P.E.I.’s first major snowfall closes all public schools, delays services, and disrupts ferry crossings as conditions start to improve by late morning.
P.E.I. Closes Schools as First Major Snowfall Slows Travel
Storm Disrupts Morning Routine Across the Island
Prince Edward Island’s first significant snowfall of the season forced all public schools to close Wednesday as deteriorating road conditions made early-morning travel difficult. Snow moved across the Island before sunrise, prompting officials to suspend classes and caution residents about reduced visibility and slippery surfaces.
Weather Alerts Lifted as Snow Begins to Ease
A snowfall warning for Kings County and special weather statements for Queens and Prince counties were in effect early in the day but were lifted by late morning as the system weakened. Although the heaviest snow tapered off, forecasters said road conditions would take time to improve after several hours of steady accumulation.
Health Services Delay Opening Due to Conditions
Several Health P.E.I. services delayed opening on Wednesday to ensure staff and patients could travel safely. Officials urged Islanders to check the Health P.E.I. website for updated schedules as crews continued clearing priority roads.
Post-Secondary Campuses Reopen in Stages
The University of Prince Edward Island announced a noon opening for all locations, while Holland College campuses resumed operations at 10:30 a.m. The staggered return allowed institutions to wait out the worst of the snowfall and ease pressure on morning traffic.
Government and Federal Offices Adjust Schedules
Provincial civil service offices in West Prince, eastern Prince County, Queens County and Charlottetown reopened as planned, while offices in Kings County delayed opening until noon. Service Canada centres in Summerside and Charlottetown opened for the day, with Montague and Souris offices scheduled to open at midday.
Child-Care Centres and Independent Schools Respond
Island Montessori Academy, with locations in Stratford and Cornwall, closed for the day as conditions worsened early Wednesday. The closure came alongside the province-wide shutdown of public schools as officials prioritized safety during the morning commute.
Ferry Crossings Cancelled as Marine Conditions Worsen
All Northumberland ferries between Caribou, N.S., and Wood Islands, P.E.I., were cancelled for Wednesday due to weather-related safety concerns. Operators cited reduced visibility and deteriorating marine conditions as key factors in the decision.
Cleanup Continues as Islanders Resume Routine
With snowfall easing by late morning, road crews continued clearing major routes and intersections across the Island. Authorities advised residents to allow extra time on the roads and remain cautious as plows work to widen lanes and remove lingering snow.
