Environment Canada has issued a winter storm watch for all of Nova Scotia and P.E.I. Tire stores say customers are rushing to install winter tires before the snow hits. (CBC)

An incoming storm is expected to pummel Nova Scotia with snow and wind Saturday night and into Sunday morning.

The storm has led to a major rush at tire shops with many motorists trying to install their snow tires before a predicted 15 centimetres of snow hits the province.

One tire shop in Halifax told CBC News it's been flooded with calls.

Many who thought they could limp through the winter in all-season tires are admitting defeat.

"I decided finally to bite the bullet and get winter tires. I know it's late in the season, but, you know, the worst is still ahead of us," said Linda Piers.

She's getting her first set of winter tires.

While crews at Scotia Tire have been working feverishly to cut down the growing list of tire appointments, the waiting room is filled with concerned car owners.

"I don't want to get caught in the snow... [winter tires] give you better traction, safer," said Bassam Nahas.