Another winter storm is approaching the Maritimes early this week. The incoming nor’easter is expected to bring heavy snowfall and strong winds, likely causing travel disruptions, cancellations, and the possibility of power outages.
Snowfall totals are forecasted to range from 15 to 25 centimeters across the region, with the highest amounts anticipated in Nova Scotia, southeastern New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. Some areas, particularly along Nova Scotia’s South Shore, may see snow accumulation exceeding 25 centimeters, with rates reaching 25 to 40 centimeters due to heavy snowfall expected on Monday afternoon.
The snow is expected to be dense and wet, especially along the Atlantic coast and eastern parts of Nova Scotia, where a mix with rain and drizzle is probable. Strong winds, with gusts between 60 and 80 km/h across the area and up to 90 km/h in exposed locations, will result in blowing snow, drifting snow, and reduced visibility.
Elevated water levels along the Atlantic coastline are also anticipated on Monday night and in the Northumberland Strait region on Tuesday.
The storm’s timeline includes light snow in southwest Nova Scotia in the morning, followed by heavier snow bands moving across mainland Nova Scotia and southern New Brunswick during Monday afternoon. Cape Breton, northern New Brunswick, and P.E.I. will experience light snow transitioning to heavier snowfall later in the day.
As the storm progresses, winds will intensify quickly, leading to blowing and drifting snow, especially during the afternoon and evening commute. The heaviest snowfall rates of two to four centimeters per hour are expected in the afternoon and evening, with wind gusts likely causing significant drifts.
Snowfall will diminish to flurries overnight and into Tuesday morning for most areas. However, coastal regions and the eastern half of Nova Scotia, including Cape Breton, as well as eastern P.E.I., may see a mix of snow turning to rain and drizzle.
Flurries and light snow are anticipated to persist through Tuesday morning, with some eastern areas reverting to flurries later on. Northerly winds wrapping around the system will continue gusting near 50-60 km/h, resulting in blowing and drifting snow in exposed areas throughout Tuesday. By Tuesday afternoon, most areas will see the snowfall taper off, except for northeastern Nova Scotia and northern Cape Breton, where onshore flurries are expected.
In Inverness County, Nova Scotia, onshore flurries will bring accumulating snowfall and blowing snow into Tuesday evening.