Blast of winter coming for Cape Breton, parts of N.S mainland

Periods of snow are forecast to start overnight in western Cape Breton before a winter wallop moves into the rest of the island and part of mainland Nova Scotia on Sunday.

Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning for Inverness and Victoria counties that could see up to 30 centimetres of snow, with possibly 60 centimetres in the Cape Breton Highlands by Monday night.

The rest of the island could see up to 15 centimetres and is under a special weather statement. Environment Canada has also issued a wind warning for Richmond and Cape Breton counties.

A special weather statement is also in place for Antigonish and Pictou counties where up to 15 centimetres is in the forecast Sunday into Monday.

Environment Canada said while snowfall totals remain uncertain, strong winds accompanying the snow will cause reduced visibility. Motorists are asked to consider postponing non-essential travel in the area.

Marine Atlantic has cancelled two ferry crossings scheduled to depart on Saturday night. Four Sunday departures have also been cancelled and the service anticipates weather could affect two Monday morning crossings.

As for the rest of the mainland, Environment Canada says there is a chance of flurries in Halifax, Amherst and Yarmouth on Sunday.