1940 Season
The season was the lightest year on record (1900-1940) on the Banks; although shipping experienced the usual amount of field ice in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and along the Nova Scotian shelf. (IIP p1)
Dec 9 Last departure of the season from Quebec. (WBB)
Dec 13 Last eastbound steamer through the Strait of Belle Isle. (WBB)
Jan 2 The produce laden schooner “Mary & June” has sailed from this port (Georgetown). Also the schooner “Ollie & Mae”. (Pat 2 Jan p7 c8)
Jan 3 First ice in Humber Arm- The dropping of the temperature last Tue. night caused a this coating of ice to form over the inner part of the Humber Arm for the first time this season… on New Years day the ice extended from Humbermouth to Curling. People were able to cross on foot from Crow Head the frost of this week but between Curling and Summerside the ice was quite thin and shipping had little difficulty in negotiating through it. (TWS, pg. 1, Col. 1)
Jan 3 Heavy drift ice in Charlottetown Harbour. (Pat 3 Jan p5 c4)
Jan 4 SS “Surf” loaded at Lower Montague. The Montague River was partly frozen over. (Pat 4 Jan p3 c5)
Jan 4 SS “Colony Trader” arrived Georgetown on New Year’s Day, proceeded to Souris on Thursday (Jan. 4th). (Pat 6 Jan p9 c3)
Jan 9 Georgetown – Montague ferry still making regular trips. (Pat 9 Jan p3 c6)
Jan 10 There was skating on the ice off Sprucy Point yesterday. (TWS, pg. 2, Col. 4)
Jan 17 Many young people took advantage of the good skating on the Arm before the ice was cut up by the steamers. Herman Pennell has had his iceboat on the ice of Humber Arm the past week, and there has been very good sailing thought the wind has been very light. (TWS, pg. 2, Col. 3)
Jan 19 Information has been received from the Commander, Boston Division, U.S. Coast Guard, that due to severe ice conditions existing along the New England coast mariners should exercise extreme caution in navigating and not place too much dependence upon floating aids to navigation. These aids are subject to temporary removal, dislocation, or damage from drifting ice. (HB 2629 Jan 24)
Jan 21 U.S. Coast Guard patrol boat “McLane”: The commanding officer reports that solid packed ice exists from Sharps Island to the head of the Chesapeake Bay. The “McLane” was unable to proceed farther in the direction of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal than Belvidere Shoal [today], the ice being heavy and packed solid there. One vessel is frozen in off Tolchester Beach. (HB 2629 Jan 24)
Jan 23 Ferry “Charlottetown” (ice breaking ferry) docked at Borden; after an almost 4 hour battle with heavy drift ice in Northumberland Strait between Borden and Cape Tormentine. (Pat 23 Jan p8 c3)
Jan 23 The Branch Hydrographic Office, Philadelphia, Pa., under date of [today], furnished the following information pertaining to ice conditions in the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal: “The Pilots’ Association reported that a United Fruit ship came through the canal from Baltimore, arriving at 0500 today, and found the ice very bad all the way from Baltimore to the canal. The pilot who took the ship through reported that the worst ice conditions that have existed for years were encountered in the Elk River. He stated that his ship was completely stopped at times but due to her power and hull design was able to reach the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal which was comparatively free of ice. He further reported that a Philadelphia and Norfolk fast freighter was stopped by the Elk River ice and had to have the assistance of the ice breaker to get free. He stated that it is dangerous to attempt the canal passage. The Delaware River is free of floe ice, most of the ice being loose and moving in and out with the tides.” (HB 2630 Jan 31)
Jan 24 Even heavier ice conditions were experienced by the “Charlottetown” crossing Northumberland Strait. (Pat 24 Jan p8 c3)
Jan 24 Several parties whilst hauling ashore herring last week broke through the ice and lost their catches. (TWS, pg. 2, Col. 4)
Jan 25 The Branch Hydrographic Office, Baltimore, Md., advised that ice conditions in the Upper Chesapeake Bay, as of [today], were as follows: Baltimore Harbor is practically clear of ice. Much floating ice in the bay has shifted to the Eastern Shore due to prevailing southwest winds and offers no interference to large vessels. Small vessels are advised not to attempt passage through ice. Traffic is being maintained through the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. (HB 2630 Jan 31)
Jan 28 U.S. Coast Guard patrol boat “Faunce”: reports [today] that pack ice about 2 feet in thickness was encountered outside Nantucket Harbor jetties. It is believed impossible that any craft can enter Nantucket Harbor under present conditions. These same conditions prevail within the limits of visibility. (HB 2630 Jan 31 and repeated in HB 2631 Feb 7)
Jan 28 The Branch Hydrographic Office, Baltimore, Md., advises that ice conditions on [today], were as follows: There is heavy ice, 6 inches thick, in lower Chesapeake Bay, from Wolf Trap up. Vessels with sufficient power are able to get through. The Baltimore channels and harbor are practically clear of ice. An ice breaker is working in the Upper Bay to Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. It is very difficult for vessels to get through there. (HB 2630 Jan 31 and repeated in HB 2631 Feb 7)
Jan 29 The following information pertaining to ice conditions was received from U.S. Coast Guard headquarters under date of [today]: Mariners are cautioned that owing to severe ice conditions in the Chesapeake Bay and tributaries it has been necessary to remove keepers from and temporarily discontinue several lights. Lighted buoys have been replaced with unlighted buoys. Drifting ice may render floating aids inoperative or drag them from their stations. (HB 2630 Jan 31 and repeated in HB 2631 Feb 7)
Jan 29 The Branch Hydrographic Office, Philadelphia, Pa., advised under date of [today], that ice conditions in the Delaware River were as follows: Ships coming up the Delaware River will encounter large floes of unbroken ice. In the bay this ice is attached to the shore but may move out in the channel under pressure of wind and tide. Local pilots report that this ice is heavy and will slow a 16-knot ship down to 9 knots. A further drop in temperature will make conditions worse. The Chesapeake and Delaware Canal is considered unsafe for navigation due to heavy ice in the Upper Chesapeake Bay and at the entrance to the canal. (HB 2631 Feb 7)
