items, and escaped heading east along Boxwood Road.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the theft and are encouraging anyone with information about the suspect or the incident to come forward.
Governor Wes Moore revealed that the Maryland Department of Natural Resources will distribute $31.5 million in grants through the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund for 25 environmental restoration initiatives covering 188 locations across the state to enhance water quality and wildlife habitats.
“The Chesapeake Bay is the centerpiece of our tourism and seafood industries in Maryland,” said Governor Moore. “It’s a key part of our cultural identity and the place where countless family memories are made. These new investments represent our commitment to continuing to improve the Bay, its surrounding watershed, and the rivers and streams that connect our communities.”
The Fiscal Year 2027 environmental restoration initiatives were chosen for their capacity to enhance water quality and deliver additional advantages including climate resilience, habitat improvement, and environmental justice. DNR projects the initiatives will eliminate approximately 45,100 pounds of nitrogen, 6,400 pounds of phosphorus, and nearly 8,900 tons of sediment annually. In waterways, nitrogen and phosphorus promote algae blooms that cloud water and decrease dissolved oxygen levels when they decompose, creating challenging conditions for marine life survival.
Trust Fund administrators utilize current scientific research and data to identify the most economical and efficient non-point source pollution reduction initiatives. DNR chose recipients from applications for outcome-based funding via the department’s digital Grants Gateway.
“Strong partnerships are key to making significant progress on reducing Chesapeake Bay pollutants,” said Maryland Secretary of Natural Resources Josh Kurtz. “The Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bay Trust Fund grants enable DNR to work directly with community organizations, local governments, and scientific experts to complete projects that will result in lasting improvements to the Coastal Bays, the Chesapeake Bay, and their watersheds throughout Maryland.”
This year’s collection of initiatives includes plans to establish 1,054 acres of forest, rehabilitate 55 acres of wetlands, execute 32,000 linear feet of stream restoration, construct or upgrade 11 stormwater reduction systems, establish 40 rain gardens in neighborhoods, develop 2,165 linear feet of living shoreline, minimize agricultural runoff, and address 960 impervious acres to decrease stormwater runoff in counties. Combined, the initiatives will provide multiple ecological, social and economic advantages throughout 16 counties and Baltimore City within the state.
These investments represent part of Governor Moore’s ongoing commitment to land preservation. In December, Gov. Moore alongside leaders from six other Chesapeake Bay watershed states, the Mayor of Washington, D.C., and federal representatives endorsed a revised Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement to advance the regional cleanup initiative. The updated agreement establishes new objectives for water quality, wildlife, and protected lands for states to achieve by 2040.
Since 1985, Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay cleanup initiatives have eliminated approximately 40 million pounds of nitrogen, 4.6 million pounds of phosphorus and about 1 billion pounds of sediment–allowing the state to achieve or nearly achieve all of its 2025 Chesapeake Bay pollution reduction goals.
The effort to minimize these Bay pollutants is crucial for protecting Maryland’s $32.3 billion tourism economy, $10.6 billion outdoor recreation economy, and $600 million seafood industry.
Last year, the Department of Natural Resources in collaboration with nonprofit organizations, the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, and thousands of volunteers finished a decade-long effort to restore oyster habitat and introduce billions of new oysters to five different Chesapeake Bay tributaries in Maryland.
Maryland is pioneering innovative Chesapeake Bay protection initiatives. In January, the Department of Natural Resources announced $11.2 million in funding for 37 ecological improvement projects through the new Whole Watershed Program, which will concentrate different pollution reduction projects in five specific watersheds–Antietam Creek in Western Maryland, Baltimore Harbor, Newport Bay near Ocean City, the Severn River near Annapolis, and the Upper Choptank River on the Eastern Shore. Maryland state agencies have also contributed to planting over 1.5 million trees statewide as part of the 5 Million Trees Planting initiative. These new trees help filter pollutants, clean the air, and create new wildlife habitat.
