City officials in Rehoboth Beach have released comprehensive data about their response to the devastating late February snowstorm that buried the coastal community under more than 18 inches of snow and brought destructive winds. Longtime residents described the weather event as the most severe winter storm they have ever experienced.
Municipal crews have been operating continuously to remove snow accumulation, clear fallen tree branches and debris, and return the community to normal operations. City officials emphasized that these recovery efforts were made possible through the unwavering commitment of municipal employees.
Streets Department Operations
During the height of the storm, the Streets Department deployed 8 crew members working extended 12-hour shifts. The department’s fleet of 9 snow plows operated throughout the city both during and after the snowfall. Crews applied roughly 8 tons of road salt across city streets during the operation.
Emergency Communications Response
The city’s 9-1-1 Communications Center maintained 12-hour shifts throughout the storm period, with 2 to 3 dispatchers cycling through each shift. Between 1 p.m. Sunday and 7 a.m. Tuesday, emergency communications staff handled 370 total calls and managed 90 separate incidents.
Within city boundaries, dispatchers responded to 30 incidents, with 25 of those involving downed trees or power lines. Beyond the city limits, dispatch personnel worked alongside the County Emergency Operations Center and National Guard units to coordinate assistance for calls originating from the Angola region.
Officials indicated they will release additional data regarding tree and debris removal operations once those cleanup efforts are finished.
