The hurricane will track north and into the Maritimes late Friday and Saturday as it transitions into a post-tropical storm. This metatropical transition does not mean that the storm will be weaker, but its structure will change. It will grow in scale and cover even more ground. While the “cone of uncertainty” is still quite large, it is getting narrower every day. Forecast models continue to project landfall at Cape Breton or the eastern mainland of Nova Scotia. While some uncertainty remains with the track and other details, the potential implications are becoming clearer. The rain will arrive much earlier than Fiona. A cold front moving in from the west will bring its own rain from Thursday and Friday and then begin to suck up moisture from Fiona. Hurricane Fiona will track north and into the Maritimes late Friday and Saturday as it transitions into a post-tropical storm. (Ryan Snoddon/CBC) The heaviest rainfall is expected as Fiona moves through Friday night and Saturday. Prolonged heavy rain will bring the potential for flooding, particularly along and to the left of the track. Rainfall amounts in these areas could reach 100-150mm or more. As the storm grows, very strong winds are expected over a wide area. With the trees in full leaf, the potential for power outages will be high. The latest forecast models for Hurricane Fiona project landfall over Cape Breton or the eastern mainland of Nova Scotia. (Ryan Snoddon/CBC) The heaviest rainfall is expected as Fiona continues Friday night and Saturday and will bring the potential for flooding to some areas. (Ryan Snoddon/CBC) Extended gusts in excess of 100 km/h are possible across central and eastern Nova Scotia, Cape Breton and PEI In these areas, gusts could exceed 130 km/h, especially in exposed coastal areas. Even in areas further west, gusts in excess of 70 km/h look possible. Extended gusts in excess of 100 km/h are possible across central and eastern Nova Scotia, Cape Breton and Prince Edward Island. (Ryan Snoddon/CBC) A storm surge is also possible. The impact will largely depend on the track and timing of the storm and how it coincides with high tide. Stay tuned for more details. It’s time to prepare. Make sure the emergency kit is ready for use and the propane tank is filled. Make sure your downspouts and storm drains are clear and make sure your sump pump and generator are working.