Chesapeake Bay Improvement Project highlights for FY2027 include:
Baltimore Tree Trust will eliminate impervious surfaces to establish 900 new tree wells within Baltimore City. Urban trees will be planted to increase canopy coverage, reduce temperatures from urban heat island effect, and enhance water quality. All locations are in overburdened and underresourced communities with high climate vulnerability.
Bowie State University will convert an existing dry pond on its campus into a wet pond to enhance water quality for the untreated impervious area within the pond’s drainage area. The retrofit will function as a showcase project visible to all students.
The City of Frederick will rehabilitate 7,580 linear feet of the Carroll Creek watershed and plant 24,000 trees resulting in water quality and flooding improvements as well as a passive park for recreation.
Eastern Shore Land Conservancy will reclaim a degraded industrial site in St. Michaels along the Choptank River and transform it into a vibrant public conservation park that reconnects the community to the waterfront that will include 2 acres of pollinator meadow, 1.53 acres of wetland enhancement and creation, and 0.33 acres of tree and shrub plantings.
Gunpowder Valley Conservancy will restore riparian buffers and upland forests within the Gunpowder watershed by planting a total of 5,400 trees on 48.25 acres and treat a drainage area of 6.14 acres by installing 32 residential rain gardens, 9 institutional rain gardens, and 4 microbioretention practices on properties within the Gunpowder watershed.
SilvoCulture will plant 8,100 trees on 27 acres across two private farm sites in Middletown and Myersville, providing long-term sources of nutritious food, wildlife habitat, water quality improvement, and ecological services including outreach and education programming.
Dollar amounts for each project will be available later this year when the contracts are completed. DNR Watershed and Climate Services staff will continue to provide technical assistance to these designated recipients as the projects are finalized.
The complete list and location of funded projects can be found on the DNR webpage for the FY27 Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund. Beginning in mid-July, the Department of Natural Resources will accept applications for the next fiscal year through the department’s online Grants Gateway.
ANNAPOLIS, MD (June 11, 2026) — Maryland officials have cut the registration fee for public electric vehicle charging stations in half, dropping the cost from $150 to $75 per charging port.
The Maryland Department of Agriculture made the announcement, noting that all electric vehicle supply equipment in the state must be registered by July 1, 2026.
The agency’s Weights and Measures Program oversees the registration process for these charging stations throughout Maryland.
The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for New Castle County, Delaware, effective from 11 AM Thursday through 8 PM Friday, as dangerous heat and humidity grip the region.
Heat index values are expected to reach up to 104 degrees, creating potentially hazardous conditions for residents across northern Delaware and surrounding areas including Philadelphia, southern New Jersey, and southeastern Pennsylvania.
“Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses,” warns the National Weather Service. The advisory affects millions of people in the Delaware Valley region.
Health officials urge residents to take precautions: drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned rooms when possible, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Check on elderly relatives and neighbors, and limit strenuous outdoor activities to early morning or evening hours.
Some relief may come from scattered showers and thunderstorms expected late Thursday and Friday afternoons, though humidity will remain high. A cold front moving through this weekend should bring more comfortable conditions.
If you don’t have air conditioning, call 211 for assistance finding cooling centers. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion including dizziness, nausea, and excessive sweating.
The advisory expires Friday at 8 PM.
The threat for severe thunderstorms is expected to increase across the Mid-Atlantic on Friday as a cold front approaches from the west, bringing a more favorable environment for organized storm development.
After a more isolated storm threat on Thursday, Friday’s setup appears capable of producing more widespread thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening hours. A hot and humid air mass will remain firmly in place ahead of the advancing front, creating moderate to strong instability across the region. As daytime heating peaks, thunderstorms are expected to develop across portions of Pennsylvania and New York before expanding south and east into the Mid-Atlantic.
Forecast guidance suggests that storms may initially form as individual cells before merging into clusters or short line segments through the late afternoon and evening. As these storms organize, the primary hazard will become damaging straight-line winds, with some storms capable of producing localized wind damage and downed trees. An isolated instance of marginally severe hail cannot be ruled out with the strongest storms.
