Hurricane Fiona has the potential to be a severe storm for parts of Atlantic Canada this weekend.
The hurricane will move north and into the Maritimes Friday and Saturday afternoon as it transitions to a post-tropical storm.
This post-tropical transition does not mean that the storm will be weaker, but that its structure will change. It will grow in scale and cover even more territory.
Although the “cone of uncertainty” is still quite large, it is shrinking every day. Forecast models continue to project land over Cape Breton or the eastern mainland of Nova Scotia.
Hurricane Fiona will track north and into the Maritimes Friday and Saturday afternoon as it transitions to a post-tropical storm. (Ryan Snoddon/CBC)
While there is some uncertainty with the track and other details, the potential impacts are becoming clearer.
The rain will arrive long before Fiona. A cold front moving in from the west will bring its own rain through Thursday and Friday and then start to take advantage of Fiona’s moisture.
LOOK | CBC meteorologist Ryan Snoddon’s full forecast for Fiona
Fiona is likely to become a very strong post-tropical storm by the time it reaches Atlantic Canada
CBC meteorologist Ryan Snoddon says post-tropical means the storm is no longer fueled by water, but by temperature contrasts in the atmosphere. He said Fiona is still on track to bring heavy rain, strong winds and storm surges.
The heaviest rain is expected as Fiona moves through Friday night and Saturday.
Prolonged heavy rain can cause flooding, especially along and to the left of the runway. Rainfall in these areas could reach 100-150 millimeters, or even more.
As the storm builds, very strong winds are expected over a large area. With trees in full leaf, the potential for electrical outages will be high.
The latest forecast models for Hurricane Fiona project landfall over Cape Breton or the eastern mainland of Nova Scotia. (Ryan Snoddon/CBC) Heaviest rain is expected as Fiona moves through Friday night and Saturday, bringing the potential for flooding in some areas. (Ryan Snoddon/CBC)
Widespread gusts in excess of 100 km/h are likely across central and eastern Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, PEI and western and southwestern Newfoundland. In these areas, gusts could exceed 130 km/h, especially in exposed coastal areas.
Even in areas farther west, gusts in excess of 70 km/h appear possible.
Widespread gusts in excess of 100 km/h are likely over central and eastern Nova Scotia, Cape Breton and Prince Edward Island. (Ryan Snoddon/CBC)
Storm surge is also likely. The impact will greatly depend on the path and timing of the storm and how it coincides with high tide. Stay tuned for more details.
It’s time to get ready. Those in the path of the storm should make sure their emergency equipment is ready to go and their propane tank is topped up. Check your downspouts and storm drains are clean and make sure your sump pump and generator are in good working order.
LOOK | Hurricane Fiona makes landfall in Atlantic Canada
Hurricane Fiona makes landfall in Atlantic Canada
Atlantic Canada is bracing for Hurricane Fiona’s impact as the Category 4 storm heads north.
Fire safety during the storm
Erica Fleck is the Assistant Chief of Emergency Management for Halifax Fire and Emergency.
He told CBC News that his crews are preparing for a “major event,” including possible storm surges and flooding. He said fallen leaves could clog basins, keeping water on the surface, and dry soil will take time to absorb it.
Trees could fall and block roads, he added.
He said his staff is prepared to work long hours over the weekend if needed. He urged people with well water to prepare in case they lose power and access to that water.
“The biggest danger is flying objects from people who don’t protect their belongings,” he said, listing trampolines, flower pots, toys, bicycles and other outdoor items. He said if you bring a barbecue inside, turn off the propane and don’t run anything that runs on fuel inside your home.
He also urged people to avoid using candles because of the risk of fire.
“The most important thing is for people to stay inside and stay safe,” he said. “If they need to evacuate, they call 911 and we’ll evacuate them immediately. We’ll have emergency shelters open before the storm.”