Canada: Adverse weather forecast across eastern regions through at least Jan. 19

Heavy rainfall, heavy snowfall, and strong winds are forecast across parts of eastern Canada through at least Jan. 19. As of late Jan. 15, Environment Canada has issued the following warnings:

• Red rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): south shore of Nova Scotia from Lunenburg County to Shelburne; 2.5-3 cm (1-1.2 inches) of rainfall is forecast. A brief period of snow around noon Jan. 16 is forecast before the heavy rainfall.

• Red snowfall warnings: central and northern New Brunswick. Snowfall of 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) is forecast. An extended period of freezing rain is possible in central New Brunswick.

• Red winter storm warnings: far southeastern Quebec. Snowfall of 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) is forecast.

• Red wind warnings: Margaree Harbour to Bay St. Lawrence in Nova Scotia and far southern Newfoundland Island.

• Grey special weather statements for snowfall and strong winds: most of the rest of Newfoundland and Labrador and far eastern Quebec.

• Grey special weather statements for freezing rain: central and southern New Brunswick.

Officials may update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours.

The storm system could produce rounds of heavy precipitation (including rain and snow) and strong winds across the affected area. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Precipitation could fall as snow in northern parts of the affected area over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in these areas.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations.

The disruptive weather could cause delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations in coastal areas if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages. The severe weather could cause power outages in parts of the affected regions.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or strong winds, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.