All public schools in Nova Scotia have been forced to close on Friday as a result of overnight freezing rain and ice buildup on roads and sidewalks.
According to a special weather statement by Environment Canada on Thursday, a total rainfall accumulation of 15 to 30 millimetres is forecast for the province, with the highest amounts expected along the Atlantic coast.
The warning said rain is expected on Friday morning as temperatures rise following the overnight freezing rain.
A number of university campuses in Halifax have announced their closure, including Saint Mary’s University and Nova Scotia College of Art and Design.
Due to weather conditions, Cape Breton University’s campus has also announced its closure for the morning, adding that the status of afternoon classes will be announced by 11:30 a.m.
READ MORE: Atlantic provinces prepare for nasty weather as Environment Canada issues warnings
Nova Scotia Community College’s Metro, Cape Breton, Annapolis Valley, Cumberland, Kingstec, Lunenburg, Pictou and Truro campuses are also closed.
Several other Halifax organizations and businesses were forced to close as well. For a full list, click here.
“Our Emergency Operations Centre continues to closely monitor the weather forecasts and make adjustments as needed to ensure we can respond as needed for our customers,” N.S. Power said.
Very strong southwesterly winds are forecast this Friday evening and overnight for the Halifax metro area and Halifax County West, according to Environment Canada.
Winds are expected to reach up to 110 kilometres per hour.
Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) announced that the overnight parking ban will continue from 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. on Saturday to allow crews to properly clear the streets and sidewalks.
More to come.