Winter weather warnings blanket southern Quebec as residents prepare for significant snowfall this weekend. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued special weather alerts starting Friday evening through Saturday afternoon, predicting 10 to 15 centimeters of fresh snow accumulation across various regions.
The warning highlights the arrival of a low-pressure system originating from Ontario, which is expected to create hazardous driving conditions, particularly Friday night and Saturday morning. Strong gusts of wind at speeds reaching 40 km/h may exacerbate the conditions as snow blankets the roads.
Montreal, one of the cities expected to be significantly impacted, is set to surpass 100 centimeters of snow for the month of February, as confirmed by ECCC. The forecast predicts daytime highs around -5°C and lows plunging to -9°C, enhancing the wind chill factor, potentially dropping temperatures to -17°C overnight.
“The rapid accumulation of snow on the roads could make travel difficult,” stated ECCC officials. They urged caution as visibility is likely to be severely reduced due to the expected snow, with heavy snowfall predicted early Saturday morning.
Provincial warnings extend to other areas, with alerts for Gatineau, La Tuque, and other locations where over 15 centimeters of snow are expected. “The snowfall rates could be significant, especially early Saturday morning,” ECCC reiterated, underscoring the dangers presented by the storm.
Later, another weather system from Colorado is expected to arrive mid-next week, potentially introducing even more snow across the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region. Meteorologist Gina Ressler from Environment Canada has noted, “We are going to start the week with cold temperatures,” indicating wind chill factors nearing -30°C on Sunday and Monday mornings.
This weekend marks the beginning of the school break, when families look forward to outdoor activities, but the expected snowfall may limit those plans. The heavy snowfall expected Friday and Saturday is particularly concerning for travel, with even the most cautious drivers advised to avoid unnecessary journeys.
Saturday’s weather forecast looks slightly more favorable with expected temperatures climbing marginally to -3°C. Nonetheless, nighttime temperatures will still plummet to -17°C, ensuring the roads remain treacherous.
Following this storm system, weather models indicate the end of the week should be calmer with more stable conditions. Nevertheless, forecasters are closely monitoring developments and advise residents to stay updated on weather warnings.
The severe weather also compels school boards and local authorities to prepare for any impacts on operations, with potential delays or cancellations on the docket depending on road conditions.
Quebecers are encouraged to keep abreast of the latest weather updates via the ECCC website and local news outlets. Storms of this magnitude serve as reminders of the harsh winter months Quebec experiences annually and the precautions needed to stay safe.
More information about the accumulations across regions such as Gaspésie, where some locations might receive up to 40 centimeters of snow, is expected to be available through regional weather services.
Reports suggest fluctuations are possible as favorable conditions early on could switch to mixed precipitation later, especially for southern regions along the St. Lawrence River, complicative travel plans even more.
Given the extensive impact across multiple sectors from transportation to education, collective preparedness and adherence to warnings can significantly mitigate risks associated with severe winter weather.