Despite a mostly mild and calm fall season so far, winter is just around the corner, and there’s sure signs of the season emerging. That will be the case across parts of Atlantic Canada this weekend, as a strengthening system threatens heavy rain, gusty winds, and some wintry weather in parts of Newfoundland.
Special weather statements have been issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), warning of the potential for “significant snowfall” over northeastern and eastern sections of the island.
DON’T MISS: Snowy surprises can blanket Canada during a typical November
Despite some uncertainty with exact snowfall locations and amounts, be sure to stay up-to-date on all of the warnings in your area, as conditions can change quickly when significant storms hit. For some, this will be the first real taste of wintry weather of the season, so drivers will need to adapt as things deteriorate on the roads.
A system moving from Hudson’s Bay will enter Atlantic Canada and strengthen for the start of the weekend. It will pull in cold northerly air, allowing for temperatures to sit at, or below, the freezing mark by early Saturday morning.
As temperatures drop, the snowfall associated with the system will be highly track dependent, which has some uncertainty at this time. The snow potential will require a more southerly storm track, keeping Newfoundland on the cold side of the storm.
Snowfall rates could become quite heavy through Saturday afternoon, however, likely impacting travel as conditions deteriorate.
Currently, there are two scenarios for where the heaviest snow falls. The first is between Gander and Clarenville, impacting Highway 1, or between St. Alban’s and Clarenville. This will be something we continue to monitor, so be sure to check back for forecast updates.
Winds will also pick up later on Saturday, with gusts between 60-90 km/h expected. The combination of strong winds and snow could impact visibility in blowing snow.
Some areas may be dealing with dangerous whiteout conditions if the heaviest snow pans out.
SEE ALSO: Fall warmth continues for Canada in November, but will it last?
Rain will be the favoured precipitation type across the Avalon Peninsula, though with heavy amounts forecast into Saturday, making for a mostly gloomy and wet day.
In all, between 30-50+ mm could fall before conditions gradually improve through the day on Sunday.
Milder temperatures are forecast next week, but becoming more unsettled later in the week through mid-month.
Be sure to check back for the latest weather updates across Atlantic Canada