Blizzard conditions continue for NFLD ahead of Nor'easter
theweathernetwork.com
Sunday, March 12, 2017, 8:37 AM - As a powerful low pressure system continues to push east of Labrador, winds will gradually ease for Newfoundland Sunday after record gusts battered the island, causing widespread damage. However, the reprieve will be short-lived for Atlantic Canada as forecasters are eyeing an intense Nor'easter that is set to impact the region next week.
While wind warnings have been dropped, blizzard warnings continue for areas along the west coast.
"Flurries and local snow squalls combined with strong southwesterly winds will create near zero visibilities in blowing snow today [Sunday]," says Environment Canada in a blizzard warning for Corner Brook. "The conditions will improve late in the day as the winds shift to northwesterly and begin to ease."
Western Newfoundland could see an additional 5 cm of snow, with winds gusting up to 90 km/h.
QUICK FACTS:
- System lasting through Sunday morning in some areas
- Blizzard warnings in effect along the west coast, additional 5 cm expected with wind gusts up to 90 km/h
- St. John's International Airport experienced strongest winds in 40 years Saturday. Gust of 157 km/h recorded
- Special weather statement in effect for all three Maritime provinces ahead of nor'easter Tuesday
"Travel is expected to be extremely hazardous due to reduced visibility," adds the weather agency. "Road closures are possible."
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The Next One
While this system passes, all eyes are on the next one, with a special weather statement already in effect for all three Maritime provinces.
"An intense low pressure system will track towards the Maritimes on Tuesday," says Environment Canada in a weather advisory for New Brunswick. "Snow, blowing snow and high winds are expected to begin late Tuesday over New Brunswick and persist into Wednesday. Snow could possibly change over to rain on Wednesday for southernmost sections of the province."
While it is too early to pinpoint exact snowfall accumulations, most areas will likely pick up 15+ cm.
The snow will eventually creep into southwestern Newfoundland Tuesday night, becoming more widespread Wednesday morning. Parts of the island are expected to see some mixing with this system, with a transition to rain for southern portions Wednesday afternoon.
Check back for updates as we continue to monitor the forecast.
