The St. John’s metro region is in the bullseye of the latest winter storm forecast to hit the island with up to 80 cm of snow expected by the time it clears out on the weekend.
Winter storm warnings are in effect for the Avalon, Connaigre, Burin and Bonavista peninsulas, including Clarenville and Terra Nova where between 30 and 45 cm are expected.
Snowfall warnings are also in effect for Port aux Basques to Ramea, and the Bay d’Espoir Highway with 15 to 30 cm in the forecast.
The snow is moving across the island today, expected to reach the Avalon Peninsula by late this afternoon.
Snow will change to ice pellets or freezing rain this evening over southern areas of the Burin and Avalon Peninsulas as well as the metro region, before changing back to snow on Friday, while an extended period of freezing rain is also likely.
Environment Canada meteorologist Savio Paul says the duration of the storm is what will contribute to the high snowfall amounts.
The storm will finally move off the Avalon by Saturday morning.
Deputy City Manager of Public Works with the city of St. John’s, Lynnann Winsor, says there are numerous things people can do to either help with snow removal, or to stay informed of what’s happening.
She says to avoid parking on the street if at possible, which will help with the efficiency of snow removal. As well, she suggests following along with the city’s social media and signing up for e-updates to stay informed. She also suggests downloading the CurbIt app for updates on garbage collection. She suspects it will be cancelled tomorrow, and it may be Sunday before crews can collect garbage.
