Blizzard warning issued for southern N.B., up to 55 cm of snow possible

A blizzard warning has been issued for much of southern New Brunswick including Moncton, Fredericton, and Saint John withas much as 55 centimetres of snow expected in some areas.

Environment Canada said a low pressure system is expected to develop south of Cape Cod this evening and intensify as it moves towardNova Scotia tonight.

"Snow will begin over southwestern New Brunswick this evening and spread eastward throughout the night," thenational weather service said in a statement.

The storm will intensify Monday and will bringheavy snow, very strong northeasterly winds, and blowing snow resulting in blizzard conditions with near zero visibility to much of the southern half of the province.

The areas under blizzard warnings are expected to see snowfall amounts between 25 and 55 centimetres and winds gusting up to 100 km/h.

The highest snowfall amounts and strongest winds are forecast to be along the Fundy coast in St. Stephen and Grand Manan.

Blizzard warnings are issued when widespread reducedvisibilitiesof 400 metres or less are expected for at least four hours.

"Travel is expected to be extremely hazardous due to widespread poor visibility. "Road closures are likely. Travel is not recommended," said Environment Canada in its warning.

Facebook update

CBC meteorologistKalinMitchell will be doing aFacebookLiveupdate on the storm at5:30 p.m.

He said snowfall amounts are only one issue with this storm.

"Another will be the winds. East and Northeast gusts of 70-100 km/h (highest gusts on the coast) are projected to accompany the snow creating extensive blowing snow and drifts. Anticipate prolonged periods of very poor visibility on Monday. The strong winds will drive a rough and pounding surf. Be especially cautious during high tides on Monday."

Mitchell added this is a rapidly developing weather scenario and the forecast should be monitored frequently in the event of change.

More warnings

Winter storm warnings have been issued for central N.B. withsnowfall amounts between 15 and 25 centimetres and winds gusting up to 80 km/h.

Special weather statements have been issued for parts of northeasternN.B. including Miramichi and the Acadian Peninsula.

Environment Canada said there is still someuncertainty of the amount of snow accumulation over those regions.

"Gusty northeast winds will also give reduced visibilities in blowing snow over exposed area," the national weather service advised in its statement.

The snow will taper to flurries Monday evening and the winds will gradually diminish Monday night as the low continues to move east.

Additional crews

NB Power is taking steps to prepare for the storm.In a news release, it said it lined up additional power restoration crews to respond to issues. They're being moved into place ahead of the storm with damage assessment teams and logistical staff so they will be ready to respond as soon as it is safe to do so.

"Given the amount of snow predicted, travel may be difficult, which could complicate early response efforts," the utility said in a statement.

NB Power reminds customers to be prepared in the event of an outage. That includes having an emergency kit that includes flashlights, a battery-powered radio and fresh water. People should also charge their mobile devices in advanceand if they have abackup generator, they should ensure it'sinstalled properly outdoors.