Municipal Affairs and Environment
April 07, 2017

Public Advisory: Adverse Weather Conditions Anticipated

The Department of Municipal Affairs and Environment, Fire and Emergency Services (FES) is monitoring Environment and Climate Change Canada forecast information on an approaching, complex weather system. The system is forecast to bring rain, warmer temperatures and strong southeasterly winds for today and extend into Saturday for parts of the province.

Rain, at times heavy, will spread across the island and into parts of southern Labrador. Rainfall totals for the Port aux Basques area through to the Connaigre Peninsula are forecast to be in the 40 to 70 mm range with the potential for localized areas to receive up to 100 mm. The Burin Peninsula is forecast to receive 35 to 50 mm and 15 to 35 mm of rain for other areas. Rainfall amounts in parts of southern Labrador are forecast to be in the 15 to 25 mm range. There may be periods of freezing rain in some areas but the warming temperatures should help mitigate any significant impacts from the freezing rain.

The impacts of this weather system and the associated melting of snow have the potential to lead to overland flow of water, elevated water levels in water bodies, localized flooding and pooling of water in low lying areas. Strong southeasterly winds for the south west and west coasts gusting to 140 kilometres in the Wreckhouse area, will also accompany this system.

Municipalities should ensure infrastructure such as roads, ditches and drains are clear of debris and appropriate provisions are made for the delivery of services in the event the weather has a greater effect than anticipated. This includes ensuring fire hydrants are clear of excess snow and are accessible for firefighters.

Residents are reminded to follow the latest weather forecast for further alert bulletins and to take measures to ensure personal safety. More information regarding weather forecasts and warnings can be found at www.weather.gc.ca/warnings/index_e.html?prov=nl. Residents are encouraged to report adverse weather on Twitter using #nlwx.

Information regarding general emergency preparedness is available at www.getprepared.gc.ca/.

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Media contact:

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

2017 04 07                              3:05 p.m.