Jan 31 The following information pertaining to ice conditions along the New England coast was received from the U.S. Coast Guard, Boston, Mass.: Pack and floe ice, 4 to 12 inches thick, frozen solid and hummocked, exists from Wilkes Ledge to Wings Neck, Buzzards Bay, and there is floating ice in the Cape Cod Canal. Floe ice extends in Nantucket Sound from Nantucket to the mainland and westward to East Chop Light. The ice in the sound has been broken up by traffic. (HB 2631 Feb 7)
Feb 1 The following information pertaining to ice conditions in the Chesapeake Bay was received from the Branch Hydrographic Office, Baltimore, Md.: The larger vessels are able to navigate the lower Chesapeake Bay with but little delay. There is heavy broken ice in the fairways, with thick solid ice extending to each shore, between Bloody Point Bar Light and Sandy Point. There is broken ice in the Baltimore channels, with thin ice in the harbor. Considerable ice exists from Pooles Island to the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal entrance. The larger vessels are able to get through with some difficulty. All temporary navigational aids are considered to be in place but they should not be depended on entirely. (HB 2631 Feb 7)
Feb 1 USS “Sagamore”: The commanding officer reports that heavy ice 4 to 8 inches thick was encountered while clearing the channel between Point Lookout and Piney Point, Potomac River. (HB 2631 Feb 7)
Feb 2 The following information pertaining to ice conditions along the New England coast was received from the U.S. Coast Guard, Boston, Mass.: There is floe and pack ice from 4 to 14 inches thick in Buzzards Bay from Wilkes Ledge to Wings Neck. Vessels may proceed with less difficulty by favoring the northern shore. Cleveland Ledge Channel is practically impassable. The east end of Cape Cod Canal is clear but there is much pancake ice in the west end. (HB 2631 Feb 7)
Feb 3 The following ice information has been received from Cape Race Radio Station (VCE) through the Department of Transport, Canada: No ice reported. (HB 2631 Feb 7)
Feb 3 The following information pertaining to ice conditions in the Chesapeake Bay was received from the Branch Hydrographic Office, Baltimore, Md.: Northwest winds are driving considerable ice from upper Chesapeake Bay into Baltimore Channels and down to Bloody Point. All vessels encountering considerable interference and delay. In passage through canal the lighter vessels advised to go through on flood tide only. Heavy ice in upper bay. Passage may be had with considerable difficulty but not advised especially for tows. C & D Canal open. All buoys covered with ice and not to be relied on. No change anticipated in conditions for tomorrow. (HB 2631 Feb 7)
Feb 3 The following information pertaining to ice conditions in the Chesapeake Bay was received from the Branch Hydrographic Office, Baltimore, Md.: Low-powered and light-draft vessels are advised not to attempt passage through the ice between Sandy Point and Bloody Point, Chesapeake Bay. (HB 2631 Feb 7)
Feb 4 The following ice information has been received from Cape Race Radio Station (VCE) through the Department of Transport, Canada: No ice reported. (HB 2632 Feb 14)
Feb 6 The U.S. Coast Guard, Boston, Mass., advises that tightly packed ice exists in Buzzards Bay at some stages of the tide; heavy ice 6 to 14 inches thick exists within a radius of 5 miles of Great Point Light; and that Nantucket Sound is otherwise free of ice. (HB 2632 Feb 14)
Feb 6 The U.S. Coast Guard, Boston, Mass., advises that the heavy unbroken shore ice from Coskata Beach, Nantucket Sound, moved to the northward before a southeast wind and was located between Handkerchief Shoal, Great Point, and Halfmoon Shoal, blocking Great Round Shoal Channel. (HB 2632 Feb 14)
Feb 6 The Branch Hydrographic Office, Baltimore, Md., furnished the following information pertaining to ice conditions in Chesapeake Bay: Ice moving down from upper Chesapeake Bay is packing between Baltimore Light and Bloody Point Bar Light, which is expected to cause considerable trouble to lower-powered and light-draft vessels. The conditions in the upper bay are somewhat improved. There is considerable broken and drift ice in the Elk River and at Turkey Point. Small vessels and vessels with tows are advised not to attempt passage. The Chesapeake and Delaware Canal is open due to thawing. (HB 2632 Feb 14)
Feb 7 Ice in the Cabot Strait delayed the crossing on Sun., and as a result the express train on Mon. morning was nine hours late arriving at Curling. This is the first interruption by ice this season. Reports from the outer parts of the Bay on Mon. stated that no water could be seen. Evidently drift ice has at last reached the coast. (TWS, pg. 2, Col. 4)
Feb 7 The following ice information has been received from Cape Race Radio Station (VCE) through the Department of Transport, Canada: No ice reported. (HB 2632 Feb 14)
Feb 7 The U.S. Coast Guard, Boston, Mass., advises that there is considerable drift ice in the Cape Cod Canal and ice packed in Buzzards Bay which is expected to loosen at [the] end of flood tide. The courses between the lightship to Pollock Rip are free of obstructions with only cakes of pan ice blocking the channel. The visibility has been zero since 2300. (HB 2632 Feb 14)
Feb 7 The Branch Hydrographic Office, Baltimore, Md., advises: Considerable field ice remains in bay from Bloody Point to Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, shifting with wind and tide, which does not interfere with large vessels. Small vessels advised to navigate with caution. All navigational aids are believed to be in place. Temporary buoys still replace regular lighted buoys. (HB 2632 Feb 14)
Feb 8 The U.S. Coast Guard, Boston, Mass., advises that the ice in Buzzards Bay is much thinner and loose. The north shore is clear. Ice extends from West Island to the Cape Cod Canal. There is some drift ice in the canal and considerable ice at its west end, but small vessels are going through. (HB 2632 Feb 14)
Feb 9 The U.S. Coast Guard, Boston, Mass., advises that there is loose ice in Buzzards Bay from Buoy No. 7 to the Cape Cod Canal, that traffic is moving freely under present conditions, and that nothing larger than fishing vessels are apt to need assistance. The east end of the canal is reported not passable for small craft. Also that there is no ice in Nantucket Sound. The old heavy ice that was west of Great Point is now well broken up and is now east of Great Round Shoal. (HB 2632 Feb 14)
Feb 11 Cape Race: Southern limit of extensive ice floes 44°41’N 58°59’W. (IIP p2#1)
