Tropical Storm Leslie lashes Newfoundland

A hurricane watch and tropical storm warning were in effect for southern Newfoundland as Tropical Storm Leslie came ashore, Canadian weather officials said. The storm had gusts surpassing the hurricane threshold of 74 mph when it hit the southern Burin Peninsula Tuesday morning, Environment Canada reported. Heavy rainfall warnings were also posted as the storm advanced from the southeast at about 40 mph, the agency said. As much as 6 inches of rain was forecast in places. The (St. John's) Telegram reported a tractor trailer had been blown over on the Trans-Canada Highway and there were numerous reports of power outages throughout the south. There also were reports of downed trees and siding being ripped from houses. The provincial capital city deployed 200 municipal workers Monday night to prepare for the storm by securing loose items and ensuring sewer openings were clear, the newspaper said. Schools were ordered closed Monday night and most ferry services were canceled, the Telegram said. Dozens of flights were canceled in St. John's and smaller regional airports.