This week, frigid winter weather is set to impact the Maritimes as a polar air mass moves into the region. Beginning late Thursday and continuing into Friday, central and eastern Canada will experience significant temperature drops combined with gusty winds, marking the coldest conditions of the season so far.
Cold Front Arrival
An incoming cold front is set to transform the weather across the Maritimes. The front will shift winds to the northwest, resulting in a transition from showers to flurries. As temperatures decline, slick driving conditions will pose risks for commuters throughout New Brunswick and northern Nova Scotia.
Snow Accumulation Expectations
Snowfall is expected to begin Thursday evening, with projections suggesting a widespread accumulation of up to five centimeters by Friday morning. Certain areas, particularly higher terrains, could see totals reach ten centimeters or more.
- Snow accumulation of up to 5 cm expected for most regions
- Higher terrains may receive up to 10 cm
- Northumberland Shore and Cape Breton may face whiteout conditions
Snow Squalls and Icy Conditions
The risk of snow squalls will diminish for mainland Nova Scotia by Friday afternoon, but will persist for Cape Breton into the night. Regions like Inverness and Victoria Counties could see localized totals rise to 30 centimeters.
Wind and Temperature Alerts
Winds will be a significant factor, gusting between 50 to 70 km/h across most areas. Coastal regions may experience even stronger gusts of 70 to 90 km/h. Temperatures are expected to plummet to the ranges of –12°C to –18°C in Nova Scotia and –16°C to –20°C in New Brunswick.
With wind chill factors, temperatures will feel between –20°C and –30°C, making this a severe midwinter event.
Outlook for the Weekend
As the weekend approaches, winds are expected to ease, but high temperatures will remain between –4°C and –10°C, keeping wind chills in the minus teens across the Maritimes. Relief from the extreme cold is anticipated on Saturday and Sunday, accompanied by additional flurries.
As we look ahead to early next week, even colder air is expected to sweep in behind the weekend front, ensuring that winter weather will remain a prominent feature in the Maritimes for the time being.
