Public Advisory: Adverse Weather Conditions Anticipated

  • Municipal Affairs and Environment
  • Transportation and Works

February 6, 2020

The Provincial Government is monitoring forecast information on the approaching weather system that is anticipated to affect areas of the province beginning overnight tonight and continuing into Saturday morning.

Heavy snowfall is forecasted to begin tonight and continue into Friday. Snow is expected to transition to ice pellets through to freezing rain for parts of the island for an extended period on Friday. Higher than normal water levels due to a combination of storm surge, high waves, and pounding surf are expected along the south coast during high tide Saturday morning.

Please follow the latest weather forecast warnings for your region of the province.

The Department of Municipal Affairs and Environment Emergency Services Division held a call with emergency partners and towns today to discuss the weather forecast and potential impacts. Staff are monitoring the forecast and are ready to open the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre should it be deemed necessary.

As well, the Department of Transportation and Works is closely monitoring forecasts. The department is anticipating icy driving conditions beginning Friday. While snow and ice control equipment will be out on provincial highways, the department is recommending motorists check www.nl511.ca  or the NL 511 smartphone app for highway driving condition information and to check the Provincial Plow Tracker before travelling.

Municipalities and local service districts have been asked to review their emergency management plans; ensure infrastructure such as roads, ditches and drains are clear of debris; and ensure that appropriate provisions are made for the delivery of services during anticipated weather events.

Residents are advised to be prepared for at least 72 hours with a basic emergency kit with food, water, batteries, a portable radio, and prescription medications. Residents and communities are asked to use caution and to take measures to ensure personal safety. Information regarding emergency preparedness is available at www.getprepared.gc.ca.

Residents are also encouraged to prepare for the possibility of power outages. Information on power outage safety and preparedness can be found here.

If power outages occur, customers can get information and updates on power restoration directly from their distribution utility:

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Media contacts
Lynn Robinson
Municipal Affairs and Environment
709-729-5449, 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca

Brian Scott
Transportation and Works
709-729-3015, 725-9201
brianscott@gov.nl.ca

2020 02 06 3:05 pm