Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Amherst and Cumberland County North, warning of significant ice pellets and freezing rain starting Tuesday night, March 31, and continuing through Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Residents are encouraged to prepare for potentially hazardous travel conditions and possible power outages as the storm moves through the region.
The weather forecast for Tuesday calls for snow beginning in the morning, followed by a mix of snow and ice pellets late in the afternoon. Total accumulations of 2 to 4 centimetres are expected, with temperatures falling from 2°C down to -1°C. The system is then expected to transition into freezing rain overnight.
Even small amounts of freezing rain on untreated roads and walkways can create dangerous conditions for both drivers and pedestrians. Previous storms in the region have led to hazardous road conditions and partial closures on major routes such as Highway 104, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Heavy ice and wet snow can also weigh down trees and branches, which may cause power outages. Nova Scotia Power prepares for these events by activating emergency operations centres and coordinating with the Department of Emergency Management. For local emergency support, the Cumberland County Emergency Management coordinator can be reached at 902-667-2313.
