Freezing rain and winter weather warnings are currently impacting large areas of Ontario and Quebec, prompting meteorologists to advise residents and travelers to prepare for icy conditions. Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued several weather alerts as temperatures rise and precipitation sweeps through the region.
The National Capital Region, including Ottawa, and parts of southern Ontario, are under freezing rain warnings. According to Barbara Lapido, an operational meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, residents can expect light freezing rain and slippery road conditions beginning Saturday morning.
“Patches of freezing rain are expected, particularly across the Ottawa Valley, which may face hazardous conditions throughout Saturday,” Lapido noted during her forecast briefing. She explained, “Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots could become icy.” The freezing rain is expected to continue until temperatures level off around 0 degrees Celsius late Sunday morning, switching eventually to rain as conditions warm.
While southern Ontario bears the brunt of winter weather warnings, Quebec is not exempt from these troublesome conditions. A weather alert was issued late Friday for regions across Quebec, which also includes warnings for freezing rain. Areas such as the island of Montreal and regions like Val d'Or, Malartic, and Lac Mistissini are at risk as this major rain system moves north from the United States. Montrealers, for example, should brace for slippery sidewalks and roads.
Residents should also brace for unusually high temperatures for this time of year, with early forecasts showing temperatures reaching unseasonable levels. Lapido indicated, “Between Saturday and Sunday, the GTA and other locations could see anywhere from 15 to 30 millimeters of rain.” This influx of rain will melt any remaining snow, potentially flooding waterlogged areas.
Temperatures over the weekend are expected to exceed normal seasonal averages, with some locations witnessing highs hovering around 12 degrees Celsius. “It’s going to be warmer than what we would typically expect for this time of year, especially across southern Ontario,” Lapido asserted, warning motorists and pedestrians alike.
While many areas may see the rain transition later to freezing rain, warnings remain especially pertinent for eastern Ontario—particularly regions where the freezing rain may linger for the entirety of the day. “This means people need to be vigilant, especially if they’re traveling,” Lapido said.
Quebec residents will largely experience temperatures above freezing on Sunday with forecasts showing highs around 4 degrees Celsius, getting uncomfortably warm for this late December. “We could even break some records next week with expected temperatures hitting 9 degrees Celsius by Monday,” noted Lapido.
Residents should keep abreast of conditions through Environment Canada’s website for real-time updates. Lapido provided guidance for those traveling: “Be prepared to adjust your driving for changing road conditions, and always check the forecasts before heading out.”
With New Year’s Eve approaching, the warmth, coupled with rain, is anticipated to let up slightly, allowing for less hazardous travel conditions. The cold is expected to return midweek, reinstilling normal freezing conditions just beyond New Year’s Day.
With winter officially upon us, the warnings serve as timely reminders of the need for caution during icy weather. The unpredictability of winter weather this season creates challenges for transportation, with the necessity to maintain safe driving habits closer at hand. This season has already proved to be warmer than anticipated, and the winter months hold the potential for several fluctuated weather patterns, causing concern for many.
Travelers are encouraged to exercise caution on the roads, especially on highways prone to icy conditions. It's wise to maintain safe distances and remain attentive to localized advisories. The ever-changing weather brings not only excitement but also risk, reinforcing the importance of being well informed and prepared.
