As post-tropical storm Lee barrels hit towards Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Thousands of residents are grappling with power outages, downed trees, and hazardous road conditions. Lee, which transitioned from a Category 1 hurricane to a post-tropical storm, has left more than 138,000 customers without electricity. It is prompting authorities to issue warnings and take precautions. This article delves into the current situation and provides insights into the storm’s impact on the Maritimes.
Meteorological experts are warning residents of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick that they are not out of danger yet. Despite transitioning to a post-tropical storm, Lee continues to pack a punch with sustained winds near Category 1 hurricane strength, reaching speeds of around 120 km/h at its center. CBC meteorologist Ryan Snoddon cautions that this is going to be a long and challenging day for the Maritimes.
Residents are bracing themselves for a relentless onslaught of high winds throughout the day and night. Lee’s impact is expected to persist until Sunday morning when conditions are finally expected to improve. These sustained winds, especially along the Atlantic coastline, are causing significant disruptions.
Impacts on the Coastal Regions
Lee is moving at a faster pace than initially predicted, heightening concerns about storm surges along the coast. Wind gusts in southwestern Nova Scotia have already reached 90-110 km/h, and the region has experienced rainfall amounts of 30-60 millimeters. The situation is further complicated by downed trees and utility lines, creating hazards along the province’s Atlantic coastline.
Nova Scotia RCMP have issued a stern warning, urging people to stay off the roads due to the dangerous conditions. The combination of water, downed trees, and utility lines poses significant risks to both motorists and first responders. Mayor Mike Savage of the Halifax Regional Municipality echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that the worst of the storm is yet to come.
Power Outages and Response Efforts
The power outage situation is dire, with more than 140,000 Nova Scotia Power customers without electricity, primarily in the Halifax area, the South Shore, and the Annapolis Valley. In New Brunswick, over 36,000 customers are also grappling with power outages. Both power companies have deployed teams to assess and restore power, but safety concerns are impeding progress. Strong winds exceeding 80 km/h make it unsafe for crews to work in bucket trucks, prompting a focus on ground-based assessments and repairs.
The storm is not just affecting power; it’s also impacting communication infrastructure. In Shelburne, cell coverage is reportedly affected, and there are reports of a Bell outage in Dartmouth, Halifax. Despite the challenges, some residents, particularly those involved in the fishery, have ventured out to check on their properties, mainly located near the wharf. The condition of the wharf and its ability to withstand potential storm surges remain a significant concern.
As post-tropical storm Lee continues its path through Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, residents are advised to prioritize safety, stay off the roads, and heed warnings from authorities. With power outages and challenging conditions persisting, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and patient until the storm subsides. Authorities, power companies, and emergency responders are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact of Lee and ensure the safety of the affected communities.
