On March 16, 2026, a significant winter storm is impacting northern and eastern Quebec, prompting widespread school closures across various regions. The storm has brought heavy snowfall and freezing rain, making travel hazardous and leading to the suspension of classes in several school boards.
Schools in Abitibi-Témiscamingue have been closed, with forecasts predicting up to 40 centimeters of snow in the area. In addition, all schools under the CSS du Fer in Sept-Îles and Gallix have also closed for the day. The CSS de l’Estuaire has similarly shut down all its schools, while the CSS des Rives-du-Saguenay and CSS du Lac-Saint-Jean have suspended classes.
Further closures include the CSS De La Jonquière, which has halted classes in all its establishments, and the CSS du Pays-des-Bleuets, which has also closed all schools for the day. Cégep de St-Félicien and Cégep de Chicoutimi have suspended classes due to the adverse weather conditions and difficult road conditions.
Despite the school closures, many childcare services remain open across various school boards, and staff are encouraged to work remotely where possible. Authorities have warned that road and sidewalk conditions will likely be very challenging, with visibility potentially reduced to almost zero during the storm.
The storm is expected to bring between 15 to 30 centimeters of snow, along with a period of freezing rain, complicating travel and daily activities for residents in the affected areas. As the situation develops, local authorities are advising caution and preparedness for those who must travel.
As of now, the closures are in effect for the day, and updates will be provided as conditions change. The impact of this storm is significant for students and families, disrupting education and daily routines across the region.
