Residents on the Avalon Peninsula faced significant challenges following a powerful snowstorm that struck on Sunday. The region experienced heavy snowfall and high winds, creating difficult conditions for cleanup operations.
Avalon Peninsula Snowstorm Impacts Metrobus Services
Due to the adverse weather, Metrobus services were suspended on Monday, with plans for updates scheduled at noon. The storm has resulted in widespread power outages, affecting thousands in the metro area. Newfoundland Power announced on social media that blizzard conditions severely impacted the electric grid in the eastern part of the island.
Power Outages and Emergency Services
- Approximately 1,500 customers in Kelligrews are without power.
- Hundreds more are affected across the metro area, including:
- Over 200 customers on Salmonier Line.
- About 500 customers in Heart’s Content-New Perlican.
- Power is expected to be restored to Kelligrews by 7:00 p.m.
Earlier in the day, residents in Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s and the Burin Peninsula also experienced outages, although those have reportedly been restored. Authorities warned of treacherous road conditions due to whiteout situations caused by high winds, urging residents to stay indoors unless travel was necessary.
Community Response and Closures
The City of St. John’s closed several roads in the Galway area and parts of Cochrane Pond Road due to heavy drifting snow and low visibility. Additionally, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) advised caution for those on the roads, while the RCMP echoed these safety concerns across the province.
Due to the severe weather, multiple events were canceled, including watch parties for the Olympic gold medal hockey game. Health services announced that the Urgent Care Centre on Stavanger Drive would remain closed for the day. Various municipal recreation facilities in St. John’s, Mount Pearl, and Conception Bay South were also closed.
Snow Accumulation and Weather Forecast
The Town of Paradise reported that over 120 centimeters of snow had fallen in the past five days, with more anticipated. In St. John’s, weather stations noted snowfall amounts of 15 centimeters at the airport and 30 centimeters in Paradise. Environment Canada indicated the snow would continue through the day, bringing an additional 10 to 15 centimeters.
- Winds were expected to reach speeds of 80 to 100 km/h.
- Environment Canada issued a winter storm warning for the southeastern Avalon Peninsula.
- Blowing snow advisories were also reported, impacting areas from Grand Falls-Windsor to the Avalon Peninsula.
Municipalities emphasized the importance of residents staying off the roads to aid snow clearing efforts. They noted that fewer vehicles make the process more efficient. With ongoing weather-related challenges, local authorities continue to monitor conditions closely and communicate updates to the public.
