Caution Urged as Stormy Weather Returns
The Emergency Management Office is advising people to be cautious for the next few days as a variety of stormy weather is expected to hit the province.
According to Environment Canada a mix of snow, possible freezing rain and heavy rainfall will affect much of Nova Scotia tonight, Dec. 26, and on Monday, Dec. 27 and Tuesday, Dec. 28.
"This could be our first real taste of winter this year," said Ramona Jennex, Minister for the Emergency Management Office.
"We've had plenty of rough weather this fall. But winter is different and brings its own challenges. The smart thing to do get ready. Follow all of the practical safety tips from EMO and Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, so you can enjoy winter rather than fear it."
The weather forecast tonight and into Monday includes snowfall, rainfall and freezing drizzle warnings for much of Nova Scotia with rainfall up to 40 millimetres and snow up to 20 centimetres.
Heavy wind will be a threat everywhere, with gusts to 70 and 80 kilometres an hour from northeast to northwest depending on time and location. There also could be higher than normal coastal waters and pounding surf.
People are advised to monitor local weather forecasts for road conditions and make sure they have emergency supplies in their vehicles. Drivers are also reminded to exercise caution, particularly if they have not yet installed snow tires.
The Emergency Management Office recommends a home emergency kit prepared for all seasons so that families can be self-sufficient for up to 72-hours after a storm. Emergency kits should include: a battery-operated or crank radio; flashlight; spare batteries; non-perishable food; manual can-opener; drinking water; adequate supply of medication; first-aid kit; blankets or sleeping bags; and extra clothing and footwear. Similar items are recommended for vehicle kits, along with jumper cables, warning flares, shovel, traction sand or road salt and tow rope.
It is always a good idea to have a flashlight, lantern or safety light sticks, and a crank or battery-powered radio and spare batteries on hand during storms.
More information on preparing an emergency kit for your home or vehicle is available on the Emergency Management Office website at www.gov.ns.ca/emo .
Information on road conditions is available by dialing 511 for provincial highway conditions, or 1-888-432-3233 for local road information.
EMO is continuing to work with Environment Canada to closely monitor the storm. Emergency management officials at the provincial and municipal levels have been alerted and are prepared to issue additional warnings or act as needed.