Colorado low triggers first major flood risk of the season in Atlantic Canada
A Colorado low will be moving into Atlantic Canada this week, raising the flood threat across the region. As temperatures warm, the snow begins to melt, and heavy rain pushes in, flooding river beds are likely
A strong Colorado low will make its mark across much of central and eastern Canada this week, with flood concerns growing with milder temperatures and heaving rain.
As much as 50 mm of rain could fall across parts of the Maritimes, raising the first major flood risk of the season for the region. With recent frigid temperatures, river ice is strong, and the frozen ground will have a reduced ability to absorb this rainfall.
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Be sure to stay aware of the changing conditions and any weather alerts that are issued in your area.
Wednesday through Thursday: Temperatures warm, heavy rain pushes in, and flood concerns grow across the Maritimes
As the system moves in, snow flurries will gradually lead to mixing Tuesday night across the Maritimes. By Wednesday afternoon, a widespread transition to rain is expected as temperatures warm well above seasonal values.
The heaviest rain will fall Wednesday night and into Thursday. Between 20-30 mm is forecast across northern New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, with heavier amounts up to 50 mm possible across portions of southern New Brunswick.
A widespread 10-20 mm is forecast in Newfoundland.
Closely watching the Saint John River basin
Monday morning saw temperatures drop to -30°C in northern New Brunswick, meaning river ice is strong, the ground is frozen, and flooding will be a major focus with this system.
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Luckily, the heaviest rain will be over the lower river basin of the Saint John River, where the snowpack is minimal.
The impressive snowpack in the upper Saint John River basin however, can expect a significant melt.
Thursday will bring the first double digit temperatures of the year for many parts of New Brunswick.
A few days of colder weather are expected as the storm departs the region, with an active pattern forecast to take shape through the mid-March mark.
WATCH: Mild weather raises local flooding risk in Atlantic Canada
Be sure to check back for the latest weather updates across Atlantic Canada.