Ferry Crossings Cancelled as Severe Cold Hits Atlantic Canada

URGENT UPDATE: Ferry crossings have been cancelled across parts of Atlantic Canada as a dangerous cold front sweeps through the region, affecting travel and daily life. Authorities are warning residents to prepare for severe weather conditions, with temperatures expected to plunge to between -30 and -33 degrees Celsius overnight and into Friday morning.

Weather alerts are in effect, with Yellow cold warnings issued for northwestern New Brunswick. The warning states, “A northwesterly flow of arctic air will bring extremely cold conditions to the region.” Residents are advised to dress warmly in layers and ensure their outer layer is wind-resistant.

Furthermore, Yellow wind warnings are in place for northwestern Cape Breton, where gusts could reach up to 90 km/h starting Friday morning. Snow squall watches have also been issued for areas including Pictou and Antigonish counties, as well as western Cape Breton. The forecast indicates that flurries may intensify into snow squalls as cold winds sweep across the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Travel disruptions are significant. Marine Atlantic has confirmed the cancellation of ferry sailings for Thursday, specifically between North Sydney and Port aux Basques. Crossings on Friday are also expected to be affected, with the service anticipating further cancellations on Saturday morning. The Fundy Rose ferry to Saint John, N.B., will depart from Digby, N.S. early at 4 p.m. Thursday, but all conditions are subject to change.

In addition, Northumberland Ferries has warned that high winds in the Northumberland Strait may lead to service delays or cancellations on Thursday and Friday.

As of 7:30 a.m., there are no widespread power outages reported in New Brunswick or Prince Edward Island. However, over 1,200 customers in Nova Scotia remain without electricity following Wednesday’s storm, which at its peak impacted over 25,000 Nova Scotia Power customers.

Residents are urged to stay updated and take precautions as this severe weather unfolds. For the latest updates, follow local news sources and stay safe during these extreme conditions.