A new storm is approaching the Maritimes early this week, bringing heavy snowfall and strong winds. This nor’easter is expected to cause travel disruptions, flight cancellations, and potential power outages. Snowfall amounts are predicted to range from 15 to 25 centimeters across the region, with higher accumulations likely in Nova Scotia, southeastern New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. Some areas, particularly along the South Shore of Nova Scotia, could see snow totals reaching 25 to 40 centimeters due to heavy snowfall rates.
The snow will be wet and heavy, especially along the Atlantic coast and in eastern Nova Scotia, where a mix with rain and drizzle is anticipated. Wind gusts are forecasted to range from 60 to 80 km/h, with exposed locations experiencing gusts up to 90 km/h, leading to blowing snow and reduced visibility. Elevated water levels are also expected along the Atlantic coast on Monday night and the Northumberland Strait region on Tuesday.
The storm timeline indicates that snow will begin in southwest Nova Scotia in the morning, with heavier bands moving across mainland Nova Scotia and southern New Brunswick in the afternoon. Cape Breton, northern New Brunswick, and P.E.I. will experience light snow transitioning to steadier snowfall later in the day. Strong winds accompanying the snowfall may cause blowing and drifting snow, especially in exposed areas, impacting the afternoon and evening commute.
The heaviest snowfall rates are expected in the afternoon and evening, with rates of two to four centimeters per hour possible. Wind gusts of 60-90 km/h may result in significant drifting of snow, creating varying accumulation levels in different areas. Snowfall will diminish to flurries overnight and into Tuesday morning for most regions, except for the Atlantic coast, eastern Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, and eastern P.E.I., where snow may mix with rain and drizzle.
Throughout Tuesday morning, flurries and light snow will persist in most areas, with some eastern regions seeing a return to flurries later in the day. Northerly winds wrapping around the storm will continue to bring blowing and drifting snow, particularly in exposed areas. Precipitation is expected to gradually taper off by Tuesday afternoon, except for northeastern Nova Scotia and northern Cape Breton, where onshore flurries may linger into the evening.
In Inverness County, Nova Scotia, onshore flurries could lead to accumulating snow and blowing snow through Tuesday evening.