Get ready for a turbulent end to the week, Saint John. Environment Canada has issued both rainfall and wind warnings for the region, effective this Friday, December 19, signaling a dramatic shift in weather that will extend into the weekend.

Weather Warnings in Effect

According to the latest forecast from Environment Canada, southern New Brunswick is under two key warnings:

• Rainfall Warning: Prepare for significant rainfall of 25 to 40 mm, combined with melting snow from unseasonably mild temperatures. This is expected from Friday afternoon until early Saturday morning. Residents should ensure storm drains and gutters are clear to prevent localized flooding.
• Wind Warning: Strong southerly winds are predicted to develop late Friday afternoon, with gusts reaching 70 to 90 km/h. Along the Fundy coast, these gusts could hit a damaging 110 km/h. You should secure any loose outdoor items to prevent them from being blown around.

Friday’s Forecast: A Wild Ride

Friday will start with cloudy skies before rain begins late in the morning. You can expect about 10 mm of rain during the day as the high reaches an unusually warm 12°C. Winds will pick up significantly, shifting from southwest at 40 km/h to south at 50 km/h with gusts up to 70 km/h in the afternoon.

The intensity increases Friday night. Rain will become heavy at times, with a risk of thunderstorms in the evening, dropping another 20 to 30 mm of precipitation. Winds will become severe, with southerly gusts up to 110 km/h before shifting to the west overnight. The temperature will then plummet to a low of -2°C, with a wind chill making it feel like -10°C.

Weekend Outlook

Saturday, December 20

The storm will move out on Saturday, with skies clearing late in the morning. It will be much colder, as the temperature holds steady near -2°C, but a brisk west wind gusting to 70 km/h will make it feel like -11°C. Saturday night will see clouds increase again, with a low of -5°C.

Sunday, December 21

Sunday brings a mix of precipitation with flurries or rain showers expected as the high climbs back above freezing to 3°C. The night will remain cloudy with a 30 percent chance of flurries and a low of -4°C.

A Look at Next Week

The colder temperatures stick around into next week. Monday calls for flurries with a high of -2°C, dropping to -13°C overnight. Tuesday will see a mix of sun and cloud with a high of -8°C, followed by more flurries on Wednesday and Thursday.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much rain is expected in total?

The forecast predicts a total rainfall of 30 to 40 mm between Friday morning and early Saturday morning.

How strong will the winds be?

Wind gusts are expected to reach 70 to 90 km/h across the region, with gusts potentially reaching 110 km/h along the Fundy coast on Friday evening.

What causes the sudden temperature drop?

The sharp drop in temperature from a high of 12°C on Friday to -2°C on Saturday is caused by a strong cold front passing through the region after the storm system moves out.

What precautions should I take?

You should secure outdoor furniture and decorations, clear storm drains of debris, and check travel plans in advance as delays are possible. Be prepared for potential power outages due to the high winds.