Feb 11 The U.S. Coast Guard [advises that] the southern limits of extensive ice floes have been reported 60 miles northeast of Sable Island. (HB 2633 Feb 21)
Feb 12 The U.S. Coast Guard [advises that] there are heavy floes of ice 3 miles off Sharps Island and between Poplar Island Shoal Lighted Bell Buoy No. 20A and Thomas Point, and scattered broken ice on the western side of the bay. It is possible for large steamers enroute to Baltimore to pass through the ice off Sharps Island but it is very dangerous for small craft and wooden vessels. (HB 2632 Feb 14)
Feb 12 USS “Kewaydin”: a small floe of broken ice was encountered off Sandy Point, another small floe of broken ice off Tolchester Beach, and small floes of broken honey-combed ice were encountered between Tolchester Beach and Turkey Point. There is no ice in the Chesapeake Bay around the mouth of the Susquehanna River. The steamer “Mormacsul” and a small tug with the barge “Gretchen” were passed heading down the bay from the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. The approaches to the canal are considered open for everything but very small vessels. There is no ice above Arnold Point. (HB 2633 Feb 21)
Feb 13 USS “Kewaydin”: there is a thin coat of soft ice in Tripps Bay, which is apparently drift ice from [the] upper bay, and considered dangerous for small craft. The mouth of the Choptank River is apparently free of ice. (HB 2633 Feb 21)
Feb 14 Ice and storm delayed the Cabot Strait crossing on Sun so much so that the express train from Port aux Basques was about 15 hours late. (TWS, pg. 2, Col. 2)
Feb 19 Cape Race: Southern limit of extensive ice floes 44°13’N 58°35’W. (IIP p2#2)
Feb 19 Cape Race: Large area field ice 18 miles SE Whitehead, NS. (IIP p2#3)
Feb 19 Cape Race: Heavy field ice 45°50’N 59°17’W. (IIP p2#4)
Feb 19 Montreal: Government icebreakers will start next week the month-long job of smashing open the St. Lawrence river channel between Three Rivers and Montreal. The work is scheduled to begin next Monday, a week earlier than last year. The shipping channel lower than the river between Three Rivers and Quebec is clear at present but one icebreaker will stand by to break up any jams which might come as ice along the shores moves downstream. (HH 20/02/1940 p1#2)
Feb 21 Because of the ice interruption in the Cabot Strait service, the express train due here from west early Mon. morning, was delayed at Port aux Basques and did not reach Curling until about 24 hours behind schedule. (TWS, pg. 2, Col. 3)
Feb 27 Cape Race: Field ice extending 15 miles from 44°17’N 62°10’W. (IIP p2#5)
Feb 28 The weather is continuing warm and sunny. Skating up to date has been very poor. (TWS, pg. 5, Col. 5)
Mar 2 Cape Race: Field ice 10 miles wide extending E from 44°12’N 62°20’W. (IIP p2#6)
Mar 3 Camperdown: Heavy field ice extending N from Sable Island. (IIP p2#7)
Mar 3 Camperdown: Slush and pancake ice E coast Nova Scotia. (IIP p2#8)
Mar 3 Camperdown: Ice floes to northward of line from Sable Island to 44°12’N 62°20’W. (IIP p2#9)
Mar 3 The following ice warning was broadcast from Camperdown [VCS], Nova Scotia, Radio Station: Ice floes reported off Sable Island, off Halifax, and in 44°12’N 62°20’W. (HB 2635 Mar 6)
Mar 4 Camperdown: Heavy field ice from 310° to 40° from Sable Island. (IIP p2#10)
Mar 4 Camperdown: Ice floes to northward of line from Sable Island to 44°12’N 62°20’W. (IIP p2#11)
Mar 4 Camperdown: Slush and pancake ice along E coast of Nova Scotia. (IIP p2#12)
Mar 4 Montreal: Icebreakers “ N B McLean” and “Lady Grey” working up the St. Lawrence from Three Rivers, are expected to reach Montreal about March 17 if their present schedule is maintained, officials report. Ice encountered on the river has averaged about 10 inches thinner than last year when the ships reached Montreal near the end of March., officials said. Both ships expected to reach Sorel Wednesday. (HH 05/03/1940 p2#3)
Mar 7 Charlottetown: Heaviest drift ice of the year gave the icebreaker car ferry “Charlottetown” heavy going today on the nine-mile crossing between PEI and the mainland. Tonight the boat was almost completely stuck for two hours not far from the Tormentine pier. Passengers and mails for this province did not reach Borden until almost 8:30 pm. (HH 08/03/1940 p3#7)
Mar 10 Cape Race: Field ice 44°07’N 63°15’W to Jeddore, NS. (IIP p2#13)
Mar 10 Cape Race: Field ice along coast NE from Jeddore, NS. (IIP p2#14)
Mar 13 Camperdown: Scattered ice floes 44°20’N 62°30’W. (IIP p2.15)
Mar 13 Halifax, Nova Scotia, radio station: 44°20’N 62°(?)30’W, scattered ice floes have been reported in this position and [at] 43°55’N 61°55’W, an ice field covering an area of 15 miles has been reported in this position. (HB 2637 Mar 20)
Mar 15 DOT aerial survey: Close pack to position approximately 30 miles 135° from Bonaventure Island; from this position towards Fame Point slob and pan ice extends to approximately 10 miles off Fame point but I-shore close packed from position 9 miles 180° from Southwest Point, Anticosti westward as far as can be seen. Strings and slob easily navigable from this position. (CIS IC0747)
Mar 15 DOT aerial survey: Conditions toward Cape Ray (from Southwest Point), open water approximately 10 miles on each side of ship track to position approximately 40 miles 202° from Heath Point. From this position to 55 miles 177° from Heath Point encountered dense fog. From this position to Cape Ray open water with exception of occasional pieces 20 miles W of Cape Ray easily navigable… to the northwestward of Cape Ray large area of open water. Sighted field of ice approximately 6 miles N of St. Pauls. (CIS IC0791)
Mar 16 Camperdown: Ice field 15 mile area 43°55’N 61°55’W. (IIP p2#16)
Mar 19 DOT aerial survey: S of a line four five miles 045° from North Point, PEI to 5 miles 180° from Deadman Island in direction of N shore PEI, heavy close packed ice. From this line to area eastwards and westwards as far as can be seen large strings. Open water approximately 5 miles on ship track in area. (CIS IC0815)
Mar 20 This is the first time in years that no drift ice has been seen in Codroy Harbor. This fact might account for the mild Mar. wind. (TWS, pg. 2, Col. 5)
Mar 22 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Northumberland Strait packed except area 15 miles E from East Point towards Cape Bear. (CIS IC0939)
Mar 22 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Large field extends from Magdalen Island to a point 45 miles E of Scatari. S of Newfoundland and entrance to Cabot Strait seem to be clear. (CIS IC1002)
