Hurricane Earl To Hit Canada: Atlantic Provinces, Maritimes

It is still early to speak of details at this time since Earl is
2 to 3 days away from Atlantic Canada landfall. Official watches and
warnings will likely be necessary beginning late Thursday for Nova
Scotia.

The public should certainly pay close attention regarding weekend
plans that may be sensitive to high wind and heavy rain conditions.
It is emphasized that updated forecasts should be consulted for the
latest forecast decisions and rationale.

At Sydney, the cruise ship cancellations will be expensive for the port
and the local business community. Bernadette MacNeil, the manager of
cruise marketing and development with the Sydney Ports Corporation,
said the loss of revenue will be about $250,000.

"We have contacted our ERT leaders, confirmed which volunteers are
available to us through the long weekend, checked equipment, ensured
vehicles are fuelled and trailers are stocked, and touched base with
government authorities who likewise are reviewing contingency plans,"
said Bill Lawlor, Red Cross director of disaster management for
Atlantic Canada.