Nova Scotia School Closures: Winter Storm Disrupts Atlantic Canada
HALIFAX – A powerful winter storm swept across Atlantic Canada, bringing significant snowfall and icy conditions that led to widespread disruptions, including school closures in Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island (PEI), and the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador. The storm, which impacted the region from Monday afternoon through Tuesday, left many communities grappling with heavy snow accumulation and challenging travel conditions.
Snowfall Totals and Impact
Environment Canada reported snowfall totals ranging from 20 to 30 centimetres across much of Nova Scotia. The Halifax area experienced an average of 25 cm, while central regions near Truro were hit with a substantial 35 cm of snow. Eastern New Brunswick also faced significant snowfall, with Moncton recording 27 cm. Prince Edward Island saw nearly 20 cm of snow, with Charlottetown and Summerside receiving 19 cm and 16 cm respectively.
School Closures and Reopening Status
Due to the hazardous conditions, public schools in Nova Scotia, PEI, and St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador were closed on Tuesday to ensure the safety of students and staff. As of Tuesday afternoon, the reopening status for Wednesday remained uncertain. However, officials from New Brunswick’s Anglophone East School District indicated a likely reopening. Parents and students are advised to check with their local school boards for the most up-to-date information.
Power Outages and Recovery Efforts
The heavy snow and strong winds also caused power outages across the region. Nova Scotia Power reported fewer than 1,500 customers without power by Tuesday afternoon, while NB Power reported fewer than 10 outages. Crews are working diligently to restore power and clear roadways.
Eastern Newfoundland Hit Hard
Parts of eastern Newfoundland have been particularly hard hit by a series of back-to-back storms. Environment Canada data reveals that the St. John’s suburb of Paradise has accumulated over 150 cm of snow in the past week. This prolonged period of heavy snowfall has presented significant challenges for residents and emergency services.
Stay informed about the latest weather updates and road conditions through Environment Canada and your local news sources.
This report was originally published by The Canadian Press on February 24, 2026.
