Lee is hovering off the coast of Nova Scotia right now, just under 400 kilometres southwest of Halifax. It is currently classified as a powerful a post-tropical storm. According to Environment Canada, it will continue to batter much of the Maritimes today with heavy rain, strong winds, and high waves along the Atlantic coast.

The storm is tracking to reach the mainland this afternoon, with t’s sights set on Yarmouth.

Hurricane History

Nova Scotia, situated on Canada’s eastern coast, has a history of being affected by hurricanes and tropical storms. One of the most devastating hurricanes in its history was Hurricane Juan in 2003. This Category 2 hurricane struck on September 29, causing extensive damage. It brought heavy rain, strong winds, and a powerful storm surge. The storm resulted in six fatalities and caused widespread destruction, with estimated damages exceeding $100 million. Thousands of homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed, and the province’s power infrastructure was severely affected, leaving many without electricity for an extended period.

Hurricane Dorian hit in late August of 2019, although it did not make landfall directly in Nova Scotia, it still had a profound impact. As a Category 2 hurricane, Dorian unleashed powerful winds and torrential rains, leading to massive power outages and significant property damage across the province. It disrupted daily life and triggered a massive cleanup effort.

While these were among the most destructive storms, Nova Scotia has a long history of experiencing hurricanes and tropical storms, with lesser but still notable events like Hurricane Earl in 2010 and Hurricane Bill in 2009.

Overall, hurricanes and tropical storms pose a recurring threat to Nova Scotia, emphasizing the need for preparedness, effective evacuation plans, and resilient infrastructure to minimize the impact of future storms on the province.

The record for rainfall for Yarmouth for September 16th was set in 1940 when a Hurricane dropped over 100mm of rain.With files from Kevin Northup, Kelli Rickard, Caitlin Snow, Joe Thomson, Evan Taylor, Steve MacArthur, and Scott Pettigrew.