Environment Canada has issued tropical storm and hurricane watches across the Atlantic region in anticipation of Hurricane Fiona.
The hurricane is expected to make landfall Saturday morning, with heavy rain and wind expected across much of Atlantic Canada.
Environment Canada warns that the tropical storm and hurricane watches, which were issued Thursday at noon, could be upgraded to hurricane warnings by evening.
The weather service says the Halifax area may avoid hurricane conditions, but meteorologists will have a better idea of the storm’s track tonight.
A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible over parts of the region within 36 hours.
Conditions on Cape Breton Island and Prince Edward Island are expected to be dangerous on Saturday, with Environment Canada warning of possible severe and damaging wind gusts, in addition to very high waves and surges coastal storms and intense rainfall capable of local flooding.
“Hurricane Fiona is expected to merge with a trough and develop into a dangerous hurricane after the tropical cyclone on Saturday,” read a special weather statement for Prince Edward Island. “The combination of Fiona and the trough will produce very heavy rain from Friday evening. Flooding and washed out roads are likely in some areas.
Environment Canada warns that storms of a similar nature have resulted in “prolonged utility outages and structural damage”, with buildings under construction being particularly vulnerable.
The weather service is encouraging residents of Atlantic Canada to prepare emergency kits ahead of the storm. They recommend storing food and water for up to 72 hours, a way to charge mobile phones if no landline is available, and securing or removing outdoor furniture.
“Environment Canada meteorologists will continue to monitor the situation and provide more details as Fiona approaches,” the statement said.