Winter storm to pummel N.S. Friday night, with snow, ice, and strong winds

A winter storm is expected to move into Nova Scotia late Friday night, bringing heavy snow, ice pellets, and gusty winds in some areas. Environment Canada meteorologist Jim Prime explains the storm’s timing and impact.

“The storm will begin around midnight,” said Prime. “Most of the snow will fall quickly once it begins. It’ll be pretty intense, especially in the beginning, but will taper off by Saturday morning.”

Prime emphasized that areas like the South Shore, Halifax, and Truro could see between 15 to 25 centimetres of snow, with some spots possibly receiving higher amounts. “There is a possibility of locally higher totals, especially in areas with onshore flow,” Prime explained. “That moisture from the ocean can add extra snowfall.”

Cape Breton is likely to see ice pellets mixed with snow, and temperatures could rise enough for the storm to switch to rain. “For Cape Breton, there’s a chance of ice pellets, and then it could switch over to rain,” Prime said.

The storm will also bring strong winds, which could lead to blowing snow and hazardous driving conditions. “Wind gusts of 50 to 60 kilometers per hour will reduce visibility, especially when fresh snow is blowing around,” said Prime. “It could make roads slippery and make driving dangerous, so I’d recommend changing travel plans if possible.”

By Saturday evening, the storm is expected to taper off, but northern parts of the province may see additional snow squalls on Sunday and Monday. Prime added, “There may be additional accumulations for the northern part of the province, especially as the low moves out and northwesterly winds bring in more snow.”

Residents are urged to be cautious as reduced visibility and slick roads are likely to create hazardous driving conditions throughout the storm.

Heading to the airport?

December is one of the busiest travel months.

This weekend alone, tens of thousands of passengers are expected at Halifax Stanfield.

Jessica Pettigrew from the Airport Authority tells our newsroom there are typically between 10,000 and 12,000 people every day, Friday through Sunday.

With the storm coming, she says, they are getting prepared.

“Our winter operations team, they are ready to go…should they need to clear runways, to ensure safe landings…as well as the airlines. To do whatever we can to make sure that we help get people to where they need to go with safety being the priority.”

She adds, there will be airport staff on site and their volunteer team scattered throughout the terminal.

Leave extra time

When there is bad weather, Pettigrew says they recommend checking your flight status before leaving your house and to make sure to give yourself extra time.

In addition to that, she says there are other ways to feel extra prepared for travelling.

“Checking in online early [and] booking your spot in security before you even arrive at the airport.”

Whether or not your holiday flight will be delayed or cancelled, Pettigrew says that is up to the airline, but of course, safety is a top priority.