Nova Scotia braces for significant snowfall, high winds as nor’easter approaches
With pre-Christmas travel plans set to be impacted this weekend, a nor’easter is expected to bring significant snowfall to much of the Maritimes. The storm is set to develop along the Eastern Seaboard before moving south of Nova Scotia on Saturday, with snow expected along its northern edge.
The heaviest snowfall is predicted for Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and southeastern New Brunswick, with snowfall amounts ranging from 15 to 30 centimeters. Some areas, particularly in the Annapolis Valley and Cumberland County regions, could see accumulations exceeding 30 centimeters.
Cape Breton and eastern areas of mainland Nova Scotia are likely to experience a mix of snow, ice pellets, freezing rain, and rain. Winter storm watches, warnings, snowfall warnings, and special weather statements are in effect for Nova Scotia.
The snow is expected to begin falling on Friday evening, with the heaviest snowfall occurring Friday night and Saturday morning. Southern areas of Nova Scotia can expect the snow to taper to flurries late morning and early afternoon, while northern areas will see steady snow lingering into the evening.
Widespread wind gusts from the northeast and then northwest, ranging from 40 to 60 km/h, are anticipated, leading to blowing and drifting snow on Saturday, especially in open and exposed areas. Stronger wind gusts in the 60-to-80 km/h range are possible along the Atlantic coastline on Friday night and the Northumberland Strait on Saturday afternoon and evening.
Despite the storm’s impact on travel plans, the weather is expected to clear up by Sunday, with onshore flurries lingering into Monday for the Northumberland Shore, Cape Breton, and PEI.
In terms of a white Christmas, the Maritimes are likely to see one this year as the snow from the weekend storm is expected to stick around due to cold temperatures settling in after the storm passes. This winter wonderland will bring a festive touch to the region as Christmas approaches.
