Quebec is bracing for weather challenges this weekend, as Environment Canada issues both smog and freezing rain alerts across the province. Residents are advised to stay informed and exercise caution due to these weather conditions.
On Friday morning, Environment Canada announced warnings for smog affecting over thirty sectors, including significant urban areas. The government agency indicated, "Des concentrations élevées de polluants sont prévues et entraîneront une mauvaise qualité de l’air, en particulier dans les agglomérations où les émissions de polluants sont plus importantes," which emphasizes the health risks related to air quality during these conditions.
Environment Canada’s smog alert marks the second consecutive day for such advisories within the province. This situation poses serious health concerns, especially for those highly susceptible, such as children with asthma or individuals suffering from respiratory and cardiac issues, who are advised to avoid intense outdoor activities.
The alerts predominantly affect urban areas where pollutant emissions tend to peak. Among the specific locations with smog warnings are Bécancour, Laval, Longueuil, and Montreal, among others. To mitigate air quality issues, the city of Quebec has instituted temporary bans on all solid fuel-burning devices, showing proactive measures to tackle the pollution levels.
Alongside the smog instructions, Environment Canada is also forecasting freezing rain due to the arrival of warm air from the south, combined with the still-frozen surfaces across Quebec. This weather cocktail is expected to create hazardous conditions from Saturday evening through Monday morning, particularly affecting regions like Montreal, Lanaudière, and the Laurentians.
Gina Ressler, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, explained, "Après une semaine très froide, de l’air chaud arrive du sud, mais les surfaces sont toujours sous le point de congélation. Par conséquent, on peut s’attendre à des surfaces glacées et glissantes ce week-end avec de la pluie ou de la bruine verglaçante." She warned residents about the likelihood of slick roads and sidewalks as temperatures begin to slowly rise.
During Friday, parts of western Quebec, including Val-d’Or, may experience initial episodes of either freezing rain or drizzle. For most of the Saint Lawrence valley, precipitation is primarily forecasted from Saturday night through Sunday morning, potentially leading to icy conditions for commuters.
Environment Canada predicts accumulations of freezing rain may vary between 2 and 5 millimeters, which, coupled with the anticipation of wider rainfall following the freezing period, poses significant risks to transportation.
Ressler also highlighted the longer-term weather outlook. "Les surfaces glacées ne vont pas durer longtemps à cause d’une dépression en provenance du Texas. La glace va donc fondre dimanche et lundi avec des températures plus chaudes et une bonne quantité de pluie," indicating relief from freezing conditions is just around the corner, but warns of increased monitoring for water levels in local rivers once the snow begins to melt.
Those planning to head outdoors this weekend must remain vigilant about the changing conditions. All residents are encouraged to take necessary precautions during smog alerts, such as limiting wood-burning heating sources, which are identified as significant contributors to winter smog levels.
Forecasts suggest precipitation levels from Sunday to Monday may reach between 20 and 50 millimeters, particularly near the Saint Lawrence River and higher areas, leading to rapid melting of accumulated snow. This should raise water levels, necessitating close attention to local waterways through early next week.
With the New Year approaching, Quebec is set to enter another active weather phase. Environment Canada predicts shifts and additional precipitation expected soon after the New Year’s Eve lull. Residents are advised to keep abreast of updates as weather conditions continue to evolve.
