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A rapidly-intensifying storm is expected to impact the eastern half of Canada between December 24 and 26 -- causing potential disruptions to holiday travel. Here's how you can prepare.

Christmas storm: What you need to know


Cheryl Santa Maria
Digital Reporter

Thursday, December 18, 2014, 8:33 AM -

A rapidly-intensifying storm is expected to impact the eastern half of Canada between December 24 and 26 -- causing potential disruptions to holiday travel. 


RELATED: Learn more about the Christmas Eve storm


Potential impact

  • Road travel: This storm will likely bring strong winds to affected areas, creating the potential for reduced visibility and blowing snow. Should this occur, try to avoid unnecessary travel and keep your car equipped with a first aid kit, bottled water, a blanket and road salts. You may also want to top up on washer fluid. Lake effect snow could result in periods of near-zero visibility.
  • Air travel: When an intense snow storm hit the Buffalo area in November, more than 60 flights were cancelled. This coming storm brings the potential for additional cancellations. Flights coming in and out of Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada could experience delays or cancellations due to the weather. If you plan on travelling during the holiday season, check the status of your flight prior to heading to the airport.
  • Power outages: Strong wind can tear down tree branches, resulting in widespread power outages. Big storms can cause widespread power outages that can last for hours -- or, in the event of last year's Christmas ice storm -- days. Make sure your phone is charged ahead of time and you have extra chargers. Battery-operated chargers are handy to have in the event of a power outage.  You'll also want to make sure you're stocked up on blankets, sleeping bags, and have access to an alternate heat sources -- like a fire place. DO NOT use gas-powered generators or BBQs to warm your home. Last winter, two people died in Ontario from carbon monoxide poisoning when they used a gas-powered generator to warm-up following a blackout from the 2013 North American ice storm.
  • Damage: Property damage is common during a big storm, but there are ways you can limit the risk. Bring loose outdoor furniture inside and take a quick survey of your home for things that can come loose. If you're able to do so, park your car in a garage to avoid a potential run-in with swirling debris.

Who’s at risk

While some uncertainty remains as to what this storm (or set of storms) will look like, some models predict potentially dangerous weather in Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada.



 WATCH BELOW: Find out how airports prepare for the winter weather 


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