Rainfall warning delays school openings in southern Newfoundland

Schools along Newfoundland's southern coast have delayed openings for Thursday, as Environment Canada has issued rainfall warnings for the region.

Rain is expected to be heavy at times in the Burin, Connaigre, Burgeo and Port aux Basques regions, as well as on the souther Avalon Peninsula.

Snow and ice pellets will change to rain through Thursday morning, Environment Canada says.

Between 25 and 35 millimetres of rainfall are expected through the day, with the rainfall set to taper off Thursday evening or early Friday morning.

The English School District of Newfoundland and Labrador has a number of schools in the region set for a delayed opening through the eastern and central regions.

A second low pressure system will bring more rain to most of southeastern Newfoundland late Friday afternoon, Environment Canada warns.

Wreckhouse wind warnings

Meanwhile, Environment Canada has also issued a Wreckhouse wind warning in Port aux Basques and the surrounding area.

Along with the expected rainfall in the area, high winds are expected Thursday.

The Department of Transportation and Works has warned tractor trailers to stay off the Trans-Canada Highway in the Wreckhouse area.

Winds are reportedly gusting to 95 km/h.

All other traffic in the area is also being urged to used caution.

Four provincial government ferries on Newfoundland's south coast are tied up.