Canada: Adverse weather forecast across southeastern regions through at least early March 9

Severe weather is forecast across parts of southeastern Canada through at least early March 9. A storm system moving eastward across the affected area is initially expected to bring mainly rainfall across parts of southern New Brunswick and western and central Nova Scotia late March 6-early March 7. Precipitation is expected to transition to freezing rain and snowfall over eastern New Brunswick, western Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island March 7. Heavy snow and freezing rain are likely over parts of eastern and southern Newfoundland late March 7-early March 9. Flooding is possible in areas where heavy rainfall occurs and hazardous travel conditions are likely in areas where more wintry precipitation falls due to slippery roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages in parts of the affected area.

As of early March 6, Environment Canada has issued red rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across parts of southern Newfoundland and central and eastern Nova Scotia. Red snowfall warnings have been issued for parts of eastern New Brunswick and western Prince Edward Island. Grey special weather statements for mixed wintry precipitation are in place across the rest of the affected area. 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, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Precipitation could fall as snow in 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 will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

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. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.