Weekend storm set to drench parts of Atlantic Canada: 5 things to remember ahead of the rain

Saturday, March 21, 2015, 11:06 AM - After seemingly endless rounds of winter storms, the first full day of Spring is bringing more active weather to the Atlantic provinces. 

But unlike recent storms that brought record-breaking snow to the region, the biggest threat posed by the warmer temperatures of the latest system is heavy rain and flooding.

An overnight parking ban is in effect for the city of Halifax and as crews work to clear streets and sidewalks of snow, as nearly 100 cm of snow sits on the ground after recent storms.

Here are 5 things to help you prepare before the rain begins on Saturday.

1. Remove heavy snow from rooftops

The snow left behind from previous storms risks being weighed down with water once the rain starts to fall.

With nowhere to go, water has the potential to seep into homes and buildings, causing extensive damage. Even worse is the risk of roofs collapsing under the weight of water-logged snow piles.

Professional snow removal crews have been overwhelmed by the recent amount of heavy snow, especially in areas of Nova Scotia according to a CBC report.

If you choose to shovel snow by yourself, please remember to be extremely careful.

2. Clean out your eavestroughs

Eavestroughs clogged with snow, ice and other debris prevent melting snow and rain from draining off and away from rooftops.

Be sure to clean out eavestroughs and downspouts to ensure that water runs away from your home, and doesn't pool near the foundation, doors or windows.

3. Try to remove snow from catch basins and fire hydrants

The City of Halifax released a statement that municipal crews would be out in full force to clear catch basins in at least 100 flood-prone areas.

However, crews will be unable to get to all catch basins by the time the rain begins Saturday afternoon.

Residents are encouraged to pitch in by making sure that drains and fire hydrants are clear of snow and ice in front of their homes and property. 

Again, this should only be attempted if it can be done safely.

4. Remove snow drifts from basement windows

During periods of heavy rain, flooding is most likely in low-lying areas, specifically basements.

Clearing piles of snow away from basement windows will help prevent the risk of water seeping into your home through the lowest entry points.

5. Prepare for possible power outages

Active weather can often present the risk of temporary power failure. As this latest system moves through, falling snow and the weight of rain and snow combined has the potential to damage power lines.

Ensure you have sufficient supplies on hand should an outage occur, including batteries, flashlights, and bottled water.

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