Mar 22 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: S coast of Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island was clear 10 miles off shore except for occasional narrow strings. (CIS IC1091)
Mar 22 DOT aerial survey: Large field extends from Magdalen Island to a point 45 miles E of Scatari Island. Scattered ice seen NW of St. Paul Island to Bird Rock Island. (CIS IC0843)
Mar 22 Sydney: Drift ice filling practically every harbor, bay and inlet along the coastline at the present time has brought the Cape Breton fishing industry to a temporary standstill. Fishermen at the present time are taking advantage of the lull in the industry by repairing their boats and equipment so that they will be ready to resume activity as soon as the ice leaves the coast. (HH 23/03/1940 p9#3,4)
Mar 29 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Large area of open water between Cape Bear and East Point PEI extending to within 12 to 15 miles of NW coast of Cape Breton. (CIS IC0951)
Mar 29 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Close pack and open ice from Cape North to within 10 miles of Cape Ray, ice has moved down towards Cape Ray. (CIS IC1002)
Mar 29 C.G.S. “N.B. Mclean”: A large area of open water as far as could be seen extends northwestward N of a line from 25 miles 180° from Heath Point to 20 miles 090° from Gaspe while S of this line to Magdalens and within 15 miles of N coast of PEI open and close pack. Large area open water off entrance Bay of Chaleur, also from Shippigan Isle toward Northumberland Strait. (CIS IC0778)
Mar 29 DOT aerial survey: Narrow strip of open water from Cape Ray to approximately 35 miles, 315° from Cape Ray. Northwestward from this position to 25 miles 180° from Heath Point close pack. (CIS IC0843)
Apr The Gulf of St. Lawrence was open to navigation early in April. (IIP p2)
Apr 1 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: The S coast of Newfoundland is clear, some strings are reported 47°00’N 58°00’W. (CIS IC1002)
Apr 1-2 C.G.S. “N.B. Mclean”: 2:50 p.m. E.S.T. ice extended towards Chaleur Bay in all directions with some openings along the N shore side; proceeding in Chaleur Bay to carry out investigation and passed 5 miles off Cape Espoir ice conditions continued same but much open water on the N side; although close packed on Miscou side. 6:20 p.m. E.S.T. ship cleared the soft ice 7 miles off Point Maquereau bearing 320° true, and open water was noted as far as we could see. After proceeding some distance we turned around and headed outward, in the same ice mentioned above, on course 065° true. (CIS IC0921)
Apr 3 Camperdown: Field ice extending NE and NW from 48°50’N 50°00’W. (IIP p2#17)
Apr 3 Herring fishers have again set their nets, now that the Arm is freed of drifting ice. (TWS, p.2).
Apr 3 Spring, which we felt was almost within our grasp, has vanished and winter dominates again. The air has in it the chill of drift ice, which appeared this week for the first time in Codroy. (TWS, p.7)
Apr 3 The drift ice did not last long in Port aux Basques harbor. It was such a mild winter that the brook did not freeze over, and many people were unable to get hay out of Grand Bay Brook for their cattle owing to the weather being so mild. (TWS, p.7)
Apr 3 The people of Trout River secured some twenty odd young hoods when the ice came to land there some three weeks ago. (TWS 24 Apr p.2).
Apr 3 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Investigated Chaleur Bay up to Maquereau Point; can see considerable slob ice with large openings on N shore but close packed on Miscou side. Above Maquereau Point open water as far as we can see. (CIS IC0924)
Apr 3 DOT aerial survey: Conditions in gulf much improved and navigation now possible over Cape Ray – Bird Rocks – Fame Point route. (CIS IC0733)
Apr 3 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: 4:00 a.m. ship’s mean time, the ship proceeded on her patrol; and found before departure taken during the night, (18 miles bearing 182°T from Cape Espoir) ice moving eastward at a rate of ½ mile per hour. From above position heading towards western edge of ice and at 8:00 a.m. in 48°33’N 63°16’W at the western edge and followed same towards South Point, Anticosti. 10:00 a.m. South Point bearing 040°T 32 miles off and altered course to pass 10 miles off Bird Rocks. Clear water but southern edge of ice kept in sight. 1:20 p.m. met a field of ice in 48°20’N 61°57’W which was very soft and broken, extending across the steamer track, and ½ mile wide; and following same to locate area, 2:15 p.m. steaming through string of slob and broken ice extending from SW to northeasterly; altered course to clear same and locate the best passage, at position 48°13’N 61°45’W. At 3:18 p.m. steering 122° in clear water. 4:57 p.m. Bird Rocks abeam 8 miles off no ice sighted in the vicinity of Bird Rocks. (CIS IC0748-IC0748_2)
Apr 3 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: Changing course and proceeding towards Entry Island. 6:27 p.m. Entry Island bearing 224°T at this position in slob ice being of a soft nature. Following that soft ice in the direction of Entry Island, 8:00 p.m. edge of ice in 47°21’N 61°23’W; no light on Entry Island was sighted although visibility was good. Running through ice for 20 minutes on southerly course and stopped the ship for the night until daylight. Ice was very soft and light also close packed. (CIS IC0816)
Apr 3 North Sydney: Balked by ice in an attempt to reach a northern Cape Breton community to remove a patient believed to be suffering from blood poisoning, indications tonight were the government icebreaker “Montcalm” would make another try as soon as conditions improved. The “Montcalm” was forced to turn back following its attempt to reach Ingonish Tuesday when ice barriers packed in by an onshore wind prevented it from getting closer than five miles to the port. (HH 04/04/1940 p9#8)
Apr 4 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Canso Harbour and Strait is open but N entrance blocked; heavy ice in George Bay and W coast of Cape Breton. (CIS IC0959)
Apr 4 DOT aerial survey: North Sydney and Louisburg harbours open and navigation along the coast between these harbours possible. S coast of Cape Breton is clear. (CIS IC1074)
Apr 4 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: S coast of Nova Scotia and Cape Breton are clear to Louisburg and Sydney harbour is clear. (CIS IC1091)
