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Delaware · Risk Readiness
What's actually likely where you live.
Before the emergency — maps, tools, and the honest picture of what Delaware throws at different parts of the state.
See DE hazardsDE hazard profile
Primary hazards. Ranked.
Delaware's low elevation and Delaware Bay position make it highly vulnerable to hurricane storm surge. Sandy (2012) caused $76M in damage across the state, flooded coastal communities, and caused significant damage to the Rehoboth and Lewes areas. A direct major hurricane hit on the Delaware coast would push surge far inland across the flat topography. Delaware's Atlantic and Delaware Bay coastlines face regular nor'easter flooding. The Rehoboth, Bethany Beach, and Fenwick Island resort communities flood with every significant nor'easter. Tidal flooding in Lewes and New Castle is increasingly frequent as sea levels rise — some areas now flood during routine high tides without storms. The Christina, Brandywine, and Red Clay rivers flood the Wilmington metro regularly. The March 2011 flooding caused $30M in damage across northern Delaware. Heavy rain events saturate Delaware's flat terrain quickly — drainage is slow and flooding can persist for days. Agricultural flooding in Sussex County is increasingly common.
Hurricanes & tropical storms
Direct landfalls and tropical moisture bring catastrophic wind, surge, and inland flooding.
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Flooding
Flash floods, river flooding, and coastal surge affect low-lying areas and river corridors.
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Winter ice & snow storms
Ice accumulation causes prolonged power outages and road closures across the state.
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Heat waves
Extreme heat events endanger vulnerable residents and stress power infrastructure.
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Official tools
Look up your address. Know your risk.
FEMA Flood Zone Lookup
Enter your address to see your flood zone designation and insurance requirements.
Source: FEMA
USGS Earthquake Map
Real-time earthquake activity and seismic hazard maps for your region.
Source: USGS
Wildfire Risk Score
Your property's wildfire exposure score based on vegetation, terrain, and proximity to wildland.
Source: USFS
River Gauges
Real-time river levels and flood stage by county.
Source: USGS WaterWatch
Drought Monitor
Weekly drought conditions by county.
Source: US Drought Monitor
Private Well Resources
Water quality guidance for households on private wells.
Source: EPA
Insurance gaps
What your homeowner's policy doesn't cover.
Standard homeowner's policies in Delaware exclude flood damage. Flood insurance through the NFIP has a 30-day waiting period — it cannot be purchased when a storm is forecast. Check your declarations page annually to confirm your coverage limits and deductibles.
Not in your standard policy
Flood damage — requires NFIP or private flood policy
Earthquake damage — requires separate endorsement
Sewer & drain backup — requires endorsement ($50–$100/yr)
Landslide / mudflow — generally excluded
Next steps
Where do you want to go next?
During an emergency
Find alerts, contacts, and shelters.
NC emergency contacts, alert signups, and real-time information.
Local EmergencyGet prepared
Run through the DE checklist.
Step-by-step actions based on the hazards that apply to Delaware.
DE Checklists