Avoid travel as strong storm brings significant snow and blizzard conditions
Blizzard conditions expected in parts of Atlantic Canada as winter storm starts off this week
Brace for disruptions across parts of Atlantic Canada as a strong winter storm advances up the East Coast.
The system is expected to rapidly intensify near Newfoundland, bringing heavy snow and strong winds. Some areas are likely to experience blizzard conditions along its path, and non-essential travel is not recommended Monday evening and overnight.
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Widespread warnings are in effect, including wind warnings, with gusts between 100-130 km/h expected. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items that strong winds could lift, prepare for potential prolonged power outages, and keep mobile devices fully charged.
Heavy snow forces school closures in Nova Scotia Monday
An intensifying low-pressure system moved up the East Coast Sunday night, leading to hazardous conditions into Monday. Some Nova Scotia schools closed early Monday as wintry weather impacted the province.
An additional 5-15+ cm of snow is expected before conditions ease Monday afternoon, with higher totals forecast for western Cape Breton and areas near the Northumberland Strait.
A scene from Halifax, N.S., Monday morning. (Nathan Coleman/The Weather Network)
Dangerous blizzard conditions likely across Newfoundland
Rain is expected across Newfoundland's Avalon Peninsula on Monday, transitioning to snow by evening. Central and western Newfoundland can expect heavy snow and mixing, with sea-effect snow and widespread blowing snow developing through the evening and overnight.
Wind gusts will intensify Monday afternoon, reaching 100-130 km/h for many areas, with coastal regions potentially exceeding 130 km/h. These strong winds will contribute to blizzard conditions in central and western Newfoundland and widespread blowing snow across the island.
Non-essential travel is not recommended Monday evening and overnight due to hazardous conditions.
Likely impacts include closures, outages
Anyone can easily become disoriented in near-zero visibility, even just venturing a short distance away from safe shelter. Power outages and tree damage are likely amid the storm’s high winds.
Expect school closures and activity cancellations as a result of this storm.
Widespread travel delays are likely, including ferry delays and cancellations. Strong winds may easily exceed the safe operating limits of passenger flights into and out of the region, prompting additional delays and cancellations.
Between 20-40 cm of snow is forecast before easing through Tuesday. Strong winds however, will persist throughout the day, continuing to cause blowing and drifting snow.
Reduced visibility and challenging travel conditions are likely to remain despite lighter snowfall.
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Be sure to check back for the latest weather updates across Atlantic Canada.