20-30+ cm of snow: Christmas Day winter storm threatens parts of Newfoundland

Parts of the East Coast will get a guaranteed white Christmas this year with a little help from Mother Nature this week.

A Christmas Day snowstorm is forecast for eastern Newfoundland, with the potential for near-blizzard conditions. A strengthening low will track just to the east of the region, bringing heavy snow in the early hours on Christmas Day. Snowfall totals of 20-30+ cm are expected.

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Heavy snow and strong winds will continue through the day across eastern Newfoundland with near-blizzard conditions and very difficult travel. Make sure to stay updated on the latest alerts.

That won't be the end of the winter blast, either, as a second storm is possible on Boxing Day, threatening similar conditions and travel issues.

Christmas Day winter storm threatens travel in Newfoundland

Heavy snow will spread across eastern Newfoundland on early-morning Thursday, including the Avalon Peninsula. Snow rates will intensify through the morning hours, along with wind gusts.

Snowfall rates of 2-4+ cm an hour are forecast for the Avalon through the morning.

Wind gusts 70-90+ km/h are expected across the Avalon and the eastern half of the island, with the strongest gusts reserved for exposed, coastal communities.

-While the swath of the heaviest snow has some uncertainty in its location and amount, snowfall totals could range between 20-30+ cm.

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Hazardous travel can be expected both Christmas Day due to slick roads and whiteout conditions. As well, some power outages are also possible with the strong winds.

Followup storm possible on Boxing Day

There is the potential for another system to track hot on the heels of the first system for Boxing Day, taking a similar track and spreading another healthy swath of snow for the Avalon.

The system will need to be closely monitored, as the track is not set in stone and could stay off the coast. Check back as we continue to monitor the threat for a second system and round of snow.

Similar to Christmas Day, a potential for slick roads and whiteout conditions could make for treacherous travel at times. As well, some power outages are also possible with the strong winds.

Stay tuned to The Weather Network for the latest Newfoundland forecast updates.