Canada: Severe weather forecast across southeastern regions through at least Nov. 24

Severe weather is forecast across parts of southeastern Canada through at least Nov. 24. A low-pressure area is forecast to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds across parts of Atlantic Canada over the coming days, with storm surge and rough seas possible in coastal areas and snowfall possible in some areas. Strong winds are also forecast in Quebec City and surrounding areas of Quebec Nov. 22. Winds gusting up to around 120 kph (75 mph) are possible in parts of the affected area and rainfall totals of 5-7 cm (2-2.8 inches) with isolated higher totals are forecast across parts of eastern Nova Scotia. Flooding is possible in areas where sustained heavy rainfall occurs. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of early Nov. 22, Environment Canada has issued red rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) for Cape Breton, Guysborough, southern Inverness, and Richmond counties and Sydney Metro in western Nova Scotia. Red strong wind warnings are in place for parts of southwestern Newfoundland, western Nova Scotia, and Iles-de-la-Madeleine and the Quebec City area in Quebec. A grey special weather statement for heavy rainfall, snowfall in elevated areas, strong winds, and possible storm surge is in place across parts of the Gaspe Peninsula in Quebec. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and days.

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 downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Floodwaters may render some bridges 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.

Localized business disruptions could occur in flood-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites. Strong winds could also cause power outages.