1230 Hours, Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2010: Sussex County residents still digging out from the 8 inches of snow that fell this past weekend should keep the shovels and salt handy: more snow is on the way, beginning, appropriately enough, later today on this Groundhog Day 2010.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for Sussex County, from 7 p.m. Tuesday until 7 a.m. Wednesday, as another southern storm is forecast to dust the region with 1 to 3 inches of snow. That could foreshadow more winter weather to come, as yet another storm is possible this weekend, according to forecasters.

Emergency officials are urging the public to use caution if traveling, and to be prepared at all times for the possibility of winter weather. All motorists should have basic supplies on hand, including an ice scraper, blankets, sand or cat litter, de-icer and a full tank of gas.

“Although the forecast is for a minor snowfall event, that along with this past weekend’s weather could cause problems, particularly with driving,” Emergency Operations Center Director Joseph L. Thomas said. “We urge motorists to slow down and allow some extra room between themselves and other drivers. And everyone should keep a watchful eye on the upcoming weekend forecast, as a more significant storm appears possible.”

Most roads in the county are now clear of this past weekend’s snow, but those routes could quickly ice over with any daytime snow melt today and new snowfall overnight.

The Sussex County Emergency Operations Center will continue to monitor forecasts for this evening’s expected weather and the possible winter storm this weekend. Further updates will be issued should they become necessary.

For updates, stay tuned to local television and radio stations, and the Sussex County EOC Web site, at sussexcountyde.gov/services/storm.

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