The Provincial Government is monitoring forecast information on a weather system that is anticipated to affect many areas of the province. Heavy snowfall and high winds are forecast to begin late tomorrow night and may continue into Saturday (January 18). Poor to near zero visibilities in heavy snow and blowing snow can be expected for the eastern half of the island in particular. Elevated water levels and coastal flooding are also likely and the system may cause significant storm surge.

Municipalities and local service districts should ensure infrastructure such as roads, ditches and drains are clear of debris and appropriate provisions are made for the delivery of services during anticipated weather events.

Residents and communities are asked to use caution and to take measures to ensure personal safety, and if possible, clear fire hydrants of snow in case of emergency. Information regarding general emergency preparedness is available at www.getprepared.gc.ca .

Snow plows and ice control crews will be active during the weather event. However, the heavy snowfall and strong winds are expected to lead to poor visibility and potentially unsafe driving conditions. Motorists are reminded to check NL 511 via the mobile app, by visiting www.nl511.ca  or by calling 511 to check driving condition reports. The app and website will also have updates on the provincial plow tracker.

Please follow the latest weather forecast warnings for your region of the province at: www.weather.gc.ca/warnings/index_e.html?prov=nl .

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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