The update says the approach of a trough from the west will cause Earl to pick up speed. The storm is currently moving Northwest at 14 knots (26 km/hr.)
Although it is still too early to determine potential impacts, residents are being warned to reconsider weekend plans that may be sensitive to high wind and heavy rain conditions.
Updated forecasts should be consulted.
At 9 a.m. Wednesday Hurricane Earl was located about 600 nautical miles or 1100 km Southwest of Bermuda. Maximum sustained winds are estimated at 110 knots (204 km/h). Central pressure was at 941 MB. There is a wide range of track scenarios over the weekend... from a potential landfall as far west as Maine and as far east as Southwest Newfoundland.
Probabilistic computer models generally show about a 75 per cent chance of at least gale-force winds (60 to 70 km/h) over land in Nova Scotia. Environment Canada statistical guidance indicates about an 85 per cent chance of Earl entering Canadian forecast waters as a hurricane and 40 to 50 per cent chance of a land falling hurricane in Nova Scotia.
Ocean swell from Earl will reach Nova Scotia on Thursday. The next Environment Canada statement will be issued at 9 p.m.
Visit this site to track Hurricane Earl.
Preparing for a Hurricane
As officials continue to track the path of Hurricane Earl, the Emergency Management Office is advising the public to take necessary steps to protect themselves and their families in the event of an emergency.
Hurricanes can be very unpredictable. EMO is monitoring the hurricane closely to ensure the most current information is available to the public.
People are also cautioned about increasing surf activity at a number of beaches across the province. It is always best to visit supervised beaches, stay within your depth, keep children within arm's reach and swim with a partner. If conditions become more severe, storm surge and undertow can be extremely dangerous. People should refrain from going to coastal areas, including beaches, to watch a severe storm.
- Read more special articles :
- - Earl aftermath
- - Wharf Rat Rally ahead this year, despite Earl
- - Hurricane Earl brushes Shelburne County
- - Earl grazes Queens
Businesses should also begin reviewing their business continuity plans.
Nova Scotians are encouraged to have some basic supplies prepared in the event of an emergency, which may include being without power or running water.
Some ways to prepare for a weather-related emergency are:
-- Maintain an emergency kit, including food, water, clothing, blankets, a flashlight, battery or crank-powered radio, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, extra prescription medications and copies of important papers. People should be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.
-- Have cash on hand in case of a prolonged power outage.
-- Prepare freezer packs by placing water-filled soda or plastic milk containers in deep freezers. These can be used to help keep the freezer and/or refrigerator cold in a power outage.
-- Choose a family shelter area away from windows. A basement, storm cellar or closet beneath the stairs can provide a good shelter in a severe storm.
-- Choose a meeting place for family members and set up some form of communication to notify each other of whereabouts and safety.
-- Make arrangements to help a senior or other people in the neighbourhood that may need help.
-- Secure objects that could be torn loose or blown around. Protect homes as much as possible from heavy rains and floods.
Visit the EMO website for more information on emergency preparedness.
