Over 120,000 without power in Nova Scotia as winter storm hits eastern Canada

HAMILTON, Canada

More than 120,000 homes and businesses across Nova Scotia were without electricity on Monday after a winter storm dumped heavy, wet snow across eastern Canada overnight, according to media reports.

Utility crews worked to restore power as snow-laden trees and ice-coated power lines collapsed under the weight of the storm, which brought between 15 and 20 centimeters (5.9 to 7.9 inches) of snow to central, eastern and northern parts of the province.

Schools and government offices were closed or delayed across Nova Scotia and neighbouring provinces, while numerous health-care appointments and services were cancelled, reports said.

In a post on the US social media company X, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police warned motorists to avoid travel after a series of collisions on two major highways in Cumberland and Colchester counties led to partial closures and hazardous driving conditions.

Environment Canada also urged residents clearing snow to "take frequent breaks and avoid strain when clearing snow."

Authorities said restoration efforts would continue throughout the day as weather conditions gradually improved and crews assessed widespread damage to the power grid.

In a statement, Nova Scotia’s Executive Council Office said "provincial government offices in Cape Breton Regional Municipality, Antigonish, Guysborough, Richmond, Victoria and Inverness counties will open at 11 a.m. today, January 19, because of weather conditions."