Rain, wind and storm surge warnings now in effect (update)
Posted Dec 23, 2022 03:45:00 PM.
A storm surge warning has been added to the rainfall and wind warnings already in effect for the Halifax area as a powerful pre-Christmas storm arrives.
As of 11:30 a.m. Friday, the rain has already started to fall and the wind is picking up.
Gusts are expected to build throughout the day and are forecast to reach 90 km/h, which could blow away anything that hasn't been secured, including Christmas decorations.
“Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions due to high winds,” the wind warning said.
There's also the potential for downed tree branches and power outages.
Nova Scotia Power says it has crews ready to respond to “ensure the least amount of disruption to your holiday plans,” but the utility is asking people to prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, food and fresh water.
Rain is expected to be heavy at times at there's a risk of thundershowers Friday night. With the ground already saturated, the warning says localized flooding is a risk in some areas.
In total, we could see between 25 and 40 mm.
Expect large waves of 5 to 7 metres and storm surge along the coast, especially during high tide.
“These large waves can cause damage to coastal infrastructure, especially at locations that have been prone to impacts during similar events in the past,” Environment Canada said.
Halifax Stanfield International Airport says winter weather already affecting other parts of Canada and the U.S. could disrupt passengers.
As of Friday morning, there are already several delayed and cancelled flights. Halifax's airport authority recommends confirming your flight status with your airline before leaving for the airport.
On Christmas Day, the forecast is calling for a mix of sun and cloud with a 30 percent chance of flurries and a high of 0.