Apr 4 DOT aerial survey: Navigation through Gulf to Father Point is now possible large areas in Gulf and E coast of Cape Breton are covered with ice namely S and W of a line from Cape des Rosiers to 30 miles S of Cape Ray to 75 miles SE of Scatari light to Mainadieu Passage. Within this area open and close packed ice navigation is difficult and some cases impossible except to Bay of Chaleur, Sydney and local area around PEI; also area N of a line from South Point, Anticosti to Cape George, Nfld. Between these lines mostly clear water with exception of strings and patches easily navigable to NW of Bird Rocks. (CIS IC0733)
Apr 4 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: 4:20 a.m. proceeding towards Entry Island; 5:36 a.m. abeam of Entry Islands. Clear water extended from Entry Island to a distance of 8 miles off. 8:25 stopped ship in ice 18 miles from St. Pauls Island bearing 173°T. From 12 miles off Bird Rocks to present position [?] no ice sighted. 9:46 a.m. proceeded towards Bird Rocks; 12:35 P.M. met a string of ice extending towards Old Harry and about 5 miles wide but very soft and open. (CIS IC0816 & IC0842)
Apr 5 Louisburg: Field ice E coast Cape Breton. (IIP p2#19)
Apr 5 Louisburg: Field ice Louisburg Harbour to 45°15’N 58°00’W. (IIP p2#20)
Apr 5 Louisburg: Heavy field ice Northumberland Strait. (IIP p2#21)
Apr 6 Louisburg: Large areas of field ice Gulf of St. Lawrence. (IIP p2#22)
Apr 6 Louisburg: Large areas of field ice E coast of Cape Breton. (IIP p2#23)
Apr 6 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Canso harbour and Strait to Mulgrave is clear and ice is loosening in George Bay but route via East point and Northumberland Strait not recommended. (CIS IC0959)
Apr 6 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: as CIS IC1091 for 6th Apr. (CIS IC1091)
Apr 6 DOT aerial survey: The S coast of Newfoundland is clear and ships may with caution be navigated to Father Point. (CIS IC0733)
Apr 7 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Bay of Chaleur is clear. (CIS IC0924)
Apr 7 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Southward from Birch Point through Northumberland to Pictou Island is practically clear. (CIS IC0939)
Apr 7 DOT aerial survey: In western part of Gulf ice is soft and breaking up. (CIS IC0733)
Apr 9 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: No ice sighted S of line from 50 miles N of Sable Island to Cape Race. (CIS IC0909)
Apr 9 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: “10:00 a.m. left Halifax Monday night. Tuesday night SE of Scatari met heavy ice for 35 miles, then clear water for 21 miles. While steaming towards St. Pierre on a course N.14 W. Mag. to Cape Ray heavy ice was encountered. We stopped for the night in 44[?]°15’N 58°50’W in heavy SE gale.” (CIS IC0909_2)
Apr 9 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: Left Louisburg and proceeded towards Scatari Island on ice survey; we met ice 4 miles off Louisburg, the ship steamed through same until 8:20 a.m. then a ship was sighted bearing 075° T from us; we changed course and headed for same and at 9:50 a.m. arrived alongside the SS “Randa” jammed in heavy packed ice. Due to ice conditions decided to take her into Louisburg. (CIS IC1085)
Apr 9 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: S coast of Cape Breton and Nova Scotia clear to Scatari and Sydney harbour is open. (CIS IC1091)
Apr 9 DOT aerial survey: Conditions are good also in western part of Gulf, Bay of Chaleur and entrance is clear and practically clear water extends from there southward through Northumberland Strait to Pictou Island. Ice areas in Gulf and E coast of Cape Breton are S and W of lines from Birch Point to Bird Rocks to 20 miles N of St. Pauls to 60 miles NE of Scatari. Also area N of a line from Heath Point to 30 miles SE[SW?] of Bay of Islands, Nfld. Between these lines is the navigable area. The S coast of Newfoundland is clear. (CIS IC0733_2)
Apr 9 DOT aerial survey: Clear water extends from Cape Ray to Bird Rock to Fame Point with exception of strings and patches between Heath Point and Bird Rock. (CIS IC0843)
Apr 10 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: “Next morning the 10th at 8:45 a.m. went ahead dead slow in heavy packed ice and dense fog. We got clear of the ice in the evening in 47°00’N 59°05’W.” (CIS IC0909_2 & 0730)
Apr 10 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: 8:45 a.m. stopped ship in heavy packed ice 4.5 miles bearing 059° from Scatari, remaining there until 3:30 p.m. when fog conditions began to clear up and proceeded towards Port Nova steaming all the time through the ice, The “McLean” cleared the edge of the ice off Port Nova. (CIS IC1018_2)
Apr 10 Louisburg, N.S. [VAS], Radio Station: Navigation in the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Father Point is now possible, but the shore ice between Québec and Montréal is still holding. From Québec eastward to Cape des Rosiers and to Bird Rocks and Cape Ray the conditions are good but there are large areas in the southern part of the Gulf. The east coast of Cape Breton is still covered with ice. The south coasts of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia are clear. The south coast of Cape Breton is clear to Guion Island but eastward from there ice extends out to the southeast and east for a distance of 60 miles. Sydney Harbour is open and clear water extends from Flat Point northward for 30 miles. Ships bound from the west and south [bound] for the Gulf and Newfoundland should pass south and east of the above-mentioned ice. There is no ice from a position 50 miles north of Sable Island to Cape Race. The route via the Strait of Canso is not recommended. (HB 2641 Apr 17)
Apr 11 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Ice extends out from Scatari to the S and E for 60 miles or more. (CIS IC0909)
Apr 11 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Bay of Chaleur open to Dalhousie but ice solid between there and Campbellton. (CIS IC0924)
Apr 11 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Practically clear water extends from (Bay of Chaleur) southward through Northumberland Strait to Cape Bear. (CIS IC0939)
Apr 11 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Route via East Point and Northumberland not recommended. Open water up E coast of PEI to East Point. Ice is packed on W coast of Cape Breton and in George Bay. (CIS IC0951)
Apr 11 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Strait of Canso is navigable, Mulgrave reports little scattered ice and Harbour Bouchere considerable scattered ice in both strait and bay, but route via East point and Northumberland not recommended. (CIS IC0959)
