First wallop of winter weather in 2024 arrives in Nova Scotia

The first wallop of winter weather in 2024arrived Sunday and is expected to continue until Monday morning.

The highest snowfall amounts are expectedon Sunday evening in the southwest of the province with up to 25 centimetresexpected in the Yarmouth, Shelburne and South Shore areas, according toCBC meteorologist Ryan Snoddon.

The snow will be on the fluffier side, Snoddon said, which could lead to blowing and driftingas the northeast winds gust 40-60 km/hand up to 80 km/hin the southwest.

Winter storm warnings have been issued by Environment Canada for Lunenburg, Queens, Shelburne and Yarmouth counties.

There is also a snowfall warning for Digby County. According to Environment Canada, up to 20 centimetres of snow could fall in southern parts of the county, but a shift in the storm system could bring similar amounts to the north.

Special weather statements have been issued by Environment Canada for Annapolis County,Halifax Metro and Halifax County West. Those areas could receive from five to 15 centimetres of snowfall..

Shelter space

A temporary shelter will operate out of the Halifax Forum from noon Sunday until noon Monday, with beds for 50 people. Transportation will be available forthose in need.

"We'll probably have full capacity," said Marcus James with 902 Man Up, which is operating the shelter. James said people who come to the shelter will also be given warm food and drinks.

LesliePorter, a volunteer based in Windsor, N.S.,said those who need to keep warmin the West Hants area cango tothe Windsor community centre.

A group of volunteers established the drop-in warming centre over theholidays. It is open from 7 p.m.to 1 a.m. everyday except Thursdays in January. Porter said the hours were expanded this weekend due to the cold weather.

"We managed to have enough emergency volunteers pullforward and work overnight. So we're going to be open 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.," she said.

Porter saidfive people used the space overnight Saturday and expects them to return Sunday evening.

Parking ban in effect

Anyone experiencing homelessness can call 211 to learn more about shelter options across the province.

Weather conditions are expected to improve early Monday, according to Environment Canada.

HalifaxRegional Municipality will enforce an overnight parking ban from 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. on Monday. Enforcement will occur in central and non-central zones. Residents can enter their address onlinefor further information.