Widespread warnings are in effect for a powerful nor'easter moving through Atlantic Canada. Travel delays and power outages are likely, with as much as 30+ cm of snow and winds gusting to 80+ km/h. Adjust driving plans as needed
Atlantic Canada is under the grip of a powerful nor’easter that is forecast to bring significant snow, strong winds, and challenging travel conditions through Wednesday. Central-eastern Newfoundland is set to face heavy snowfall of 15-30 cm or more, with gusts reaching 80-100 km/h, creating whiteout conditions Wednesday afternoon. Travel is strongly discouraged.
Southeastern New Brunswick, Cumberland and Colchester counties in Nova Scotia, and P.E.I. are expected to receive 15-30 cm of snow. Meanwhile, coastal areas of Nova Scotia may see heavy rain, which could cause pooling on roadways.
DON'T MISS: New colour-coded Canadian weather alerts have now launched. Here's what they mean if you see them
Travel disruptions, potential road closures, and localized power outages are likely as the system intensifies. As of Wednesday morning, approximately 30,000 utility customers in Nova Scotia were without power, with several schools closing for the day, as well.
Widespread warnings are in effect, and residents should monitor alerts and updates as conditions evolve.
Southern Nova Scotia continues to experience heavy rain Wednesday, with 30-50 mm expected and 50-80 km/h wind gusts, increasing the risk of ponding on roads. Northern areas and higher elevations remain under heavy snowfall throughout the day.
Areas including Saint John, Moncton, Charlottetown, the Annapolis Highland region, Cobequid Mountains, and highways 101, 102, and 104 may experience difficult travel. Confederation Bridge delays or closures are possible.
Colchester and Cumberland counties are forecast to receive 20-30 cm of snow, while snow totals across Cape Breton and other Nova Scotia regions will vary.
DON'T MISS: Arctic air on the loose: Who’s next in line for the freeze?
Conditions are expected to improve by Wednesday afternoo and evening.
Significant snowfall and strong winds will develop Wednesday afternoon across Newfoundland, leading to hazardous winter travel. Snowfall rates could peak at 3-5 cm per hour, with coastal wind gusts reaching 80-100 km/h and inland gusts of 60-80 km/h.
Expect dangerous driving conditions, reduced visibility, whiteout to near-blizzard conditions, slick roads, and rapid snow accumulation. Road, school, and business closures are possible, alongside localized power outages.
MUST SEE: A winter storm's track can make or break your forecast
The heaviest snowfall is predicted for central Newfoundland and western Avalon, while St. John’s will initially see heavy snow, transitioning to ice pellets and then rain in the afternoon. Snowfall totals are expected to reach 20-40 cm for east-central Newfoundland, with 15-25 cm for parts of Avalon. Ice accumulation could lower snow totals if icy conditions persist in St. John’s.
Conditions will temporarily improve Wednesday night, but an Arctic front is forecast to arrive Thursday into Friday, bringing very cold temperatures for Atlantic Canada.
Thursday’s daytime wind chills may feel between -10°C to the -20s.
Stay informed about weather warnings and plan travel accordingly.
Stay with The Weather Network for the latest across Atlantic Canada.
