The Maritimes are bracing for what could become the fifth major storm of the season, with clouds expected to dump about 20 centimetres of snow on the region.
Environment Canada has issued weather warnings for most of Nova Scotia, parts of New Brunswick and all of Prince Edward Island.
Michel Losier, a spokesperson for New Brunswick Power, said crews spent Thursday preparing to respond to any electricity outages.
"The system is designed for weather conditions such as this," he told CTV Atlantic.
"There's no system that's completely foolproof, but we do a lot of maintenance on a routine basis and we have a robust transmission and distribution system that we're very proud of. That said, we are ready to respond in case of the unforeseen."
Snow began falling on the Maritimes early Thursday afternoon.
Inland Nova Scotia is expected to receive about 15 centimetres of snow and ice pellets. Northern areas could be hit with up to 30 centimetres, with reduced visibility and blowing snow.
"In addition there is a risk of freezing rain throughout southern areas of mainland Nova Scotia," said Environment Canada.
In P.E.I., nearly 15 centimetres of snow is expected to fall. Environment Canada is also warning the public to watch out for blowing snow, which could reduce visibility.
The forecast for southeastern New Brunswick also calls for 15 to 25 centimetres of snow starting Thursday morning.
By Friday, snowfall amounts of 15 to 25 centimetres are expected to fall in parts of Newfoundland and Labrador.
The snow is expected to change to flurries Friday evening, says the weather agency.
Last week, the region was hit with the fourth major storm of the season, as a weather system pummeled the provinces with heavy snowfall and high winds. Thousands of people were left without power.
