An April snowfall is on the way for winter-weary Atlantic Canada
Snow isn’t uncommon across the Atlantic provinces in April, but the threat for a quick-hitting snowfall is unwelcome news as we dive deeper into spring.
Atlantic Canada is on track to start April on a familiar note as a wintry springtime storm takes aim at eastern parts of the region. A stout system will bring accumulating snow to parts of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland to start the new workweek. The messy weather could affect the Monday morning commute in Nova Scotia. More on the timing and impacts of this April snowfall, below.
MONDAY/TUESDAY: MESSY STORM TAKES AIM AT NOVA SCOTIA AND NEWFOUNDLAND
While the opportunities for snow begin to dwindle in April, the Maritimes are still prone to some parting wintry weather as we forge ahead through early spring.
A centre of low pressure will move south of Nova Scotia to begin the week. The track of the storm and extent of cold air will allow precipitation to primarily fall as wet snow across the province.
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Some of this wet snow might struggle to accumulate due to the marginal temperatures and April sun angle. Areas near the water are likely to see snow melt on contact and not pose much of a hazard.
Persistent snow rates can win out in the end, though, and areas that see sustained snowfall could see storm totals of 10-15 cm before the system pulls away from the area.
Unfortunately, the heaviest snow could coincide with the Monday morning commute in Halifax, making for tough travel as folks head to work and school.
Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a special weather statement for almost all of Nova Scotia ahead of the snowfall potential. A snowfall warning is in effect for a small part of Cape Breton; it’s likely that additional warnings will be issued as the event draws closer.
By Monday evening, most of the snow will have tapered off in the Maritimes, although snow showers continue across eastern sections, including Cape Breton. The system will produce a messy mix across Newfoundland, including hefty snowfall for western areas, lingering through much of Tuesday.
Across western Newfoundland, 10-20 cm of snow is possible, while precipitation manifests as rain for southern sections. Strong winds are also expected for southern Newfoundland, especially across the Avalon Peninsula, with gusts of 70-100 km/h.
Beyond the system, temperatures will be quite chilly, but then will trend milder and unsettled once more late week and next weekend.
Check back as we continue to monitor the Atlantic Canada forecast.