06 Oct 2022 | 03:01 PM UTC
Canada: Adverse weather forecast across parts of Nova Scotia Oct. 6
Heavy rainfall forecast across parts of Nova Scotia Oct. 6. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of Nova Scotia Oct. 6. Environment Canada has issued red rainfall warnings for southwestern and south-central parts of the province from Shelburne County to Halifax and a special weather statement warning of heavy rain has been issued for other central and eastern parts of Nova Scotia. Rainfall totals of 4-8 cm (1.6-3.1 inches) are forecast across the affected areas Oct. 6, with localized accumulations of up to 10 cm (3.9 inches). Heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas, as well as flash floods and ponding on road surfaces. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Much of Nova Scotia is still recovering from the impacts of post-tropical storm Fiona, which struck the region early Sept. 24. Around 7,000 customers across the province are still without power following the storm, with most outages reported in the Truro, Pictou County, and Cape Breton areas. Provincial authorities declared a state of emergency Oct. 5 for areas most affected by the storm as recovery efforts continue. Further heavy downpours could trigger additional flooding over areas where the ground is already saturated and hamper recovery operations.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
