As a potent nor'easter approaches, snowstorm warnings have been issued across mainland Nova Scotia and southeastern New Brunswick, with Cape Breton and Prince Edward Island also gearing up for severe weather conditions. The forecast predicts substantial snowfall, advising residents to make preparations as winter weather impacts the region this weekend.

Severe Weather Warnings in Effect

The region is bracing for snow totals ranging from 15 to 40 centimeters, starting late Friday night and continuing into Saturday evening. In Nova Scotia, the Annapolis Valley, along with Colchester and Cumberland counties, are under a winter storm warning, expecting between 30 to 40 cm of snow. The snowfall is anticipated to initiate Friday evening and persist through Saturday night, potentially causing significant disruptions.

Meanwhile, eastern mainland Nova Scotia, including Yarmouth, Digby, and Shelburne counties, faces snowfall warnings predicting 20 to 30 cm. Snow in these areas may mix with ice pellets and rain on Saturday morning, complicating travel conditions.

Cape Breton, particularly eastern areas, remains under a special weather statement with expectations of 10 to 15 cm of snow before transitioning to freezing rain and ice pellets Saturday morning. Inverness and Victoria counties are also on alert with a winter storm watch, predicting 20 to 30 cm of snow along with potential snow squalls Saturday evening.

Travel Caution Advised

Prince Edward Island is under a winter storm warning with expected snowfall between 25 to 35 cm, compounded by winds gusting up to 80 km/h. This combination could lead to treacherous whiteout conditions, strongly advising against non-essential travel during the worst weather.

In eastern New Brunswick, similar weather warnings are in effect, with forecasts calling for 15 to 25 cm of snow. The snow is set to commence late Friday night and persist through Saturday evening, amplified by gusty winds reducing visibility dramatically, especially along the coastlines.

Snowfall Outlook

An expansive area is expected to receive significant snow accumulation. Coastal regions and higher terrains of Nova Scotia could witness dreaded snowdrifts, reaching up to 40 cm in spots. Notably, areas east of Halifax through Guysborough County into Cape Breton should prepare for hazardous conditions with potentially 5 to 15 cm of initial snow and ice pellets.

The heaviest snow is anticipated from Friday night to Saturday morning, with lighter flurries to continue Saturday afternoon. Residents in eastern Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island should stay alert for potential snow squalls as cold winds sweep in from the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Wind Impacts and Driving Conditions

Wind gusts from the north and northeast will begin to intensify by Saturday morning, reaching 30 to 60 km/h, and even exceeding 70 km/h in exposed areas along Nova Scotia's Atlantic coast. This means that while the gusts may not officially meet warning criteria, they are strong enough to create hazardous visibility conditions as snow is blown around.

In Prince Edward Island, wind gusts could peak at 60 to 80 km/h Saturday afternoon. Drivers should be acutely aware that poor weather and wind will create treacherous driving conditions throughout the Maritimes, especially for those traveling in snow-covered areas.

Get Prepared Now!

Communities should take proactive measures to stay safe during this extreme weather event. Residents are advised to familiarize themselves with any municipal winter parking bans, ensure snow shovels and snowblowers are accessible and functioning, and to stock up on necessary supplies ahead of the storm hits.

Stay tuned to local weather updates and heed all warnings as the nor'easter bears down on the Maritimes. Take care and stay safe!