HALIFAX – With late summer storms on the way for Nova Scotia, including tropical storm Gabrielle, the Nova Scotia Emergency Management Office (EMO) is advising people to prepare accordingly.
The Canadian Hurricane Centre says Gabrielle has passed Bermuda and is expected to drench Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and western Newfoundland as early as Friday morning.
The centre says there are a range of forecast models on the storm’s location, timing and intensity, but heavy rains are expected.
Forecasters say gale-force winds – meaning winds of 61 to 90 kilometres per hour – will likely develop ahead of the storm over southern Maritime waters early Friday before spreading to Newfoundland waters on Saturday.
Models show wave heights up to six metres are possible once Gabrielle enters Canadian waters.
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Recommendations on how to prepare before a major storm:
- Make a 72-hour emergency kit that is easy to carry, including food that won’t spoil — such as canned or dried goods — and at least two litres of water per person, per day.
- Other suggested items for your kit include: a flashlight, batteries, a first-aid kit, extra sets of house and car keys and cash in small bills and change.
- If someone in your household has special needs, such as prescription medicines or equipment for a disability, make sure those are on hand or easily accessed.
- EMO in Nova Scotia says people should have an emergency plan in case of evacuation, and to stay up-to-date on the latest storm forecasts. You should have a battery-powered radio on hand to listen to updates in case power goes out during the storm.
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For more information:
Environment Canada Weather Warnings
National Hurricane Centre (U.S.)
Emergency Measures Organization: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador
Canadian Red Cross disaster preparedness calculator (Facebook app)
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