20 Feb 2023 | 09:33 AM UTC
Canada: Adverse winter weather forecast to persist over Newfoundland Island through at least Feb. 21
Adverse winter weather forecast across Newfoundland Island, Canada through at least Feb. 21. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather is forecast across Newfoundland Island through at least Feb. 21. Heavy snow may be accompanied by strong winds and result in reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Freezing rain may cause roads to become icy and slippery. Hazardous driving conditions are likely.
As of early Feb. 20, Environment Canada has issued the following warnings:
Red snowfall warnings: inland areas of the Labrador Straits. 7-12 cm (3-5 inches) of snow is likely, with up to 20 cm (8 inches) or more inland and over higher terrain. Hazardous travel conditions are likely in the inland portions of the Trans-Labrador Highway between Red Bay and Lodge Bay.
Red rainfall and strong wind warnings: most of the rest of Newfoundland; up to 4.5 cm (2 inches) of rainfall is likely.
Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.
Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area. Lesser snowfall totals are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with snow. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will probably lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.
The inclement weather will likely cause widespread ground and air transport disruptions across the affected area. Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also probable on secondary and rural roads in the affected provinces as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall. The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region. Heavy wet snow and strong winds could bring down power lines and trees with foliage.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. If routing shipments by truck through the affected area, plan accordingly for delivery delays. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
