Winter Storm Warning is now in effect for PEI on Saturday

Prince Edward Islanders can expect nearly 25 cm of snow and wind gusts of up to 80 km/h this weekend, Environment Canada says.

The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning for all three PEI counties late Friday morning. Warnings are issued when several types of severe winter weather are expected to occur together.

Snow is expected to begin near midnight tonight and continue into Saturday afternoon.

CBC meteorologist Jay Scotland said snowfall of up to 12 inches is possible, especially in central and eastern PEI

“In addition to snow-covered roads, poor visibility is also an issue for Saturday thanks to a strong northerly wind … which could result in blowing and drifting snow,” Scotland said.

“The steady snow should taper off for most areas Saturday night into early Sunday, but a cold and brisk west-northwesterly wind could result in sea-effect snow bands downwind of the water, which could result in further accumulation and poor visibility under persistent bands. ”

Similar storms in the past have caused hazardous driving conditions, cancellations of scheduled activities, disruptions to public services, widespread power outages, delays or cancellations of ferry services and closures on the Federal Bridge.