As Canada faces a tumultuous winter season, the nation is preparing for severe winter storms, bringing rain and snow to various regions. Environment Canada has issued warnings across multiple provinces, advising residents to brace for significant weather changes and potential travel disruptions.
Winter Storms Hit the Atlantic Provinces
In Nova Scotia, a yellow winter storm warning is in effect for counties including Victoria, Inverness, Antigonish, Pictou, and northern Colchester. Light snow is anticipated to evolve into heavier snowfall by the evening. Environment Canada forecasts total snow accumulation of between 25 and 40 centimetres, accompanied by wind gusts reaching 80 to 90 km/h.
- Areas under yellow warning in Nova Scotia include:
- Colchester County
- Cumberland County
- Queens County, P.E.I.
- Orange winter storm warnings have been issued for:
- Bay of Exploits
- Gander
Residents should be cautious while traveling, as visibility may drastically decrease due to intense snowfall. Conditions are expected to improve by Monday morning.
Weather Conditions in Newfoundland and P.E.I.
In Newfoundland, a yellow warning indicates snowfall beginning Sunday evening. Regions like western and central Newfoundland could see 20 to 35 cm of snow, with conditions expected to persist into Tuesday morning. The Great Northern Peninsula may also experience similar weather patterns starting early Monday.
In Prince Edward Island, Kings County is bracing for significant snowfall, and a warning is also in place for parts of Queens County.
Prairies Experience Freezing Rain and Snowfall
The Prairie provinces have dropped their cold warnings but continue to face freezing rain and snowfall warnings. Areas like central Alberta, spanning from Grande Cache to St. Paul, are under threat from freezing rain, while parts of Saskatchewan, including Lloydminster, are also warned about slippery conditions.
Forecasts predict total snowfall of 20 to 30 cm in western Alberta over the upcoming days. Residents should take precautions against icy roads and sidewalks.
Rain and Snow in British Columbia
British Columbia is not exempt from adverse weather conditions. Yellow warnings indicate rainfall expected to reach between 50 and 70 cm in Metro Vancouver, affecting cities like Vancouver, Burnaby, and Whistler. Heavier rainfall is projected to begin in the evening, tapering off into Monday afternoon.
- Key snowfall warnings are in place for:
- Fort Nelson: 20-30 cm
- Atlin and Haines Junction: 15-25 cm
Looking Ahead
Ontario will also face adverse weather, with snow squall warnings affecting areas such as London and Barrie. Accumulations of 5 to 15 cm are anticipated, and some locations may see up to 40 cm as snow squalls develop off Lake Huron.
As winter storms sweep across Canada, residents are urged to stay informed and exercise caution during travel and outdoor activities. Preparing for severe winter weather is essential to ensuring safety during this tumultuous season.