The Storm Prediction Center currently highlights the entire region in a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms, reflecting the increasing confidence that at least scattered severe storms will develop. While the strongest upper-level winds are expected to remain west of the region, there should still be enough wind shear to support organized multicells and bowing segments capable of producing pockets of damaging winds.
Another factor that could enhance Friday’s severe weather potential is the possibility of a convectively induced disturbance moving into the region from the Great Lakes or Upper Ohio Valley. While the exact evolution remains uncertain, it could provide an additional source of lift and lead to greater storm coverage than currently anticipated.
For residents across Delmarva and the surrounding Mid-Atlantic, the greatest concern will be from late afternoon into the evening hours. While not everyone will experience severe weather, those that do could encounter damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning, torrential rainfall, and isolated hail.
Stay weather aware throughout Friday and have multiple ways to receive warnings, especially if you have outdoor plans. Forecast details will continue to be refined as newer data become available, but Friday currently appears to present the more significant severe weather threat compared to Thursday.
Delaware transportation officials are alerting drivers about upcoming tree removal operations scheduled for three separate locations over the next seven days.
The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) says the initial project will take place this Sunday morning, April 14th, along southbound Route 141. The work zone will span from Alapocas Drive to the Tyler McConnell Bridge, with crews operating between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.
DelDOT has not yet released details about the timing and locations of the remaining two tree removal projects planned for the week.
State officials announced today they have reached a preliminary agreement to acquire a Delaware State University facility that will serve as the foundation for expanding homeless services in Kent County.
Governor Meyer, working alongside the Delaware State Housing Authority, revealed the agreement in principle to purchase the university’s Living and Learning Commons located in Dover. The acquisition represents a significant development in efforts to bring the Hope Center approach to Kent County.
The announcement follows Governor Meyer’s establishment of the Delaware Interagency Collaborative to End Homelessness, marking continued progress in the administration’s strategy to address housing challenges across the state.
Rehoboth Beach has wrapped up its 2026 restaurant inspection program, marking the completion of a joint effort between the city’s code enforcement and wastewater departments. Officials examined 98 out of 107 restaurants, with just one establishment failing to pass due to incomplete documentation.
Among the 68 food establishments that serve alcohol and were checked for permit compliance, 97% successfully passed their inspections. City officials report that businesses which didn’t meet requirements are working with municipal staff to address their compliance problems.
The positive results stem from the city’s new approach to restaurant oversight, featuring better coordination in their annual inspection program. Code enforcement teams handled permit compliance checks, while wastewater personnel separately examined grease, oil, and fat management using uniform checklists and shared monitoring systems. Officials say this strategy transforms the city’s approach from responding to problems after they occur to preventing them beforehand. The structured yearly inspection schedule helps restaurant owners know what’s expected, ensures fair treatment across all businesses, enhances record maintenance, and catches minor problems before they develop into serious operational or infrastructure challenges.
Claymont — The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) is alerting drivers about upcoming ramp closures at the I-95/Naamans Road interchange for hazardous tree removal operations.
Traffic restrictions will affect the interchange ramps individually, beginning Saturday, June 13th at 6:00 am with the closure of the ramp connecting Naamans Road to northbound I-95. This closure is scheduled to last until 3:00 pm.
Later that same day, June 13th, the second phase will involve shutting down the ramp leading from southbound I-95 to Naamans Road.
Federal weather officials confirmed Thursday that El Nino weather patterns have formed and are anticipated to grow stronger through the winter of 2026-27, according to the U.S. Climate Prediction Center.
The government weather agency noted that these El Nino conditions have emerged during the past month.
El Nino represents a natural climate event that happens when trade winds weaken, allowing warmer ocean temperatures to accumulate across the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. This weather pattern generally results in elevated global temperatures and shifts in weather systems, creating drought conditions in certain areas while producing excessive rainfall in others.
“El Nino is likely to have a negative impact on crop yields in Southeast Asia and India, where El Nino is typically associated with below-normal rainfall,” said Kyle Tapley, enterprise sales executive at Vaisala Xweather’s WeatherDesk.
