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Subtropical Storm Josephine is tracking northeast along the Atlantic coast and is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to parts of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland on Thursday and Friday. The storm has already disrupted travel along the U.S. Eastern Seaboard this week, forcing a major cruise ship to change course and dock in Halifax instead of reaching its intended destinations.
Warnings Issued for Nova Scotia and Newfoundland
Environment Canada issued yellow rainfall warnings for parts of northern and eastern Nova Scotia on Thursday. The agency expects rainfall totals of between 50 and 70 millimetres in those areas.
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In addition, Environment Canada issued wind warnings for the south coast of Newfoundland. Forecasters expect wind gusts of up to 100 kilometres per hour along the coast on Friday afternoon and evening.
The storm began as a low pressure system and is currently moving off the Atlantic coast of the United States. It is heading northeast, bringing increasingly severe conditions as it approaches Atlantic Canada.
Cruise Ship Diverts to Halifax
Earlier this week, the storm brought heavy rain and strong winds to the U.S. Eastern Seaboard. As a result, a Royal Caribbean cruise ship had to abandon its original route.
The Oasis of the Seas departed Cape Liberty, New Jersey on Sunday with approximately 5,000 passengers on board. The ship was originally heading to Florida and the Bahamas. However, the storm forced the vessel to divert to Halifax instead, where it docked on Tuesday night and remained through Wednesday.
The diversion highlighted the storm’s significant impact on travel and shipping along the eastern coast of North America. Subtropical Storm Josephine continued to strengthen as it moved away from the U.S. coast and toward Atlantic Canada.
What to Expect in the Coming Days
Residents in affected areas of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland should prepare for difficult conditions through the end of the week. Heavy rainfall may cause localized flooding in some areas of Nova Scotia on Thursday.
Meanwhile, coastal communities in Newfoundland face the greatest risk from high winds on Friday. Gusts reaching 100 kilometres per hour can pose dangers to travel, infrastructure and outdoor activities. Authorities are urging residents to monitor updated forecasts and follow any guidance from local emergency services as the storm moves through the region.
