NL

Freezing rain closes some N.L. schools, winter storm for Labrador

A number of schools in Newfoundland and some in Labrador area are closed Thursday due to freezing rain and ice pellets.

Winter storm warning in effect for parts of Labrador, Northern Peninsula

Environment Canada has issued weather warnings for much of New Brunswick with heavy snow on the way in the northwest, freezing rain in the northeast, and heavy rain in the southwest.
Freezing rain and ice pellets have closed a number of schools in central Newfoundland Thursday morning. (The Associated Press)

A number of schools in Newfoundland and some in Labrador are closed Thursday due to freezing rain, snow and ice pellets.

Environment Canada has a special weather statement in effect for the western and central regions, warning of ice pellets, freezing rain or rain for much of Newfoundland through to Thursday afternoon.

The Newfoundland and Labrador English School District lists a number of schools that are staying closed for the day due to the weather.

A map of the weather warnings and statements in effect Thursday morning. (Environment Canada)

Marine Atlantic has cancelled Thursday night's crossing to North Sydney.

In eastern Newfoundland, a wind warning is in effect for Thursday, with gusts expected up to 100 km/h on parts of the Avalon and Bonavista peninsulas and Terra Nova.

Meanwhile, the Northern Peninsula and parts of southern Labrador have a winter storm warning in effect.

Overnight snowfall should end Thursday morning, but more snow is expected to start in the afternoon and become heavy at times through the evening.

Snowfall amounts between 15 and 25 centimetres can be expected by Friday morning in the Norman Bay, Red Bay, Eagle River and Cartwright areas.

Strong northeasterly winds are also expected overnight and into Friday, with gusts up to 120 km/h over the coast.

That will make for poor visibility at times, Environment Canada warns.