India’s monsoon season provides approximately 70% of the nation’s annual precipitation and remains crucial for its farming industry, which represents roughly 18% of the country’s nearly $4 trillion economy. Reduced rainfall amounts could result in diminished harvests for crops including rice, cotton and soybeans, while also affecting winter crop production.
In Indonesia, rice producers are working to plant earlier than usual as they prepare for potential extended dry conditions this year. Malaysia’s economic minister has cautioned that El Nino may reduce crop production by 8% to 10% on average during this period.
“El Nino typically leads to a less-active U.S. hurricane season and we expect a below-normal Atlantic hurricane season this year. However, it is important to remember that a strong hurricane is still possible even in a less-active hurricane season,” Tapley said.
The current U.S. hurricane season started June 1 and continues until November 30.
Drivers traveling on westbound Route 14 in the Milford area should expect lane restrictions due to ongoing construction work.
The right shoulder is currently closed on the Milford Harrington Highway between Church Hill Road and Canterbury Road (Route 15) as crews perform construction activities.
Officials say the shoulder closure will remain in place until 5 PM today. Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the work zone and allow extra time for their commute.
SALISBURY, Maryland — Officials in Salisbury, Maryland have announced they’re bringing back and significantly expanding their no-cost summer programs aimed at keeping young people active while providing nutritious meals to families throughout the area.
The Game On! initiative, which proved successful during its inaugural year, will return to Lake Street Playground while also launching at Doverdale Park and Playground for the first time. Officials say the decision to add Doverdale demonstrates how well-received the program has been and shows the city’s dedication to delivering community-focused recreational opportunities to additional neighborhoods.
City Council President April Jackson partnered with the city to develop Game On! with the goal of making organized recreational activities and outdoor fun more accessible in municipal parks, ensuring children remain physically active and socially connected in their own neighborhoods.
Families can participate in Game On! at no cost without needing to sign up in advance. A pair of part-time recreational staff will be present to facilitate games, coordinate activities, and foster an inclusive atmosphere where kids can participate in active recreation all summer long. The program operates weekdays from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., running from July 1 through August 14, 2026.
Additionally, complimentary lunch service for youth under 18 will be available at both Game On! sites Monday through Friday at noon, through a collaboration with Wicomico County Public Schools Food and Nutrition Services.
Official launch activities are scheduled for June 30, 2026, with celebration events happening from 10 a.m. to noon at both Lake Street Playground and Doverdale Park and Playground. The launch festivities will include inflatable bounce attractions, refreshments, and numerous games and activities for children.
“I’m excited to see these programs grow and reach more young people across our community,” said Community Relations Manager Rachel Manning. “This summer, I hope even more youth will take advantage of the chance to get outside, make new friends, and have fun.”
City officials are also promoting enhanced summer offerings at the Newton Community Center, which will operate Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Free lunch service will be provided there as well at noon daily for children under 18. The Newton Community Center remains a secure, inclusive environment for youth during summer break, providing recreation, social connection, and reliable meal access.
“These programs are an investment in our neighborhoods and our youth,” said Mayor Randy Taylor, “By providing free meals and activities throughout the summer, we are creating more opportunities for children and families right here in Salisbury.”
Combined, these initiatives demonstrate the city’s continued dedication to offering accessible, community-centered opportunities that promote youth development, encourage physical activity, and guarantee children receive proper nutrition during the summer period.
Event Details:
Kickoff Event: June 30, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Locations: Lake Street Playground & Doverdale Playground | Salisbury, MD
Complete program information is available at the City of Salisbury’s website: https://salisbury.md/departments/housing-community-development/youth-development
The University of Delaware softball program has elevated one of its coaching staff members to a higher position within the organization.
Nikki Andrade has been elevated to associate head coach while maintaining her current responsibilities as recruiting coordinator, according to an announcement made by head coach Jen Steele on Wednesday, June 10.
The promotion represents a significant advancement for Andrade within the Blue Hens softball program structure.
