Quebec has been gripped by an extreme cold snap, with some of the lowest temperatures recorded since late January 2024. Starting January 21, many parts of the province have faced unprecedented cold, with residents urged to take special precautions against the biting temperatures.
This harsh climate spell resulted from air masses cascading down from the Arctic, and according to meteorologist Kevin Cloutier, Montreal has not experienced temperatures reaching -20°C since February 25, 2023. Many people are adapting to the situation, but as temperatures plummeted to lows not seen for nearly two years, the days warmed at midday only slightly, and the biting cold has left them shivering.
On the coldest day, January 21, most cities turned their thermometers down to significantly stark readings: Rimouski and Quebec City posted lows of -20°C, with Val-d'Or, Saguenay, and Chibougamau having even sharper drops, reaching -36°C and -35°C, respectively.
Despite some cities nearing their long-term averages for cold, this unexpected wave is causing more than discomfort; it poses health risks. Frostbite can occur within minutes at these temperatures. Residents of Montreal, and Quebec as a whole, have been urged to bundle up whenever stepping outside.
Cloutier stated, "This cold wave has been significant; we may begin to see some respite later this week," hinting at the prospect of warmer conditions returning as the polar winds may relent temporarily before the consistent cold returns to sustain winter's icy grip.
Overall, citizens are struggling not just against the chill but also with the reality of day-to-day life disrupted. Schools have adjusted schedules, and some outdoor activities are curtailed. At the same time, as temperatures hover below -20°C, some municipalities are boosting resources aimed at keeping people safe, particularly the homeless.
The influence of broader weather patterns has also been noted. A diminishing air mass from the west coast has reshaped weather patterns, making way for icy air flows to sweep down the continent, and heightening the cold's influence throughout Quebec.
Interestingly, the month of January may end with atypical average temperatures, even with these records set for low extremes. Cloutier observes, "It is notable to mention the current pessimistic outlook and meteorological analysis yields balances. This may influence temperatures favorable for the onset of warmer conditions by February, even as we wade through severe winter conditions now."
This frigid weather isn't only affecting daily activities but also marks the end of the historical trend observed over the past two years, where Montreal had not dipped below the -20°C mark for 695 consecutive days, surpassing the previous record from 2001.
From 2023 to 2024, careful monitoring will play key roles as towns and departments face their toughest winter yet. Residents are advised to stay indoors as much as possible and keep updated with locals' safety warnings, particularly as temperatures are likely to continue fluctuated during this extreme cold wave.
While the week may end with more seasonal highs, Quebec is still firmly entrenched within the heart of winter, needing everyone to pay attention to risks. A cold retreat around the weekend may offer some reprieve with hopeful increases back to near-freezing conditions which the majority eagerly await. Until then, safety and warmth remain everyone's priority as the brutal spell continues.