Some children in P.E.I. will need to delay their Halloween celebrations by a day due to an anticipated severe weather event. Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement cautioning of heavy rain and strong winds expected to impact the Island on Friday. Charlottetown, Cornwall, and Stratford have collectively decided to postpone trick-or-treating to Saturday in light of the inclement weather forecast to prioritize the safety of young trick-or-treaters.
Summerside has also rescheduled its trick-or-treating activities to Saturday in consideration of the weather conditions. Despite the shift in schedule, all four municipalities have confirmed that the 8 p.m. curfew will remain in effect on Saturday as a precautionary measure.
Corey Frizzell, a town councillor and chair of municipal and emergency services for Cornwall, emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety by opting to delay Halloween festivities. Residents like Danielle Jesso expressed understanding and flexibility regarding the decision, emphasizing that the well-being of children is paramount.
With improved weather conditions anticipated for Saturday, Jesso plans to take her infant daughter, Chloe, for her first trick-or-treating experience, dressed as Sully from “Monsters, Inc.” Similarly, Warren Grove has also rescheduled trick-or-treating to Saturday, aligning with the consensus that the decision is in the best interest of children’s enjoyment and safety.
Despite some internal debate among councillors, the consensus remains that ensuring a positive and safe experience for children is the primary concern. Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations have already moved their trick-or-treating activities to Thursday evening to avoid the anticipated severe weather on Friday.
According to Environment Canada, the heaviest rainfall is expected on Friday afternoon, accompanied by strong winds with gusts up to 70 kilometers per hour and potential rainfall amounts of 30 to 40 millimeters. CBC meteorologist Jay Scotland forecasts that while Friday evening may still be blustery with scattered showers, conditions are expected to improve for Saturday’s trick-or-treating, with mild temperatures in the low to mid-teens.
The weather forecast for Saturday suggests cooler temperatures and a scattered shower chance, with a strong westerly wind. The weather conditions on Friday are influenced by Hurricane Melissa, which recently affected Cuba and Jamaica as a Category 3 hurricane.
Environment Canada advises Islanders to prepare for the weather by clearing storm drains and securing outdoor items. Some smaller communities in P.E.I. have opted to proceed with trick-or-treating on Friday, while others have followed the lead of larger municipalities in rescheduling to Saturday. Residents are encouraged to check with their local municipal council for confirmation on the Halloween plans in their community.