Widespread damage after storm pounds Nova Scotia and Newfoundland

Government of Newfoundland and Labrador/Facebook

It was a stormy night on the west and south coast of Newfoundland as a powerful storm pounds the region.

Strong winds and heavy rain lashed the area overnight prompting the provincial government to activate the provincial emergency operations centre.

As of this morning, there are several weather alerts still in effect across the province.

The Trans-Canada Highway is closed from North Branch to Tompkins due to a washout.

Belanger Memorial School in Doyles is closed for the morning with a further announcement at 10:30 a.m. Grandy's River Collegiate Burnt Islands and LeGallais Memorial Isle aux Morts are also closed for the morning.

Marine Atlantic has cancelled all crossings for today and tomorrow and advises that crossings scheduled for Thursday could be impacted.

Damage at Dominion in Corner Brook, NL. Submitted photo.

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On the other side of the Cabot Strait, things aren't any better.

Rainfall warnings are in effect for northern sections of Nova Scotia including Cape Breton Island. An additional 5 to 10 mm except 20 mm over parts of eastern Cape Breton Island is expected today.

Overnight those in Victoria Counties were advised to avoid travel. A state of emergency was declared in Victoria County.

There were widespread reports of flooding and road washouts. Parks Canada closed the Cabot Trail from Ingonish to Neils Harbour.