Severe winter storm unleashes blustery winds and heavy snow across Ontario and Quebec.
Residents across Ontario and Quebec are bracing for the impact of a significant winter storm, characterized by exceptionally strong winds and heavy snowfall, as warnings from Environment Canada roll out. The storm, expected to peak during the night, poses risks of power outages and treacherous travel conditions.
Beginning Monday afternoon, January 27, southwestern Quebec is forecast to experience winds gusting up to 90 kilometers per hour. Environment Canada has issued special weather statements for both regions, underscoring the potential for local power outages. Those living in affected areas are encouraged to secure any outdoor objects to mitigate the risk of damage or dangerous projectiles.
A snow squall watch has also been issued for much of western and central Quebec, where visibility could drop to near zero due to heavy flurries and strong winds—conditions expected to materialize with little warning, thereby posing serious hazards for drivers.
Meanwhile, midwestern Ontario is not exempt from the storm’s wrath. Environment Canada has put wind warnings in place for Bruce and north Grey counties. Gusts here could reach between 80 to 90 kilometers per hour on Monday. These winds have the potential to break tree limbs, toss loose objects, and, alarmingly, cause power failures.
Highway 21 between Amberley and Tiverton has already been closed because of high winds and heavy drifting snow, with additional highways also reported closed due to the brutal weather conditions. Police advise travelers to keep headlights and taillights on and to avoid driving on closed roads.
Bus cancellations and school closures have surfaced across midwestern Ontario, particularly impacting the Bluewater District School Board, which announced the closure of several schools due to the inclement weather.
“Strong wind gusts, combined with heavy flurries, will result in significantly reduced visibility,” warned Environment Canada. The agency has emphasized the danger associated with these conditions as Ontario braces for the arrival of the storm.
Much of northern Ontario is on high alert as the storm unleashes blizzard warnings. A severe weather alert has been issued as the cold front pushes through, promising bursts of heavy snow coupled with strong winds—something travelers and residents should not take lightly.
“A very deep area of lower pressure is forecast to swirl across Hudson Bay on Monday, and its associated cold front will deliver an extra punch as it sweeps through Ontario,” noted Environment Canada, highlighting the urgent need for caution this week.
The weather agency has advised drivers to be prepared for hazardous travel conditions, recommending postponement of non-essential driving and urging residents to carry emergency kits and mobile phones if they must venture out.
Power outages remain of grave concern, especially for areas south of the greater Toronto region, where winds reaching 70 to 80 kilometers per hour are predicted. Quebec is experiencing similar conditions with warnings applicable to the southwestern areas of the province, covering the greater Montreal region.
With temperatures expected to plummet overnight, weekend forecasts predicted highs of -1°C on Monday for Montreal; it could feel even colder at -11°C with wind chill. A sharp cold front is predicted to arrive, making conditions feel closer to -23°C on Tuesday.
Environment Canada urges residents to monitor local weather alerts and forecasts to remain updated on rapidly changing conditions, as heavy snow is expected to carry on throughout the night.
Indeed, the storm expected over the next couple of days will bring with it brutal conditions exacerbated by the accompanying winds. It is important for residents across both provinces to heed warnings and exercise extreme caution during this severe winter weather event, ensuring safety remains their top priority.