Quebec Faces Unwelcome Return Of Snowy Winter Weather

Quebec is seeing a vigorous return of winter weather this week, as significant snowfall and plunging temperatures dominate the forecast across the province. Residents waking up on March 25, 2025, were greeted by a gray sky and scattered snow showers, particularly affecting the central areas of Quebec.

According to Environment Canada, Monday's weather initiated a pattern of intermittent snow, leading to a cumulative snowfall that will affect highways and daily commutes. In Montreal, the persistent gray weather brought temperatures of around 4 degrees Celsius, with light snowfall reported in the region of Outaouais. The central parts of the province are expected to receive about 2 centimeters of snow, with mountainous areas potentially seeing up to 5 centimeters.

Snow-related traffic issues quickly arose as moderate snowfall made roads slippery for many motorists. Reports indicated that several highways were closed, especially on Montreal's north shore due to accidents and hazardous driving conditions. "La neige a causé des maux de tête à plusieurs automobilistes," noted a local traffic report, emphasizing the challenges faced by drivers.

The weather system is rather persistent, and the pattern is not expected to change quickly. More snow is predicted through Tuesday, with Environment Canada stating that "la couverture nuageuse, encore de mise à travers tout le Québec, sera accompagnée mardi par quelques averses de neige." By Wednesday evening, continuous flurries may fall across various regions before tapering off, leaving flurries in the east by Thursday morning.

On Wednesday, temperatures are projected to drop slightly, with more snow in central Quebec, Outaouais, and Gaspésie, without significant accumulation. As the week progresses, however, arctic air settling over Quebec indicates that weather conditions could worsen.

In northern Quebec, the cold is particularly harsh. On March 24, Lac Benoît recorded an alarming temperature of -33.2 °C, showcasing the severity of the weather conditions impacting the northern regions. This type of extreme cold is not unheard of in late March, and predictions are already warning of such lows returning as the week nears its end. Models suggest a resurgence of frigid air masses could lead to temperatures dipping close to -30 °C in some northern areas.

While southern Quebec may see temperatures fluctuating around the freezing point for several days, the region will also likely experience some wintry precipitation. This could include sleet and rain, which may further complicate travel and influence snow accumulation. “On parle de 10 à 15 cm et peut-être un peu plus dans les Laurentides,” meteorologist Kevin Cloutier explained, indicating the potential for significant snow in various northern locales.

As Montreal's residents brace for what feels like a blast from winter in late March, experts noted that this weather might be a precursor to more snow showers heading into the weekend, combined with impending below-normal temperatures due to a stagnating low-pressure system in the region.

Upon reviewing the upcoming weather conditions, it's essential for residents to continue to prepare for fluctuating weather patterns throughout the week. Weather predictions for the weekend indicate that while temperatures will start warming slightly, nighttime lows could still lead to snow accumulation. Therefore, as warmer weather approaches, there is potential for a return of clearing skies, though motorists should keep winter tires on longer than expected due to likely wintry conditions.

This mix of weather features underscores the unpredictability of springtime in Quebec, where the cold can linger long after it seemed to have retreated. As the province transitions into warmer seasons, residents remain aware that instances of extreme temperatures can happen surprisingly late in the year. With snow having returned and traffic disruptions already noted early in the week, Quebec's communities must navigate this winter weather dynamically, remaining hopeful that clearer skies will soon follow.

In summary, Quebec's return to winter weather in late March 2025 highlights both the challenges of transitioning seasons and the unpredictable nature of climate patterns as identified by experts and local authorities. While many look forward to the thaw, they may have to endure a little more snow before spring ultimately takes hold.