US/Canada: Winter weather causes power outages, travel disruptions April 16 /update 2

Event

Winter Storm Xanto has brought freezing rain, snow, sleet, and high winds to the upper Midwestern US, Upstate New York, northern New England, Ontario, Québec, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island as of Monday, April 16, causing power outages and transportation disruptions on roads and at major regional airports. According to local sources, 390,000 people were affected by power outages in Detroit on April 14-15; as of Monday evening (local time), 165,000 people remain without power. In addition, at least 1000 flights were delayed or canceled in the abovementioned regions on Monday; lingering disruptions are expected to persist through Tuesday, April 17 due to the rescheduling of flights and further wintry weather.

As of Monday evening, winter storm advisories remain in effect across parts of Michigan, Wisconsin, and Maine. Snowfall warnings are in effect in parts of Ontario, Québec, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. A flood advisory is also in effect in Maine and eastern New Hampshire. Further wintry weather is forecast for the abovementioned areas on Tuesday, April 17, and further power outages and transportation disruptions are possible in affected areas.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm travel reservations, allow additional time for travel, and remain vigilant when driving in icy conditions. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.