Snow coats roads in parts of the Maritimes before heading to Newfoundland

After a slippery start to the week and some noticeable snowfall totals in parts of the Maritimes, Newfoundland will soon get in on the action before another, more potent system threatens additional snow mid-week

This week, a good portion of the eastern half of the country is getting its first taste of the winter season with a shot or two of snowfall.

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In Atlantic Canada, travel routes such as the Cobequid Pass, Mount Thom and Cape Breton Highlands encountered some tricky travel conditions Monday as the snow passed through.

Snow numbers are trickling in across the Maritime provinces, but if you feel left out Newfoundland, just wait a few hours. You will be next.

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Gagetown and Moncton, N.B., have recorded eight and six cm of snowfall, respectively, as of Monday evening

A second, and more widespread, early-season snowfall is expected on Wednesday and Thursday, as well, accompanied by strong winds and rainfall for some areas.

Tuesday morning

By Tuesday morning, some residual snow-showers are ongoing across Newfoundland, with the Maritimes in the clear.

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The season's first measurable snow is always a big deal for drivers who haven’t had to negotiate slick roads in six months, so motorists are being urged to plan ahead and be prepared for the changing conditions.

Eyes on the next, potential, widespread snow mid-week

We are watching the potential for a storm for Atlantic Canada by Wednesday, one that would bring the threat for the first wet snow of the season to Halifax, N.S.

Low pressure will develop over the Atlantic and rapidly intensify as it tracks south of the Maritimes on Wednesday, then heading towards the Avalon Peninsula Wednesday night and into Thursday.

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This forecast is naturally going to be in flux with marginal temperatures and small wobbles in track. Check back with us as we work to refine this snowfall forecast.

As of now, expect breezy conditions for Nova Scotia and gusty winds for Newfoundland, with primarily rain expected for eastern Nova Scotia and southeastern Newfoundland, according to Dr. Doug Gillham, a meteorologist at The Weather Network.

Wet snow is expected for parts of Nova Scotia, especially north and west of Halifax, and across central and western Newfoundland, possibly extending into the Moncton area of southeast New Brunswick with significant totals for parts of the region – especially higher terrain away from coastal areas.

Stay with The Weather Network for the latest updates across Atlantic Canada.

Thumbnail courtesy of Alice Després, taken in Cocagne-Nord, N.B.

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