Apr 11 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Louisburg harbour full of ice and navigation via Scatari to Sydney not possible tonight. (CIS IC1079)
Apr 11 DOT aerial survey: Ice area in Gulf and E coast of Cape Breton bounded by the following lines from North Point, PEI to 10 miles N of Bird Rock to 20 miles S of Cape Ray to 75 miles E of Scatari to 60 miles 130° to 40 miles 100° to Guion Island also from Heath Point to 20 miles S then running NE to vicinity of Bay of Islands. Between these lines is the navigable area. (CIS IC0733_2)
Apr 11 DOT aerial survey: Clear water extends from entrance to Bay of Chaleur southward through Northumberland Strait to Hillsborough Bay. (CIS IC0809)
Apr 11 DOT aerial survey: Very little (ice) in sight around the Magdalens. No ice at Bird Rocks. (CIS IC0815 & IC0843)
Apr 11 Navigation through the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Québec is now possible but shore ice between Portneuf and Montréal is still holding. From Québec eastward to East Point, Bird Rocks, and Cape Ray the conditions are good. The western part of the Gulf and Bay of Chaleur to Dalhousie is open. The south coasts of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia are clear. The south coast of Cape Breton to Guion Island is clear but eastward from there ice is in on the coast. Louisburg Harbour is full and ice extends south and east from there for a distance of 60 to 75 miles. Navigation via Scatari to Sydney is not possible at present. Ships from west and south [bound] for Gulf and Newfoundland should pass south and east of the above-mentioned ice. There is no ice south of a line from a position 50 miles north of Sable Island to Cape Race. There is a large ice field in 40°09’N 49°30’W. The route via Strait of Canso, East Point, and Northumberland Strait is not recommended. (HB 2641 Apr 17)
Apr 12 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: 12:05 p.m. sighted schooner, reported by naval authorities drifting ashore with the ice pack, position being off White Point. 1:15 p.m. taking schooner “Palfrey” in tow, 1000 feet from a shoal, in close packed ice; the schooner being in a very dangerous position of being crushed by the ice on the shore… Changing course towards another vessel farther distant and at 3:30 p.m. met SS “Uganda” jammed in ice 7 miles 186° T from Louisburg, and started convoying her towards Sydney. (CIS IC1018_2)
Apr 12 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Louisburg harbour clear, loose packed ice outside harbour and off shore as far as can be seen. (CIS IC1079)
Apr 12 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: S coast of Nova Scotia (is clear) but ice is drifting on the Cape Breton coast. (CIS IC1091)
Apr 12 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: Passed Fame Point and no ice in sight. At 1:50 p.m. EST passed Cape Gaspe and at 2:25 p.m. entered into slob ice in position 3 miles off Bonaventure Island bearing 300°T. 2:50 p.m. ice extended towards Chaleur Bay in all directions with some openings along the N shore side. (CIS IC0748)
Apr 13 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Ice in Dalhousie reported breaking up today. (CIS IC0924)
Apr 13 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Southward through Northumberland Strait to Hillsborough Bay conditions good but eastward from there to Cape Bear, St. George Bay and W coast of Cape Breton open and close packed ice and navigation difficult. (CIS IC0939)
Apr 13 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: 3:00 p.m. visibility improving both ships started very slowly and very little progress made due to the “Uganda” being light and the ice close packed. (CIS IC1018_2)
Apr 13 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Louisburg reports loose packed ice as far as can be seen off shore. (CIS IC1079)
Apr 14 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: Ice close packed and great difficulty was experienced owing to lack of visibility and the “Uganda” being unable to follow in our track. 5:20 p.m. ice getting loose and visibility improving making good progress towards Sydney. 6 a.m. reached clear water and steering towards Sydney. (CIS IC1018_3)
Apr 15 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: No ice reported S of a line from Cape Race to Halifax. (CIS IC0909)
Apr 15 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Northward from there (George Bay) much ice between E coast of PEI and W coast of Cape Breton and route via East Point, PEI not navigable. (CIS IC0951)
Apr 15 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Canso Harbour and Strait are open, Harbour Bouchere reports no ice in sight. (CIS IC0959)
Apr 15 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Louisburg harbour is full and ice is off shore as far as can be seen. (CIS IC1079)
Apr 15 DOT aerial survey: Ice in eastern part of Gulf has moved northward and area bounded by following lines from 47°00’N 63°00’W to 48°30’N 62°10’W to 15 miles NE of Bird Rocks to 10 miles NW of Cape Anguille to 10 miles W and S of Cape Ray to 47°15’N 58°38’W to 45°54’N 58°00’W to Guion Island. Outside these lines, practically clear except between Cape Ray and Cape Anguille. (CIS IC0733_3)
Apr 16 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Canso Harbour and Strait are open with scattered ice in S part of George bay and navigation today possible through strait. (CIS IC0959)
Apr 16 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: 7:25 a.m. departed for ship expected off Sydney but no position given. Continued towards Scatari and found ice moved off shore about 2 miles. 10:11 a.m. … Ice field was at this time at a position 6 miles off Flint Island. 10:20 a.m. heading in ice and steering towards Newfoundland to locate ship due at Sydney. After steaming through heavy packed ice for 33 miles met northern edge of same in 46°53’N 59°15’W. Following edge of ice towards Cape Ray. (CIS IC1018_3)
Apr 16 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Narrow strip of loose ice along coast westward to St. Esprit. (CIS IC1091)
Apr 17 Louisburg: Field ice strings to southward Cape Ray. (IIP p2#25)
Apr 17 Louisburg: Field ice extending Cape Esprit to 45°15’N 59°10’W to 47°12’N 59°08’W. (IIP p2#26&27)
Apr 17 Louisburg: Field ice 12 miles S of Louisburg. (IIP p3#28)
Apr 17 Louisburg: Light ice vicinity East Point, PEI. (IIP p3#29)
Apr 17 Louisburg: Some open strings of field ice Cape Ray to Cape Anguille. (IIP p3#30)
Apr 17 Word from Bonne Bay last week stated that some young seals had been killed when the ice was inshore recently. (TWS, p.2).
