Atlantic Canada is grappling with the relentless grip of winter after a powerful winter storm brought heavy snowfall and dangerously low temperatures sweeping across the region this week. The storm, which spanned several provinces including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, has severely disrupted travel and daily routines, causing widespread flight cancellations, school closures, and warnings from weather and emergency officials.
In many cities, snow accumulations of up to 40 centimeters have blanketed streets, making driving treacherous and public transit unreliable. Road maintenance crews are working around the clock, but persistent snowfall combined with blasting winds—some gusting over 70 km/h—have made cleanup efforts painfully slow. The bone-chilling cold has also introduced further complications, with wind chill values plummeting to below -30°C in some inland areas, intensifying health risks like frostbite and hypothermia. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors whenever possible and to limit non-essential travel.
Storm impact at a glance
| Region | Snowfall | Temperature Range | Main Disruption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nova Scotia | 25–30 cm | -18°C to -25°C (feels like -35°C) | Flight cancellations, ferry disruptions |
| New Brunswick | 30–40 cm | -20°C to -28°C | Road closures, power outages |
| Prince Edward Island | 22–29 cm | -15°C to -22°C | Public transit affected |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | 15–25 cm | -10°C to -18°C | School shutdowns, ferry service halted |
Unpredictable travel conditions across provinces
One of the most immediate and visible impacts of this intense winter storm has been the disruption of regional and interprovincial travel. Numerous flights departing from Halifax Stanfield International Airport and St. John’s International Airport have been cancelled or delayed due to poor visibility and runway conditions. Maritime ferry operations have also faced significant disruption, with crossings between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland suspended for safety.
Highway travel remains equally unpredictable, with slick roads, blowing snow, and limited visibility triggering multiple accidents, rollovers, and detours. In New Brunswick, portions of the Trans-Canada Highway were temporarily shut down due to whiteout conditions. Transportation authorities throughout Atlantic Canada have advised against non-essential driving while salting and plowing operations continue in full force.
Drivers are reminded to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. The combination of icy surfaces and high winds makes for very dangerous driving conditions.
— Sgt. Lisa Tremblay, RCMP Traffic Services
Daily life takes a hit from severe weather
The effects of the storm go beyond transportation. Across the region, schools were closed or transitioned to online classes to keep students safe. Many businesses delayed their opening hours, and government offices operated on modified schedules. Snow day plans extended to hospitals and medical centers as well, with some elective procedures postponed and telehealth services ramped up to reduce unnecessary foot traffic.
Grocery stores and fuel stations saw a spike in foot traffic ahead of the storm, as residents stocked up in anticipation of possible power outages. Shelters and warming centers expanded their hours and services, especially for the vulnerable and unhoused populations, whose health is at greatest risk in these extremes.
Health warnings amid extreme cold
With wind chill values dipping well below critical thresholds, public health officials have issued multiple advisories urging residents to take precautions.
Even a few minutes of exposure can lead to frostbite in these conditions. It’s vital to wear proper layers and cover all exposed skin.
— Dr. Marianne Foley, Public Health Physician
Hospitals have seen an uptick in emergency visits tied to frostbite and falls on icy sidewalks. Seniors and children are particularly at risk. Animal advocates have additionally reminded pet owners about bringing animals inside or ensuring they are properly sheltered with access to unfrozen water.
Emergency response and road clearance efforts
Municipal and provincial emergency teams have activated full-scale response protocols to keep infrastructure functional and residents safe. Snow plows, de-icing trucks, and road salting units have been mobilized in record numbers. Despite their best efforts, accumulation has outpaced removal in many areas, especially overnight.
Crews are working in rotating shifts 24/7, but it’s a challenge to keep up with such a sustained storm event.
— Mark Ellis, Director of Municipal Works, Moncton
As the cleanup process continues, road maintenance teams have reiterated the importance of giving plow trucks space and obeying winter parking bans to ensure efficient snow removal.
Winners and losers from the storm
| Winners | Why |
|---|---|
| Remote workers | Less impacted by transportation disruptions |
| Utility companies | Preparation helped maintain service during outage threats |
| Losers | Why |
| Daily commuters | Stuck in traffic jams or forced to stay home |
| Small retail businesses | Loss of revenue due to weather-driven closures |
Communities pull together in face of hardship
Despite the challenges, Atlantic Canadians have shown remarkable resilience and community spirit. Neighbours have helped shovel each other’s driveways, while local groups organized rides for healthcare workers and food drop-offs for elderly residents. Social media became a helpful hub of neighborhood communication—sharing updates on snowplow routes, service closures, and safety tips.
We’ve been in this kind of weather before, and we’ll get through it again. It’s about helping each other and staying patient.
— Rachel Larkin, Resident of Charlottetown
Local radio stations and emergency alerts have played a vital role in keeping citizens informed and safe, broadcasting updates on weather conditions, school closures, and power restoration efforts.
What’s ahead for the rest of the week
Forecasts suggest that the bulk of the storm activity will taper off within a day, but cold temperatures and flurries will persist for several more days. Meteorologists caution that freezing rain or mixed precipitation may follow, further complicating cleanup operations and adding weight to already burdened rooftops and trees. Black ice will also become a major issue, especially during morning and evening commutes.
Cold air will linger even after the core of the storm passes. Continued caution is advised for the rest of the week.
— Jeff Stanton, Senior Meteorologist
Weather advisories remain in effect, and regional emergency coordination centers are on standby in the event additional help is needed or new storm systems arise.
Short FAQs on Atlantic Canada’s winter storm
How much snow has fallen in total?
Some regions have recorded up to 40 centimeters of snow with more expected in the following days due to lake-effect bands and flurries.
Are schools still closed?
Most schools are closed or have shifted to remote learning formats. Check with your local school board for daily updates.
Can I drive during the weather warnings?
Authorities have strongly advised avoiding all non-essential travel as roads remain slippery and visibility is poor. Many highways have restrictions in place.
Will flights resume soon?
Flight operations are slowly beginning to resume but remain subject to sudden weather changes. Check with your airline before heading to the airport.
What should I do about power outages?
If you experience a power outage, report it immediately and avoid using unsafe heat sources indoors. Use flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risk.
How can I safely go outside in these temperatures?
Minimize skin exposure, dress in layers, and limit time outdoors. Stay informed via local alerts and don’t leave pets outside unattended.
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