The latest U.S. Drought Monitor paints an increasingly concerning picture across the Mid-Atlantic, with portions of the Delmarva Peninsula now classified under Extreme Drought (D3) conditions as prolonged rainfall deficits continue to take a toll on the region.
The expansion of Extreme Drought marks another significant step in a worsening pattern that has developed over recent months. Much of the Mid-Atlantic continues to experience varying levels of drought intensity, with widespread Moderate to Severe Drought surrounding the hardest-hit areas and abnormally dry conditions extending well beyond them. The U.S. Drought Monitor is updated every Thursday using a combination of precipitation data, soil moisture observations, streamflow measurements, groundwater information, and reports from local experts. Recent updates show the continued deterioration of conditions across parts of Delmarva and the surrounding region.
For residents across Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore, the impacts are becoming increasingly visible. Dry soils, stressed vegetation, declining streamflows, and growing concerns for agriculture are all consequences of the prolonged lack of meaningful rainfall. The ongoing dryness also raises the risk of brush and woodland fires, especially during periods of low humidity and gusty winds.
Water managers and agricultural interests will be closely monitoring conditions through the summer, particularly if the region experiences additional stretches of hot weather with limited precipitation. While scattered thunderstorms can provide localized relief, they often fail to deliver the widespread soaking rainfall needed to significantly improve long-term drought conditions.
The drought also comes after an exceptionally dry spring across parts of the Mid-Atlantic. Climate data indicate that Delaware experienced one of its driest meteorological springs on record, helping to intensify moisture deficits that have persisted into early summer.
Looking ahead, meaningful and widespread rainfall will be needed over an extended period to reverse the growing deficits. Until then, residents should remain mindful of local burn restrictions, practice water conservation when possible, and stay informed as drought conditions continue to evolve across the region.
Federal weather officials confirmed today that El Niño has officially developed in the tropical Pacific Ocean, with forecasters issuing an El Niño Advisory as the climate phenomenon is anticipated to grow stronger through the fall season.
The National Weather Service announced that El Niño, which represents the warm phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation climate pattern, is projected to reach moderate or strong intensity this autumn. Weather experts predict a 63% probability that sea surface temperatures will rise more than 2.0°C above normal in the Pacific monitoring zone. Should temperatures cross this threshold, NOAA would classify the event as a “very strong” El Niño.
El Niño occurs when equatorial Pacific Ocean temperatures climb 0.5°C above typical levels for multiple consecutive months. Weather scientists also track atmospheric conditions over this Pacific region, monitoring for changes in the Walker Circulation – a large-scale east-to-west airflow pattern created by temperature and pressure variations between the warm western Pacific and cooler eastern waters. El Niño is declared when this circulation pattern weakens and warmer waters move eastward toward South America.
The climate pattern typically reaches peak strength during winter months, with its most significant global effects occurring during northern hemisphere winter seasons. During typical El Niño winters, the jet stream over the northern Pacific tends to move southward, directing storm systems across the southern portion of the United States. This southward shift also creates drier conditions over the Northern Rockies and Ohio and Tennessee river valleys. Temperature-wise, El Niño frequently produces warmer than normal winter conditions across northern U.S. regions.
“Every El Niño is not the same; each one is unique with its own imprint on our weather,” stated Ken Graham, director of NOAA’s National Weather Service. “Advanced monitoring and an improved understanding of El Niño patterns allow the NWS to better predict and better prepare the public and our core partners for what is to come.”
Common El Niño impacts include stronger upper-level winds that typically reduce storm and hurricane formation in the Atlantic Basin, while weaker winds encourage tropical development in the eastern and central Pacific regions. The phenomenon also brings stormier conditions to the Southern U.S., increasing chances for both rain and snow during El Niño winters.
High tide flooding risks may increase in parts of the United States, particularly along the West Coast. The climate pattern also affects marine life migration patterns, with warm water species moving northward while cold water species relocate farther north or into deeper waters. These behavioral shifts impact fish growth, survival, and reproduction rates. Previous El Niño episodes have also contributed to increased harmful algal bloom formation along the U.S. West Coast.
