Winter weather woes hit Prince Edward Island hard, causing widespread disruptions across the province on Monday. From school closures to delayed openings, the impact of the snowfall was felt far and wide. But let's break down exactly what happened and how Islanders were affected.
Early Monday morning, Environment Canada issued a yellow snowfall warning for Kings and Queens counties. This warning was lifted shortly after 10 a.m. However, the damage was already done, leading to significant delays and closures.
Here's a quick rundown of the major disruptions:
- Schools: Both the Public Schools Branch and the French-language school board were closed for the entire day. Island Montessori Academy campuses in Stratford and Cornwall also remained shut.
- Universities: UPEI delayed its opening until 12 p.m. at both the Charlottetown and St. Peter's Bay campuses.
- Colleges: Holland College's West Prince and Summerside locations opened later at 10:30 a.m., while all other locations stayed closed. Study Abroad Canada College delayed its opening until 12 p.m.
- Government Offices: Provincial civil service offices in Queens, Charlottetown, and Kings County delayed their opening until 12:30 p.m., while those in the East Prince area opened at 9:30 a.m.
- Healthcare: Health PEI provided updates on delays and closures on its website, advising people to confirm appointments or notify staff if they couldn't make it.
- Other Services: Cavendish Farms Wellness Centre was closed for the day, Charlottetown Meals on Wheels canceled meal deliveries, and the Simmons Sports Centre and Cody Banks Arena delayed their openings until 9 a.m.
The AVC Veterinary Teaching Hospital remained open for emergencies and opened for regularly scheduled appointments at 12 p.m.
This situation highlights the importance of staying informed during inclement weather. Checking official sources for updates, like the provincial health agency's website, is crucial for planning your day and ensuring your safety.
What do you think? Did the weather impact your Monday? Were you affected by any of these closures or delays? Share your experiences in the comments below!
About the Author: Gwyneth Egan is a CBC Prince Edward Island reporter. She holds a master's degree in journalism from Carleton University.
