Delmarva Power Outage Knocks Out Smyrna Traffic Signals; Drivers Urged to Treat Intersections as Four-Way Stops

A delmarva power outage in Smyrna knocked out multiple traffic signals, and the Delaware Department of Transportation warned drivers to exercise extra caution as crews work to resolve the electrical problems.

Delmarva Power Outage cuts signals in Smyrna

Multiple traffic lights in Smyrna were knocked out, creating potentially hazardous driving conditions across the area. DelDOT alerted motorists that the signal failures mean intersections are not functioning normally and emphasized caution for both motorists and pedestrians.

How drivers should navigate dark intersections

When traffic signals are not functioning, drivers should treat intersections as four-way stops: come to a complete stop and yield to the vehicle that arrived first. DelDOT warned that failing signals can increase risk at crossings, and urged drivers to slow down, look for pedestrians and follow the four-way stop protocol until power is restored.

DelDOT: no restoration time yet; plan for delays

DelDOT has not provided an estimated time for when the signals will be restored, noting that repairs depend on when power is returned to the affected areas. Residents and commuters should plan for delays and consider alternate routes if possible while crews work to resolve the electrical issues.

The department’s guidance focuses on immediate safety steps at dark intersections and on minimizing travel disruption: stop fully at intersections, yield to the first-arriving vehicle and expect delays along affected corridors. Crews are actively working to address the electrical problems, but no timetable for restoration has been posted.

Officials continue to advise caution for anyone driving through Smyrna. With multiple signals out and no estimated restoration time, the emphasis remains on treating intersections as four-way stops, slowing for pedestrians and seeking alternate routes when feasible.