Halifax under rainfall warning ahead of warm-up, storm

CITYnews halifax / By Dan Ahlstrand

A rainfall warning is issued for the Halifax area with wet weather in the forecast for Thursday.

Environment Canada issued the warning on Wednesday afternoon, replacing a previous special weather statement.

The rainfall warning now calls for 25 to 40 millimetres of rain Thursday afternoon into Friday morning. That rain is expected to follow a few hours of snow, according to the national forecaster.

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“Be sure to clear storm drains and gutters of ice and other debris in advance of this system,” Environment Canada wrote. “Mild temperatures accompanying the rain and strong winds will lead to significant snowmelt and excessive runoff.”

The national forecaster says localized flooding is possible in low-lying areas and heavy rain could cause flash flooding and pooling on roads.

Halifax Water is also encouraging customers to check catch basins and to clear them if need be.

It is expected to be a high of 5 C on Wednesday and 4 C on Thursday. By the start of the weekend cooler temperatures are expected to return.

The winds will also pick up on Thursday with gusts from the south expected in the 60-80 km/h range through the day