A stalled Nor’easter-type storm system off the U.S. eastern seaboard is finally moving north. The high-pressure system it has been battling all week will direct the centre of the storm east of Sable Island, N.S. While it’s not a direct pass across the Maritimes, there will still be some impacts to the region Thursday into Friday. Rainy Thursday morning commute in Nova Scotia The bulk of the rain from the storm will fall out over the Atlantic Ocean, some will reach Nova Scotia. Thursday morning commuters in the province should be aware that rain will develop up-and-down the Atlantic coastline between 2 a.m. and 7 a.m. There is a risk of localized downpours within the rain. Special weather statements issued Wednesday afternoon by Environment Canada caution on rain amounts reach 50 mm or more in Yarmouth, Shelburne, Queens, Guysborough, Richmond, and Cape Breton Counties. Expect wet roads and reduced visibility in falling rain, have lights and windshield wipers on. If drainage is clogged by fall debris it could lead to ponding water and hydroplaning conditions. Some lighter rain may develop in the remainder of the province. Here is what to watch for Thursday: A word on waves As the storm spun to the east of Virginia and North Carolina it had generated some large coastal waves. As of Wednesday afternoon, a series of coastal flood advisories and warnings were in effect from Salisbury, Maryland to Long Island, New York. Since the centre of the storm passes further east of the Maritimes, the highest waves are forecast to remain offshore. It will be unlikely to see instances of coastal flooding or sudden erosion here. Strong Wind and Gale-Force warnings have been issued for most of the marine areas for the increasing wind on Thursday. Georges Bank and the Scotian Slope could experience a sea building to six to eight metres Thursday evening. Any interests operating in the marine areas Thursday and Friday should be checking on a detailed marine forecast. There will be some crashing waves that develop on the Atlantic coastline of Nova Scotia late Thursday into Friday. The rougher than typical surf will begin to dimmish Friday night into Saturday morning. Wind Friday A gusty northerly wind can be expected in the Maritimes on Friday: Those who might have any easily wind-blown or damaged Halloween decorations out may wish to secure them. Stronger wind gusts are expected in the Cabot Strait and Marine Atlantic Ferries has a travel advisory posted that sailings may be delayed or cancelled. The wind is forecast to gradually ease Friday evening into Saturday morning.