In February, NOAA officially began using the Relative Oceanic Niño Index for monitoring sea surface temperatures and predicting El Niño and La Niña events. Unlike the traditional Oceanic Niño Index, which uses a fixed 30-year temperature baseline, the new index updates monthly, providing more reliable identification of climate events.
NOAA’s climate monitoring team has tracked both the traditional and new indices since 2021. After observing several years of climate phases and corresponding atmospheric responses, scientists determined that the new index better correlates with expected Walker Circulation changes, offering more valuable information to weather experts, emergency managers, and the public.
Motorists traveling southbound on Route 13 should expect delays due to a construction-related lane closure between Hessler Boulevard and Memorial Drive.
The right lane is currently blocked off for construction activities and will remain closed until 3:30 PM this afternoon.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when passing through the work zone area.
State environmental officials are proceeding with dredging operations on the Indian River near Millsboro, working to enhance navigation channels for boaters while supporting wetland restoration efforts in the area.
DNREC has lifted typical seasonal timing restrictions for the project, determining that the environmental benefits of completing the marsh restoration work outweigh potential negative impacts. Officials cite degraded water flow conditions in the region as justification for allowing the dual projects to move forward during summer months.
The dredging and restoration work is scheduled to run through March 2027, with operations focusing on improving the waterway’s navigation channel while restoring nearby tidal marsh areas.
Drivers traveling on southbound Peachtree Run Road will encounter a shoulder closure between Sunny Meadow Drive and Jericho Road that is expected to last until 6 PM today.
The temporary closure is affecting traffic flow in the area, and motorists are advised to plan accordingly for potential delays.
No additional details about the reason for the closure or expected completion time beyond 6 PM were immediately available.
Drivers should expect delays on a busy stretch of Foulk Road today as construction crews have shut down the right lane of southbound traffic.
The lane closure affects the section of Foulk Road running between Silverside Road and Chatham Drive, where construction activities are currently underway.
Transportation officials indicate the right lane restriction will remain active until 3:30 PM this afternoon. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and merge safely when approaching the work zone.
Drivers traveling northbound on S DuPont Boulevard should expect delays today as construction crews have closed the right shoulder of the roadway.
The shoulder closure affects the stretch of highway between Big Woods Road and Cathleen Drive, according to traffic officials.
The construction-related closure is expected to remain in place until 3 PM today. Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the work zone and allow extra time for their commute.
A Heat Advisory remains in effect for northern Delaware and surrounding areas through Friday evening as dangerous heat and humidity grip the region. The National Weather Service warns heat index values could reach 104 degrees, creating potentially hazardous conditions for residents.
New Castle County is included in the advisory, which runs from 11 AM today through 8 PM Friday. The combination of high temperatures and oppressive humidity may lead to heat-related illnesses, particularly for those spending extended time outdoors.
Health officials urge residents to take precautions: drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. If you must be outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours.
Check on elderly relatives and neighbors, as they’re especially vulnerable to heat-related health issues. Watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, including dizziness, nausea, and excessive sweating.
Some relief may come from scattered showers and thunderstorms late this afternoon and again Friday afternoon. However, humidity will remain high until a cold front brings much less humid conditions this weekend.
Those without air conditioning can call 211 for assistance finding cooling centers.
Drivers traveling on Indian Town Road eastbound should prepare for potential delays due to ongoing traffic control operations.
According to DelDOT, a flagging operation is currently in effect along the eastbound lanes of Indian Town Road in the stretch between Rebel Road and Hickory Hill Road.
The traffic control activity is expected to remain in place until 5 PM today. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and exercise caution when passing through the work zone.
A Wilmington resident is facing felony drug charges following a traffic stop conducted by Newark Police earlier this month.
Newark Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit pulled over a vehicle on South College Avenue on June 2, 2026, around 10:15 in the morning. The car had been linked to a shoplifting case being investigated by a different law enforcement agency.
