Special weather statement remains in effect for Prince, Queens counties

The special weather statement has been dropped for Kings County but remains in effect for the rest of the Island. (Jay Scotland/CBC - image credit)
The special weather statement has been dropped for Kings County but remains in effect for the rest of the Island. (Jay Scotland/CBC - image credit)

A special weather statement remains in effect for P.E.I.'s Prince and Queens counties as the first significant snowfall of the season is expected to fall overnight Thursday.

Kings County had been included in the special weather statement but was dropped Thursday afternoon.

CBC meteorologist Jay Scotland says a messy mix of rain and wet snow is expected Thursday evening, before transitioning to wet snow overnight and rain by Friday morning.

"It looks like the heaviest snow potential is up west, and also over higher terrain areas where there is the potential for 10 to 15 centimetres of slushy accumulation by early Friday morning, although there will be a lot of melting and mixing as well," Scotland said.

As much as 15 centimetres could fall in parts of the Island.
As much as 15 centimetres could fall in parts of the Island.

As much as 15 centimetres could fall in parts of the Island. (Jay Scotland/CBC)

"For most areas, Islanders should prepare for snowfall near five centimetres to as much as 10 centimetres of slushy accumulation into early Friday morning (potentially less for coastal areas) but the temperature climbs early Friday morning, so a lot of what sticks may not last very long."

He warns overnight Thursday and early Friday morning look to be the most problematic for commuters in this first snowfall of the season.

"It may not be a lot of snow for most of P.E.I., but Islanders should be ready for a slushy and slippery commute on Friday morning."

Environment Canada issued a similar warning.

"Travel could become difficult with accumulating snow during the overnight hours. If you must travel, be prepared for delays and allow extra time to reach your destination," the special weather statement reads.

"Motorists should be prepared for winter driving conditions."