Expect rain and more rain today with wind advisories for Kent and Sussex counties in Delaware and gusts of up to 50 mph.
Forecasters expect up to four inches of rain in the region with street flooding possible in northern Delaware and minor coastal flooding this morning’s high tide along the Upper Bay the Delaware Bay and the tidal Delaware river.
There are reports of moderate flooding along the Christina River at Cooch's Bridge in New Castle County, Del. The river was forecast to crest Wednesday morning near 11.9 feet. That's 1.4 feet above flood stage.
A flood watch is in effect until 1 p.m. in Cecil County.
There is a flood warning in effect for the Christina River that is expected to crest this morning before receding later today.
There are also gale warnings for the Chesapeake and Delaware bays from this evening through tomorrow night.
In western Maryland the National Weather Service expects 6-to-9 inches of snow for Garret County.
The forecast expects rain and freezing rain could bring up to a quarter-inch of ice before the snow hits.
Traveling
Meanwhile, AAA Mid-Atlantic expects around 819,000 motorists to hit the road in Maryland.
With the rain and snow the motoring group’s Christine Delise reminds motorists to prepare for a tough drive.
"So, we're advising motorists to delay their trip if at all possible. Wait until late Wednesday evening or even possibly Thursday to travel.
She tells motorists that they should be prepared.
"Bridges and overpasses tend to freeze first," she say. "So, use extra caution. Never use cruise control as you need to be in full control of your vehicle at any moment. And, also be sure to pack that emergency roadside kit with everything from ice scrapers to some kind of abrasive material like sand or cat litter if you are stuck in snow." She adds, "Blankets, warning devices such as flares or triangles. And some non-perishable snacks and water."
Gas Prices
Gas prices in Maryland are now averaging $3.40 a gallon with $3.37 a gallon in Salisbury.
Delise says gas prices have been edging up.
"The main problem was that there were refinery maintenance issues in regions across the country including the gulf coast."
She adds, "The gulf coast supplies gasoline to the mid Atlantic area. But prices are lower than this time last year wehn people were heading off to their Thanksgivng holiday travel."
Safe Holiday Campaign
Meanwhile, Delaware highway safety officials are reminding motorists to take it easy as they travel during the holiday.
Today marks the start of Delaware’s annual Safe Family Holiday Campaign.
28 local law enforcement agencies and the Delaware State Police will be carrying out overtime patrols that will focus on aggressive driving, drunken driving and seat belt use.
The campaign runs through December 7th and again from during the Christmas holidays from December 19th through the 28th.