Apr 17 C.G.S. “N.B. McLean”: 7:02 a.m. entering ice off Point Aconi and steaming through same on various courses to pass 6 miles NE of St. Pauls Island. Ice is heavy but open. From St. Pauls altered course to pass 12 miles N of Bird Rocks, ice conditions continued the same, and ship made good progress. 6:30 p.m. reached clear water. (CIS IC1018_3 & IC0842)
Apr 17 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Louisburg is open but slob ice is in Louisburg harbour. (CIS IC1079)
Apr 18 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Ice extends to 45°54 N 58°00’W to 47°15’N 58°38’W to Bird Rocks. This is a large body of ice but fairly open. (CIS IC1002)
Apr 18 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Heavy ice 4 miles S of Louisburg extending 12 miles off shore, clear passage to 2 miles wide close to Cape Breton coast between Scatari and Flint Island and Louisburg and Sydney harbours are open. (CIS IC1079)
Apr 18 Louisburg, N.S. [VAS], Radio Station reports: Navigation through the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Québec is now open. Shore ice from Lake St. Peter to Montréal is still holding but is expected to clear by April 28. Saguenay River is still frozen to Point Alfred. From Québec eastward to Fame Point, western portion of Gulf including Chaleur Bay and Northumberland Strait to 63d meridian the waters are clear. Eastward from there, north of a line joining Fame Point and Cape Ray, ice is clear except for some open strings between Cape Ray and Cape Anguille. The south coasts of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia are clear. The south coast of Cape Breton to St. Esprit Island is clear but east from there ice extends to 45°44’N 58°00’W, and thence to 47°15’N 58°38’W. Ships from west and south bound for the Gulf and Newfoundland should pass south and east of this ice. There is no ice south of a line extending from Halifax to Cape Race. Canso Harbour and Strait are open and Northumberland Strait is navigable today, but the route via East Point is not recommended. (HB 2642 Apr 24)
Apr 19 Louisburg: Field ice Cape Esprit to 45°50’N 58°00’W to 47°15’N 58°48’W to Bird Rocks. (IIP p3#31,32&33)
Apr 19 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Eastward from St. Esprit ice extends to 45°54’N 58°00’W west to 47°15’N 58°38’W to Bird Rocks. (CIS IC0909)
Apr 19 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Northumberland Strait clear to 63rd meridian. (CIS IC0939)
Apr 19 DOT aerial survey: Western part of Gulf (including Bay of Chaleur open to I.P. wharf at Dalhousie and Northumberland Strait) clear to the 63rd meridian. Eastward from there N of a line from Fame Point to Cape Ray conditions good, some open strings may be met. (CIS IC0733_3)
Apr 19 First arrival of season at Quebec. (WBB)
Apr 19 First steamer this season, “Ciss” arrived (Charlottetown) this morning from the West Indies. (Pat 19 Apr p5 c3)
Apr 20 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Ice extends SE and E from Scatari for a distance of 60 miles with eastern edge extending northward to 28 miles S of Port aux Basque. This is a large body of ice but fairly open. (CIS IC0909)
Apr 20 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Port Hood is clear; ice visible to the N. East point, PEI reports only scattered ice in sight. (CIS IC0985)
Apr 20 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: S coast of Newfoundland is clear, loose open ice from 28 miles off Port aux Basque to 18 miles off Flat Point. (CIS IC1002)
Apr 20 DOT aerial survey: No ice at Heath Point. Eastward from there N of a line from 15 miles N of Bird Rocks to 20 miles S of Channel Head, Nfld. Conditions good, some scattered strings. (CIS IC0843_2)
Apr 20 Steamer “Ciss” being unloaded at Charlottetown. (Pat 20 Apr p5 c3)
Apr 21 Louisburg, N.S. [VAS], Radio Station reports: Navigation through the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Québec is now open. From Québec to Montréal the river is expected to be navigable in a few days. Saguenay River is still frozen. From Québec eastward to Fame Point and northward of a line extending from a position 15 miles north of Bird Rocks to a position 20 miles south of Cape Ray the conditions are good with some open strings. The south coasts of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia are clear. The south coast of Cape Breton is clear eastward to Scatari but ice extends out to the southeast and east from there for 60 miles with its eastern edge extending from there northward to a position 20 miles south of Port aux Basques. Louisburg Harbour is clear with ice visible on the horizon, visibility 12 miles. Sydney Harbour is clear and navigation is possible between Scatari and Flat Point along the coast of Cape Breton. Canso Harbour and Strait are open and the route via Northumberland Strait is navigable with ice in the vicinity of East Point. (HB 2642 Apr 24)
Apr 22 Louisburg: Scattered strings 48°17’N 61°30’W to 47°12’N 59°08’W. (IIP p3#34)
Apr 22 Louisburg: Field ice Louisburg Harbour. (IIP p3#35)
Apr 22 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Heavy strip of ice full length midway Northumberland Strait. (CIS IC0939)
Apr 22 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Canso no ice in sight, Mulgrave no ice in sight, Port Hood no ice in sight. (CIS IC0959_2)
Apr 22 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Ice at entrance of Louisburg harbour. (CIS IC1079_2)
Apr 23 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Dalhousie ice still holding between Stomar and Heron Island. (CIS IC0924)
Apr 23 Georgetown – the harbour and rivers are now free of ice. (Pat 23 Apr p3 c6)
Apr 24 Louisburg: Field ice 7 miles offshore Louisburg Harbour. (IIP p3#36)
Apr 24 Louisburg: Field ice as far as can be seen Sydney Harbour. (IIP p3#37)
Apr 24 DOT aerial survey: Cape Ray, Bird Rocks, St. Pauls, no ice in sight. (CIS IC0843_2)
Apr 24 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: North Sydney full and ice packed on coast as far as can be seen. (CIS IC1023_2)
Apr 24 Louisburg, N.S. [VAS], Radio Station reports: Navigation through the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Québec is now open and the river to Montréal will be open tomorrow. Saguenay River is still frozen over. From Québec eastward to approximately 62°30’W, including Chaleur Bay the waters are open. Near Dalhousie the ice is still holding between St. Omar and Heron Island. From 30 miles north of Brion Island to 20 miles south of Channel Head, Newfoundland, there are scattered strings. Louisburg Harbour is clear of ice, but ice is visible about 7 miles offshore. Sydney Harbour is full of loose ice. There is no ice south of a line extending from Cape Race to Halifax. North Sydney Harbour is full and ice is packed on coast as far as can be seen. There is no ice in sight at St. Paul [Island], Cape Ray, or Bird Rocks. At Elmira the ice is pushed to westward in Strait 1 mile along the shore to Gulf and south in Strait. Port Hood Bay is clear of ice. Mulgrave, Canso, and Havre Boucher are also clear. (HB 2643 May 1)
Apr 25 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: No ice in sight at Dalhousie. (CIS IC0924)
