Post-tropical storm Lee is wreaking havoc across the Maritime provinces of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, causing widespread power outages, destructive winds, heavy rains, and potential flooding. As of now, more than 132,000 customers are without electricity in Nova Scotia, and the number is rising rapidly. The Halifax Stanfield International Airport has cancelled numerous flights, leaving travelers stranded.
Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to storm surges and flooding. Halifax municipal councilor Pam Lovelace reported that some coastal roads are already submerged, and boats in St. Margarets Bay have been flooded. Emergency crews are urging residents to avoid driving and steer clear of coastal areas until the storm passes. Lovelace emphasized the importance of checking in on neighbors’ mental health, as the relentless onslaught of natural disasters has taken a toll on the community.
Authorities are also urging people to be prepared for possible evacuation if the situation worsens. Lee, which transitioned from a hurricane to a post-tropical storm, is expected to make landfall later this afternoon. The storm is moving at a rapid pace, with sustained winds of approximately 130 kilometers per hour. Environment Canada has issued warnings for heavy rainfall and possible flooding in southwestern Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, as well as dangerous storm surges along Nova Scotia’s central Atlantic coast.
With wind gusts potentially reaching 120 kilometers per hour, trees and power lines are at risk of being toppled. A hurricane watch is in effect for Grand Manan Island, coastal Charlotte County in New Brunswick, and the majority of Nova Scotia’s Atlantic coast. A tropical storm warning remains in place for most of Nova Scotia and parts of New Brunswick along the Bay of Fundy coast and the Northumberland Strait.
As families and travelers face the chaos brought on by the storm, preparation and caution remain key. While some have been able to find ways to enjoy their time, like a family from the United States gathered in a hotel in St. George, New Brunswick, others are feeling the weight of these back-to-back disasters.
FAQ:
Q: What are the current conditions in the Maritime provinces?
A: The Maritime provinces are currently facing post-tropical storm Lee, causing power outages, destructive winds, heavy rains, and potential flooding.
Q: How many customers are without electricity in Nova Scotia?
A: As of now, more than 132,000 customers are without power in Nova Scotia.
Q: What precautions are authorities advising?
A: Residents are being warned to stay off the roads and avoid coastal areas until the storm passes.