‘It’s not safe to travel:’ Cape Breton getting hit hard by Fiona

A local state of emergency was declared in Cape Breton City early Saturday morning as a powerful storm continued to hit the island, causing widespread power outages, road closures and structural damage.

After Tropical Storm Fiona reached Nova Scotia in the early hours, and is expected to pass through Cape Breton throughout the morning before reaching the Quebec Lower North Shore and Southeast Labrador late in the evening.

CBRM said the state of emergency means that people should shelter in place.

“If shelter fails, call 911 to evacuate,” the notice for residents read.

The wind has caused severe damage to several homes, forcing families to flee.

“We’ve had a number of structural failures,” said Christina Lamey, spokeswoman for the region. She confirmed no one was injured.

She said it was not clear how many homes were damaged, but there were reports of collapsed walls and a missing roof.

“The main message from there is that people stay at home,” Lamey said.

“First responders are really stressed out. We want people to stay out of the way. Most of the roads have hazards, with power lines and trees also downed.”

The Canadian Red Cross has an active shelter at Center 200. More amenity centers around the city will be announced, but will only open when travel is declared safe by officials. whole.

“Currently it is not safe to travel. Power lines and downed trees are a significant hazard. Please continue to be sheltered,” the city said.

The Canso Road, the island’s only entrance and exit, remained open but was closed to overhead vehicles just before 8 a.m.

– with a file from the Canadian Press