Nova Scotia's Atlantic coast under rainfall warnings

With heavy rainfall on the way, much of Nova Scotia's Atlantic coast is under weather warnings.

After freezing temperatures andmore than a metre of snow fell over the past week and a half, the risk of flooding especially in low-lying areas hasincreased.

• Nova Scotia Storm Centre
• How to prevent flood damage to your home

"A trough of low pressure will bring rain at times heavy to the area beginning this evening. While the heaviest rain is expected tonight, rain will continue on Friday before northerly winds and falling temperatures will cause the rain to change to snow Friday evening," reads a statement on Environment Canada's website.

"Rainfall amounts of 20 to 40 millimetres are expected with higher amounts possible along the coast. In addition to the rainfall, a significant amount of snowmelt is likely to contribute to local flooding."

Environment Canada has place the following areas of Nova Scotia under a rainfall warning.

• Digby County
• GuysboroughCounty
• Halifax County, east of Porters Lake
• Halifax Metro and HalifaxCounty West
• LunenburgCounty
• QueensCounty
• ShelburneCounty
• YarmouthCounty

The national weather service warns that low-lying areas are the most vulnerable.

"Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Avoid driving through water on roads. Even shallow fast moving water across a road can sweep a vehicle or a person away," said Environment Canada.