Apr 25 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Route via Strait of Canso and East Point navigable with caution. (CIS IC0959_2)
Apr 25 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Route via Strait of Canso and East Point navigable with caution. Elmira ice pushed to westward in strait 1 miles along shore in Gulf and S in strait. Port Hood Bay clear of ice. (CIS IC0985)
Apr 25 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Louisburg harbour is clear but narrow strip ½ mile wide extends SSE from lighthouse. (CIS IC1079_2)
Apr 25 DOT aerial survey: N of a line from 48°00’N 62°30’W to 25 miles 215° Cape Ray occasional strings. (CIS IC0787)
Apr 25 DOT aerial survey: Amherst 2 miles ice, 12 miles off shore. Pleasant Bay half full of close packed ice. (CIS IC0815)
Apr 26 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Ice extends…. from Scatari along S coast to St. Esprit as far as can be seen southward. (CIS IC1091_2)
Apr 27 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Elmira about 5 miles of open drift ice along shore of Gulf and Strait. (CIS IC0985)
Apr 27 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Ice extends from Scatari to 10 miles 090° from Cape North along Cape Breton coast. (CIS IC1023_2)
Apr 27 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Louisburg considerable ice off coast but apparently scattered. (CIS IC1079_2)
Apr 28 Louisburg: Some loose field ice offshore Louisburg Harbour. (IIP p3#38)
Apr 28 Louisburg: Scattered field ice Gulf of St. Lawrence. (IIP p3#39)
Apr 28 DOT aerial survey: Strings will be encountered from East Point, PEI to the Magdalens. (CIS IC0815)
Apr 28 Louisburg, N.S. [VAS], Radio Station reports: Navigation through the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Montréal is now open. From Québec eastward to 62°30’W, including Chaleur Bay, the waters are open. The south coast of Newfoundland is clear. At North Sydney no open water is in sight. There is no ice in sight at Bird Rocks, Grosse Isle, and Old Harry. Pleasant Bay is about half full of loose ice. There is not ice in sight at St. Paul Island and Cape Ray. At Amherst there is open ice about 6 miles offshore. The route via Strait of Canso and East Point is navigable with caution. The route to the Gulf via Scatari is clear by following the southern and eastern edge of the ice. At Louisburg there is very little loose ice offshore. There is no ice in sight at Canso and Havre Boucher. (HB 2643 May 1)
Apr 29 “William G. Warden” heavy field ice 46°14’N 59°40’W to 46°42’N 59°56’W. (IIP p3#40)
Apr 29 46°14’N 59°40’W to 46°12’N 59°56’W heavy floe ice. (NYMR)
Apr 29 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: North Sydney filled with heavy ice, no open water in sight. (CIS IC1023_2)
Apr 29 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Louisburg, little loose open ice 8 miles off shore. (CIS IC1079_2)
Apr 29 First trip of the summer steamer to the Magdalene Islands will be on Monday (April 29th) is the final step of opening the new shipping season. Two steamers arrived in Charlottetown this week from abroad, one of which sailed for Newfoundland. (Pat 27 Apr p5 c3)
Apr 29 Rustico – blessing of the boats – no mention of ice. (Pat 29 Apr p8 c3)
Apr 29 SS “William G. Warden”: from 46°14’N 59°40’W to 46°42’N 59°56’W, sighted heavy floe ice; temperature of sea water at surface 33°F. (HB 2645 May 15)
Apr 29 Boston: A strange absence of icebergs in the Atlantic Ocean puzzled officers of the International Ice Patrol tonight- with the result the Coast Guard cutter “Chelan” was ordered to start north to see why the bergs are six weeks late. The patrol maintained by the United States since the Titanic disaster, usually begins in March to chart the course of the big ice cakes as they approach the trans-Atlantic ship lanes. So far this year, however, no bergs or field ice have been sighted. The “Chelan,” in command of Commander Edward H Smith, will leave within a week to follow the coast of Labrador and Greenland. One theory is that an unusually warm Winter in Baffin Bay may have prevented the formation of field ice, with the result the bergs have worked their way into bays and grounded. The usual iceberg season begins in March and ends in June. Last year, however, the patrol left March 9 and remained on duty until August. It was the longest season in the patrol’s 26 years. Six hundred bergs were charted, compared with a quarter-century average of 439. (HH 30/04/1940 p3#7,8)
Apr 30 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Drift ice in Northumberland Strait between Cape George and Cape Bear. (CIS IC0939)
Apr 30 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: North Sydney ice loosening up and moving off slowly. (CIS IC1023_2)
Apr 30 C.G.S. “Citadelle”: Ice extends from 5 miles off Scatari to 10 miles off St. Esprit. (CIS IC1091_2)
Apr 30 Lobster season opens tomorrow – no mention of ice. (Pat 30 Apr p12 c3)
May 1 DOT aerial survey: Northumberland Strait between Cape George and Cape Bear westward clear. (CIS IC0940)
May 1 DOT aerial survey: Mulgrave Harbour, Bouchere and Canso no ice in sight. (CIS IC0961)
May 1 DOT aerial survey: East Point, scattered drift ice in Gulf and Strait. (CIS IC0994)
May 1 DOT aerial survey: [part missing?] Cape Breton coast to 5 miles off Scatari (CIS IC1022_2)
May 1 DOT aerial survey: Louisburg, narrow strip of ice about 2 miles off shore ½ mile wide. (CIS IC1074)
May 1 DOT aerial survey: Narrow strip (of ice) from St. Esprit to Scatari. (CIS IC1092_3)
May 1 DOT aerial survey: From Quebec eastward including Bay of Chaleur, open; N of a line from 47°00’N 62°30’W to 47°00’N 60°00’W, no ice sighted. (CIS IC0735)
May 1 DOT aerial survey: Escumiac, some ice coming off harbour. (CIS IC0802)
May 1 DOT aerial survey: Pleasant Bay half full of loose ice slowly moving eastward. (CIS IC0818)
May 1 DOT aerial survey: Route through Gulf via East Point, PEI navigable with caution; strings and patches will be encountered from East Point to 15 miles southward of Magdalen Islands. (CIS IC0829)
May 2 Louisburg: Scattered field ice Gulf of St. Lawrence. (IIP p3#41)
May 2 Louisburg, N.S. [VAS], Radio Station reports: There is considerable ice on the east coast of Cape Breton Island and also scattered strings and patches between East Point and the Magdalen Islands. Caution is necessary. The broadcasting of ice conditions in Gulf of St. Lawrence is being discontinued for the season. (HB 2644 May 8)
May 4 Malpeque Bay fisherman drowns at entrance to Darnley Basin, no mention of ice. (Pat 4 May p1 c6)
May 12 The United States Coast Guard cutter “Chelan” left Boston, Mass., to inaugurate the International Ice Observation Service for season of 1940. (HB 2646 May 22)
May 13 U.S. Coast Guard cutter “Chelan”: p.m. position, 40°35’N 69°34’W. No ice reported. (HB 2646 May 22)
May 14 U.S. Coast Guard cutter “Chelan”: a.m. position, 40°15’N 66°23’W. No ice reported. p.m. position, 40°07’N 63°00’W. No ice reported. (HB 2646 May 22)
May 15 U.S. Coast Guard cutter “Chelan”: a.m. position, 40°20’N 59°51’W. No ice reported. p.m. position, 40°25’N 57°38’W. No ice reported. (HB 2646 May 22)
Jun 26 First Westbound steamer through the strait of Belle Isle. (WBB)