Environment Canada expects to issue rainfall warning Friday morning; HRM urges residents to clear storm drains

Rain forecast. 9Dagley media photo)

HALIFAX: Nova Scotians are being warned to prepare for heavy rainfall over an extended period from Friday, February 23 to Saturday, February 24.

In an update to the special weather statement issued Thursday evening, Feb. 22, Environment Canada said strong winds are expected in addition to the significant rainfall.

“The frozen ground is no longer able to absorb this rain,” Environment Canada said in the statement.

A total rainfall of 25 to 50 millimeters of the wet mass is forecast.

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Maximum wind gusts are reported to be southerly 70 to 90 km/h, with most of Nova Scotia, including Cape Breton, expected to be affected.

“Similar storms in the past have resulted in water accumulation on roads and localized flooding in low-lying areas,” EC said in its statement.

“There may be significant snowmelt and runoff.”

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Rain warnings are expected to remain in place until Friday morning.

Please continue to monitor Environment Canada's warnings and forecasts.

To report severe weather, email [email protected] or tweet reports using #NSStorm.

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In a post on Twitter/X, Halifax Regional Municipality also sent a message to community residents.

HRM urges residents to clear snow and dust from storm drains/collection basins near your property if it is safe to do so, given the heavy rainfall and strong winds forecast for Friday (February 23) through Saturday.

This reduces the likelihood of flooding.