Larry To Make Landfall Late Friday on the Avalon Peninsula as a Category 1 Hurricane

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Hurricane Larry is expected to finally make landfall this evening over the western Avalon Peninsula as a Category 1 storm. Hurricane warnings are in effect for the entire Avalon Peninsula while Tropical Storm warnings are in effect from the Bonavista Peninsula, through Clarenville and south to Connaigre and the Burin Peninsula. The greatest threats from this storm are high winds, large waves, coastal flooding, and periods of heavy rainfall with up to 50mm falling.

Winds will begin to increase as Larry approaches with peak winds expected in the overnight hours. The strongest wind gusts will be along the coastal areas of the Avalon, especially in Cape Race and along the southern shore. Gusts of up to 150km/h are possible there and the winds will decrease further north and inland, with gusts of up to 130km/h possible for the St John’s Metro area and Conception Bay South through to Carbonear. Wind gusts of 100-110km/h will occur from Bonavista and south through the Burin Peninsula and winds will decrease moving westward. Any loose objects should be secured or brought inside ahead of the storm. By Saturday afternoon, winds should begin to diminish as Larry tracks offshore to the north and weakens to post-tropical storm in the cooler waters.

Along with the winds, waves and storm surge are a major threat from this storm, especially south facing shores from McCallum to Cape Race as well as in Placentia Bay. High tide this evening in conjunction with the storm surge will result in significantly higher water levels. Waves heights of 10-14 metres will also be present and could cause damage along the coast and flooding in coastal communities.

It is likely that some communities may lose power due to this storm and it is not too late to put together an emergency kit. Some important things to have on hand include:

  • Water

  • Non-perishable foods

  • First Aid kit

  • Battery powered flashlight and extra batteries

  • Candles and matches/lighter

  • Prescription medications and equipment

  • Pet food and supplies

  • Extra gas for generators

Please remember that if you use a generator, DO NOT operate inside your home, garage, or shed.

Stay safe and we will be posting updates this evening as the storm approaches.