A significant snow and ice storm struck New Brunswick, leading to the closure of most schools on Thursday. Conditions worsened across the province, prompting officials to take action for student safety.
School Closures Due to Adverse Weather
As of Thursday, schools across New Brunswick were shut down, with the exception of the Anglophone South district and select schools in the Saint John area. The decision was made considering the dangerous weather conditions forecasted for the day.
Weather Conditions and Warnings
The New Brunswick Department of Transportation and Infrastructure reported that highways were partly to fully covered with snow, ice, and slush as of 6 a.m. on Thursday. A moderate weather warning was issued by Environment Canada at around 5 a.m. for hazardous conditions in northern regions.
Freezing Rain Forecast
- Freezing rain of 5 to 10 mm expected.
- Forecast also included ice pellets.
- Conditions are predicted to improve by early Thursday afternoon.
Travel Advisories
Travelers were discouraged from undertaking non-essential trips. “Roads and walkways will likely be difficult to navigate,” advised Environment Canada. They emphasized preparing for disruptions to transportation, services, and utilities.
Regional Alerts
A yellow alert was in effect for most of New Brunswick on Thursday morning. Central and southern areas faced alerts specifically for freezing rain, which was expected to transition to regular rain throughout the morning.
- Potential for icy and slippery roads.
- Risk of damage from falling ice and branches.
Residents were advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions as the winter storm posed significant safety risks. The public’s cooperation was essential for minimizing hazards during these challenging conditions.
