P.E.I. Schools Close Monday Amid Winter Storm in the Maritimes

On Monday, a significant winter storm is impacting Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.), causing most public schools to close. The severe weather brings heavy snowfall and strong winds across the region, prompting officials to cancel classes for students.

P.E.I. School Closures Due to Winter Storm

The Public Schools Branch announced that all schools, except the Westisle Family of Schools, have suspended operations. The Westisle Family will open, but with a one-hour delay. Similarly, École Pierre-Chaisson in Tignish from the French-language school board will also open late, while all other schools under la Commission Scolaire de Langue Française are closed.

Impact on Health Services

The severe weather has also affected several health services across the island. Islanders are advised to check the Health P.E.I. website for updates regarding cancellations and delayed openings.

Weather Warnings in Effect

• A yellow winter storm warning is active for eastern P.E.I.
• A special weather statement is issued for central P.E.I.

According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, these advisories highlight the expected impacts of the storm.

Delays in Government and Educational Facilities

Provincial civil service offices across all three counties will open late at 9:30 a.m. Additional announcements are expected by 8:30 a.m. Various educational institutions are also adjusting their schedules:

• All UPEI locations will delay opening until noon, with updates at 10 a.m.
• Holland College will follow a similar noon opening, providing further information by 10:30 a.m.
• Island Montessori Academy in Stratford and Cornwall will remain closed all day.
• Charlottetown City Hall will open late until 9:30 a.m., with an announcement by 8:30 a.m.
• Simmons Sports Centre and Cody Banks Arena will delay their openings until 10 a.m., with a 9 a.m. update.

Cancellations of Transportation and Services

All Northumberland ferry crossings between Caribou, Nova Scotia, and Wood Islands, P.E.I., are canceled for the day. T3 Transit services have also adjusted their schedules with multiple cancellations:

• E1 – Early morning service from Souris/St. Peter’s to Charlottetown
• E4 – Charlottetown to Montague
• E2 – Early morning service from Montague/Georgetown to Charlottetown

Riders should expect delays on other routes as well.

Forecast for Kings County

According to CBC meteorologist Tina Simpkin, Kings County is predicted to experience the heaviest impact from the storm. An additional 15 centimeters of snow may accumulate, with winds gusting between 70 to 90 kilometers per hour. The weather should start improving in Prince and Queens counties, though light snowfall may still occur.

The situation is continuously evolving, and residents are encouraged to remain informed about updates and safety measures during this winter storm.