Nova Scotia is grappling with the aftermath of an extraordinary multi-day snowstorm, which has dumped unprecedented amounts of snow across the province, leading to a local state of emergency in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. This historic event has severely disrupted travel, leaving communities isolated and prompting urgent calls for residents to stay indoors.
The storm, which has been compared to the legendary “White Juan” blizzard of 2004, saw areas like downtown Sydney buried under 150 centimetres of snow, with the Sydney airport receiving more than 90 centimetres. This level of snowfall has not been seen since the early 1990s, marking the storm as potentially the largest multi-day snowfall event for the area in decades.
The Cape Breton Regional Police responded to over 550 calls for service during the weekend, dealing with car accidents, stranded motorists, and abandoned vehicles. Despite warnings, many residents ventured out, leading to significant challenges for emergency services.
Kent Peters of Dream Stables in Albert Bridge, Cape Breton, was busy clearing several feet of snow from the riding facility’s barn roof on Sunday. Peters and his wife, Deanna Peters, have been caring for 38 horses throughout a powerful winter storm that is currently hitting northeastern Nova Scotia (Joe Pembroke)
Cape Breton’s Mayor, Amanda McDougall, stressed the gravity of the situation, noting that the seven-day state of emergency would allow for critical control over travel and aid distribution. The main concern now shifts to the structural safety of buildings under the weight of the snow.
Provincial authorities have been stretched to their limits, with reports of snow removal equipment breaking under the strain. Efforts are being concentrated in the eastern parts of the province, which have been hit hardest by the snow and wind.
The storm’s impact extends beyond immediate snow removal challenges. A structure fire in Sydney worsens the emergency response situation, displacing eight people. The broader community is also facing significant power outages, with over 7,000 Nova Scotia Power customers affected.
As Nova Scotia begins its recovery, schools across the province have shuttered, and many government services remain suspended. The transportation sector is at a standstill, with major highways experiencing closures and public transit services, including Transit Cape Breton, halting operations.
