Canada: Adverse winter weather conditions forecast over parts of eastern regions through Feb. 16

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across parts of eastern Canada through Feb. 16. As of late Feb. 12, Environment Canada has issued the following warnings:

• Red winter storm warnings: most of Nova Scotia. Near 15 cm (6 inches) of snow is forecast for counties in the Fundy region from Digby to Colchester and 20-25 cm (8-10) inches for counties along the Atlantic Coast from Yarmouth to Sydney as well as Pictou, Antigonish, and southern Inverness counties. Strong winds of 60-80 kph (37-50 mph) are likely. The winter storm conditions are forecast to persist across central and western Nova Scotia through late Feb. 13 and across eastern Nova Scotia including Cape Breton the evening of Feb. 13-early Feb. 14.

• Yellow winter storm watches: southeastern, eastern, and northeastern Newfoundland early Feb. 13-16 and Cumberland, Inverness, and Victoria counties in Nova Scotia through early Feb. 13.

Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours. Hazardous driving conditions are likely across the affected area due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

The inclement weather will likely cause widespread ground and air transport disruptions across the affected area. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities will likely close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. The disruptive weather will likely cause delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region due to ground stops and deicing operations. Heavy, wet snow and strong winds could bring down power lines and trees with foliage.