During the traffic stop, officers made contact with the driver and subsequently arrested the individual on felony drug-related charges.
The incident remains under investigation by the Newark Police Department.
Motorists traveling on Peach Tree Run should expect delays and plan alternate routes as construction work continues to impact traffic flow in the area.
The roadway between Voshell Mill Star Road and Lochmeath Way is experiencing intermittent lane restrictions that will remain in effect until 6 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time when using this route and to exercise caution when navigating through the construction zone.
Severe thunderstorms ripped across the Midwest on Wednesday, leaving hundreds of thousands in the dark and creating travel chaos at Chicago’s major airports with over 1,000 flight disruptions.
Weather officials issued tornado warnings throughout Illinois, Kansas, northern Missouri and southern Iowa on Wednesday, with severe thunderstorm watches covering portions of the Great Lakes region.
The storm system reached the Chicago metropolitan area Wednesday afternoon, toppling trees and causing structural damage to buildings throughout the region.
Both Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway International Airport issued temporary flight holds Wednesday evening as thunderstorms moved through the area. John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York implemented similar ground stops due to severe weather conditions.
Flight tracking service FlightAware reported that by Wednesday night, more than 1,000 departing and arriving Chicago flights had been either delayed or cancelled.
Powerful winds tore portions of roofing from an apartment complex in the Chicago region, displacing residents, NBC 5 Chicago reported. Additional damage included collapsed barns in Wisconsin, destroyed structures in rural northern Missouri, and numerous fallen trees and power lines throughout the Midwest, as documented in online photos and videos.
Illinois experienced the most significant power disruptions with over 264,000 customers losing electricity, primarily concentrated in Cook County, while Michigan saw nearly 140,000 outages, according to poweroutage.com. Additional blackouts affected Kansas, Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana and Ohio.
Commonwealth Edison Company, the electric utility serving northern Illinois, reported that the storms had brought down electrical poles and transmission lines.
“We know this is challenging and will restore service as safely and quickly as conditions allow,” the company said in a post on X.
A Heat Advisory remains in effect for New Castle County and surrounding areas through Friday at 8 PM, with heat index values expected to reach a dangerous 104 degrees.
The National Weather Service issued the advisory early this morning, warning residents in northern Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania including Philadelphia, and parts of southern New Jersey to prepare for potentially dangerous heat and humidity conditions from 11 AM today through Friday evening.
The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity could lead to heat-related illnesses, particularly for vulnerable populations including the elderly, children, and those working outdoors.
Health officials urge residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. If you must be outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours.
Some relief may come in the form of scattered showers and thunderstorms late this afternoon and again Friday afternoon, though humidity levels will remain high. Cooler, less humid conditions are expected this weekend following a cold front.
Residents without air conditioning can call 211 for assistance finding cooling centers. Check on elderly neighbors and relatives during this heat event.
Good morning, Delmarva! We’re starting this Thursday with some patchy fog across the peninsula, but don’t let that fool you – it’s going to be a hot one today! That early morning fog will clear out by 8 AM, along with just a slight chance of some early showers or thunderstorms. Once we get past the morning, expect partly sunny skies with temperatures climbing to a toasty 94 degrees. With the humidity factored in, it’s going to feel like 101 degrees out there, so please stay hydrated and take breaks in the air conditioning if you’re working outside. We’ll have a light west wind at 5 to 10 mph to provide just a little relief.
Tonight brings our low down to a more comfortable 74 degrees, though we’re tracking another chance for showers and thunderstorms. Looking ahead to Friday, we’re expecting mostly sunny skies early with temperatures reaching 95 degrees, but another slight chance for afternoon and evening storms.
Stay cool and safe out there, Delmarva! I’m your meteorologist reminding you to beat the heat and have a great Thursday!
A Heat Advisory is now in effect for New Castle County and surrounding areas through Friday evening at 8 PM, with heat index values expected to reach up to 104 degrees.
