A major winter storm is set to impact southern Quebec this weekend, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. The storm, which is expected to last from Friday evening, March 28, 2025, until Sunday, March 30, 2025, will particularly affect areas such as Montreal and the Eastern Townships.
According to Environment Canada, the first impulse of the storm will begin on Friday evening, with snowfall primarily expected. However, there is a possibility of sleet and freezing rain, especially along the US border, as the system intensifies overnight into Saturday.
Snow accumulations are projected to be significant, with Témiscamingue expecting between 15 and 25 cm of snow by Saturday evening. In Outaouais, up to 20 cm is anticipated, while Montérégie and the Montreal region could see between 15 and 20 cm. Estrie is also likely to receive between 15 and 25 cm of snow, while the Laurentians are expected to get 10 to 15 cm. Mauricie may see accumulations of up to 10 cm, and the rest of the province is predicted to avoid the worst, with a maximum of 5 cm expected by Saturday evening.
The storm is particularly concerning as it follows a pattern of severe winter weather that has not been seen often since December 2024. Montrealers are being advised to prepare for what has been described as a "real weather cocktail," which includes not just snow but also high winds and potentially hazardous conditions.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather bulletin highlighting the potential for significant snow accumulations across southern and southwestern Quebec. The bulletin warns that the snow could transition into sleet, complicating travel and increasing risks for residents.
Travel conditions are expected to be challenging, especially on major highways. Highway 401 towards Toronto and Route 417 towards Ottawa should be monitored closely, as icy patches are likely to form. Highway 50 is also expected to face difficulties due to freezing rain and snow. The situation is particularly precarious on Highway 15, which leads towards the Laurentians and New York State, where snow is anticipated from Friday night into Saturday.
As the storm progresses, the northern United States may experience a significant layer of freezing rain on Saturday, which could further impact conditions in southern Quebec. The risk of freezing rain along the US border is expected to increase by Saturday evening, raising concerns about road safety and power outages.
Last year, Quebec experienced heavy snowfall in early April, with accumulations between 20 and 30 cm leading to widespread power outages. Strong gusts during that storm caused hundreds of thousands of outages, a situation that officials are keen to avoid this time around. Nearly two years ago, an ice storm resulted in over a million outages due to ice accumulation reaching 35 mm in some areas.
Montreal residents are being urged to stay updated on weather conditions and to avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the storm. The combination of snow, freezing rain, and high winds could create hazardous conditions, making it essential for individuals to exercise caution.
In summary, the upcoming weekend promises to be a challenging one for southern Quebec, particularly in urban areas like Montreal. With significant snow accumulations expected and the potential for sleet and freezing rain, residents are advised to prepare for a storm that could disrupt daily life and travel plans.
As the storm approaches, it is crucial for everyone to stay informed through reliable weather updates and to take appropriate precautions to ensure safety. Whether it’s stocking up on supplies or planning travel around the weather, being proactive can make a difference during this winter weather event.
