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A slow-moving low pressure system is expected to bring unsettled weather to the Maritimes through the weekend, according to Environment Canada meteorologist Ian Hubbard.
Hubbard says the system, currently tracking northeast from Cape Cod, is weakening as it moves into the Bay of Fundy — helping to limit the severity of the impacts. Still, residents along the Atlantic coast can expect heavy rain, isolated lightning, and strong wind gusts during the first half of the weekend.
“There’s quite a bit of lightning down over the South Shore and some strong gusts this morning and afternoon,” said Hubbard, noting the most active conditions should taper off by Saturday evening.
No widespread weather alerts have been issued at this point, with the exception of some strong southeasterly winds in western Cape Breton. Rainfall totals are not expected to meet the threshold for warnings, and wind speeds are forecast to remain just below warning criteria elsewhere in the province.
The system is expected to linger over the region, bringing widespread cloud cover and damp conditions through Sunday. That cloud cover will also help prevent frost, despite the cooler temperatures.
“Clouds act like a blanket,” Hubbard explained. “Even with cool air, the moisture and overcast skies will help keep frost from forming.”
While the weekend may feel like more of the same, there’s some welcome news on the horizon. By early next week, a ridge of high pressure is forecast to build over eastern Canada, bringing clearer skies and a return to warmer-than-normal temperatures for late May.
“By Tuesday or Wednesday, we could see several areas hit the 20s again,” Hubbard said. “That’ll be a nice change after the damp, cool stretch we’ve had lately.”
