Severe Storms and Tornado Risk in the Maritimes on Friday Residents of the Maritimes are being urged to prepare for severe storms and a potential tornado risk on Friday. Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the region, warning of a low-pressure system that will bring strong winds, heavy rain, and possibly tornadoes. Areas at Risk The following areas are expected to be most affected: * Nova Scotia: Eastern Shore * New Brunswick: Southeast * Prince Edward Island: Eastern and central Potential Impacts The storm is expected to bring: * Damaging wind gusts of up to 100 km/h * Torrential rain, leading to flash flooding * Hail * A risk of tornadoes Tornado Safety In the event of a tornado warning: * Seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building. * Go to a basement or interior room on the lowest floor. * Stay away from windows and external doors. * Cover your head with a blanket or pillow. General Storm Safety * Secure loose objects outside, such as furniture or garbage cans. * Have an emergency plan in place, including a place to shelter. * Keep a battery-powered radio or flashlight nearby. * Stay informed about the latest weather updates. Expected Timeline The storm is expected to reach the Maritimes late on Thursday and intensify on Friday. The most severe weather is anticipated between 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm on Friday. The storm is expected to weaken and move out of the region by Saturday morning. Residents are advised to monitor the situation closely and follow the instructions of local authorities. For up-to-date weather information, please visit Environment Canada’s website: https://weather.gc.ca/warnings/report_e.html?prov=ns.Severe Thunderstorm Risk for Maritimes on FridaySevere Thunderstorm Risk for Maritimes on Friday A powerful low-pressure system is crossing the country, bringing a risk of severe thunderstorms to parts of the Maritimes on Friday. Widespread thunderstorms are expected throughout the day, with some becoming severe in eastern Quebec and New Brunswick. The risk of tornadoes is also present. Residents are advised to monitor weather forecasts and have a plan in place for seeking shelter if necessary. Strong Storms from Cold Front The thunderstorms are expected to develop along the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec in the late morning, pushing eastward with the cold front. A line of thunderstorms will form along the front as it moves through New Brunswick in the afternoon. The strongest storms may bring strong wind gusts, large hail, and heavy rainfall. Areas at Risk Areas northwest of Fredericton, such as Grand Falls and Perth-Andover, are at the highest risk for severe weather. The threat will diminish in the evening as the cold front moves eastward. Non-severe thunderstorms are likely in Nova Scotia overnight. Heat Wave Next Week After the storm risk passes, a stretch of hot weather is expected for the eastern half of the country. Extreme heat warnings are possible, with temperatures reaching record levels. Humidex values could reach the 40s at times. Residents are advised to prepare for the heat and take precautions, especially those vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.Parts of the Maritimes are under a severe thunderstorm watch, with the potential for tornadoes, on Friday. Environment Canada has issued the watch for parts of Nova Scotia, including Halifax, Bridgewater, and Yarmouth, as well as parts of New Brunswick, including Moncton, Dieppe, and Saint John. The weather agency says the storms are expected to develop late Friday afternoon and evening. They could bring strong winds, hail, and heavy rain. There is also a risk of tornadoes, although Environment Canada says the risk is low. Residents in the affected areas are advised to be prepared for severe weather. They should have a plan in place to take shelter if a tornado warning is issued. They should also secure loose objects around their homes and businesses. Environment Canada will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.