The National Weather Service issued the advisory early this morning for New Castle County in Delaware, along with parts of New Jersey including Mercer, Camden, Gloucester, and Northwestern Burlington counties, and several Pennsylvania counties including Philadelphia, Delaware, Eastern Chester, Eastern Montgomery, and Lower Bucks.
The dangerous heat and humidity combination poses a risk for heat-related illnesses. Health officials urge residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay indoors in air conditioning when possible, and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
If you must go outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours. Check on elderly relatives and neighbors, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Some relief may come from scattered showers and thunderstorms expected late this afternoon and again Friday afternoon, though humidity will remain high. Much drier conditions are forecast for the weekend behind a passing cold front.
For those without air conditioning, call 211 or visit your local health department website for cooling center locations.
Drivers traveling eastbound on Kirkwood Highway near Capitol Trail should expect delays due to construction activity affecting traffic flow.
The right lane is currently blocked between Harmony Road and Meadowood Drive as crews work in the area. The lane restriction is scheduled to remain in place until 6:00 AM.
Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the construction zone and consider alternate routes if possible to avoid potential delays.
A Heat Advisory remains in effect for New Castle County and surrounding areas through 8 PM Friday as dangerous heat index values climb to 104 degrees.
The National Weather Service issued the advisory early this morning, warning residents in northern Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania, and southern New Jersey to take precautions against heat-related illness. The advisory covers New Castle County in Delaware, along with Philadelphia, parts of Chester, Montgomery, and Bucks counties in Pennsylvania.
The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity creates potentially dangerous conditions from 11 AM today through Friday evening. While scattered thunderstorms may provide temporary relief late this afternoon and Friday evening, humidity levels will remain elevated until a cold front moves through this weekend.
Health officials urge residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay indoors in air conditioning when possible, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit outdoor activities to early morning or evening hours.
Check on elderly relatives and neighbors, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion including dizziness, nausea, and excessive sweating. Those without air conditioning can call 211 for assistance finding cooling centers.
Relief is expected this weekend as cooler, less humid air moves into the region.
Motorists traveling on westbound Naamans Road are experiencing delays after a vehicle accident forced authorities to shut down the right lane near Dartmouth Woods Road.
The lane closure remains in effect as emergency responders work at the crash site. Drivers are advised to use caution when traveling through the area and expect possible delays.
No additional details about the collision have been released at this time.
A Heat Advisory is now in effect for parts of the Delmarva Peninsula as dangerously hot weather moves into our region. The National Weather Service has issued the advisory for New Castle County in Delaware, with heat index values expected to climb as high as 104 degrees.
The advisory runs from 11 AM Thursday through 8 PM Friday, affecting not only northern Delaware but also portions of southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey, including the Philadelphia metro area.
Health officials are urging residents to take precautions during this potentially dangerous heat wave. Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces when possible, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing if you must go outside.
Check on elderly relatives and neighbors, as they face higher risks during extreme heat events. If you don’t have air conditioning at home, call 211 for information about cooling centers in your area.
There is some good news ahead – scattered thunderstorms Thursday and Friday afternoons may provide temporary relief, and a cold front will bring less humid conditions this weekend. The current heat advisory expires Friday evening at 8 PM.
The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for northern Delaware and surrounding areas, warning of dangerous heat index values reaching up to 104 degrees from Thursday morning through Friday evening.
New Castle County and neighboring regions in southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey will experience the most intense heat from 11 AM Thursday until 8 PM Friday. The combination of high temperatures and humidity creates potentially dangerous conditions that could lead to heat-related illnesses.
“This is serious heat that residents need to take precautions against,” said meteorologists, who are forecasting some relief in the form of afternoon thunderstorms both Thursday and Friday, though humidity levels will remain high.
Health officials urge residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces when possible, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. When venturing outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours.
Pay special attention to elderly neighbors and relatives during this heat wave. If you don’t have air conditioning, call 211 or contact your local health department for information on cooling centers.
Relief is expected this weekend when a cold front moves through, bringing much lower humidity levels to the region.
