General Election, 20 September 2021

Hurricane Larry, September 2021 

Hurricane Larry made landfall in eastern Newfoundland as a Category 1 storm on the evening of 10 September 2021, bringing heavy winds and torrential rains until the morning of 11 September. Larry had sustained winds of 120 km/h and left St. John’s and the surrounding area, about 60 000 households, without power. Several trees were uprooted and the roof of a school collapsed. The public was advised to remain off the roads as power lines and debris presented risks to traffic (CBC News, 2021; Sosnowski, A., 2021).  

Impacts on the electoral process 

The hurricane was closely watched by Elections Canada, with contingency plans set in place for the areas at risk. Extra computer equipment was provided in case of damage to existing appliances, and installment of landline phones for communication was ensured by collaborating with stakeholders (Elections Canada, 2022).  

Changes in procedures 

Several advance polls in Newfoundland had to shut down early on 10 September due to the hurricane, while some in St. John’s East and St. John’s South-Mount Pearl had to stay closed because of power outages on 11 September but were able to reopen on 12 September (Elections Canada, 2022; Globalnews.ca, 2021).  

Voter turnout 

Voter turnout was 62.25%, presenting a decrease compared to the 2019 parliamentary election which had a turnout of 67.65% (International IDEA, n.d.). Turnout at the advance polls in Avalon and St. John's South– Mount Pearl was higher than in the previous general election (Elections Canada, 2022).