Intense Weekend Rainstorm Targets Maritimes, Potential for Gale-Force Winds

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An ample and multifaceted pressure system lurking in the eastern seaboard of the United States is poised to sweep across the Maritimes this forthcoming weekend. This dramatic climatic event, unfolding much like a meticulous symphony, will orchestrate bouts of significant rainfall interlaced with blustery winds.

The ensuing precipitation will make its grand appearance in two carefully timed installments. The curtain will rise on the first act as Saturday morning gradually transitions into the afternoon, conducting rain from the west to the east. Thereafter, the second round of anticipated rainfall will hold the stage from across Saturday night, intensifying into the weeping dawn of Sunday. The aftermath, however, will leave behind traces of lingering showers, extending all the way into the silence of Monday morning.


This intricate weather phenomenon is expected to play out its duet of rain-filled episodes over the Maritimes throughout the course of the weekend. Weather forecasts suggest actionable predictions for Nova Scotia, where predicted rains could range from a moderate 40 mm to an impressive 80 mm. On Prince Edward Island, gauges could read anywhere from 30 to 60 mm, with the eastern province bearing the brunt of the downpour. Lighter showers of 20 to 50 mm are anticipated for southern New Brunswick, while levels of rain around 20 mm could descend upon the northern and western regions of New Brunswick.

Will this structured, yet intense, array of showers cause widespread flooding? Likely not. Given the 24 to 48 hour span over which the rainfall will occur, we hope to evade major flooding woes. Nonetheless, as a precaution, property owners should ensure the swift and unobstructed drainage of rainwaters, particularly by addressing fall debris, such as fallen leaves.

Over this climatically charged weekend, rain totals for particular regions of the Maritimes could very well breach the 50 mm mark. Let’s not overlook the winds, predicted to oscillate briskly on Saturday between 20 to 50 km/h, and potentially peaking between 50 and 80 km/h in eastern Nova Scotia. This wind speed could even exceed 100 km/h due to the distinctive topography of the Highlands, giving northern Inverness County reason to stay alert.

On Sunday, the wind is expected to shift directions to originate from the west and northwest, potentially reaching speeds of 20 to 50 km/h. The southwest coast of Nova Scotia in particular should brace for gusts peaking between 50 and 70 km/h, especially during Sunday morning.