21 Mar 2022 | 04:11 AM UTC
Canada: Adverse winter weather forecast over southeastern regions through at least March 23
Winter storm to bring adverse weather across southeastern Canada through at least March 23. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
A winter storm will impact parts of far southeastern Canada through at least March 23. The storm will bring heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and strong winds across much of Newfoundland and Labrador and far eastern Quebec provinces.
As of late March 20, Environment Canada has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:
Red winter storm warnings: Cartwright to Black Tickle, Eagle River, Norman Bay to Lodge Bay, Red Bay to L'Anse-au-Clair, Rigolet and vicinity, and Upper Lake Melville in Newfoundland and Labrador as well as Chevery and Natashquan in Quebec.
Red snowfall warnings: Green Bay and White Bay in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Red wind warnings: Gros Morne, Hawke's Bay, and Parson's Pond in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Red freezing rain warnings: Bay of Exploits, Bonavista North, and Bonavista Peninsula in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Yellow winter storm warnings: Hopedale and vicinity, Nain and vicinity, Makkovik, and Postville in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Special weather statements: for blowing snow and freezing drizzle across the rest of the affected area.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as the winter storm transits the region over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area. Lesser snowfall totals are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with snow. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts are likely to lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport and Utilities
The inclement weather will likely cause widespread ground and air transport disruptions across the affected area. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Heavy wet snow and strong winds could bring down power lines and trees with foliage. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
