HALIFAX -- A blustery winter storm swept through Atlantic Canada on Tuesday, battering the region with high winds, blowing snow and rough pounding surf in coastal areas.

The sloppy blast shuttered schools, delayed flights and made for treacherous driving conditions on some roads across the region, dumping as much as 20 centimetres of snow in southeastern New Brunswick and P.E.I.

Environment Canada meteorologist Ian Hubbard said the slow-moving low-pressure system was expected to intensify over Cape Breton before unleashing snow, freezing drizzle and gusty winds over Newfoundland.

"It wasn't one of the more intense (storms) we've had already this fall but in terms of its impact ... 20 centimetres of snow is certainly a significant amount," he said.

"It's having its impact across the Maritime provinces and will continue to do so overnight and in parts of Newfoundland and Labrador."

Hubbard said the Maritimes will see scattered flurries before clearing into Wednesday and Thursday.

Another system will then bring warmer temperatures and rain to the region this weekend -- bad news for those dreaming of a white Christmas.

"It looks like the snow may not have the chance to survive the weekend in the Maritimes," he said, adding that temperatures could be as high as the "low double digits" on Saturday.

Meanwhile, in addition to school closures, some businesses in P.E.I. were also closed for the day or delayed their openings.

Halifax Transit operated throughout the day, though several routes were on a snow plan due to slippery road conditions.

A series of accidents were reported in the Halifax area, and police advised motorists to slow down.

Many flights were delayed at Halifax Stanfield International Airport, but there were few cancellations.

Citing rough weather in the Cabot Strait, Marine Atlantic delayed evening ferry crossings between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.

Charlottetown, which saw 20 centimetres of snow, said it would enforce overnight parking restrictions to make room for snowplows.

Halifax Regional Municipality, which saw between eight and 10 centimetres of snow, also said it would enforce the city's overnight winter parking ban for the first time this season -- between 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. to allow crews to properly clear the streets.

The municipality said vehicles left on the street may be ticketed and towed.