A major weather system is affecting Montreal, with significant snowfall and rain expected in the coming days. Environnement Canada has issued winter-storm warnings for western and coastal sectors of Quebec, indicating that residents should prepare for hazardous conditions.
Snow accumulations could reach up to 40 centimeters in some areas of Quebec, while Montreal itself is forecasted to receive between 10 and 25 millimeters of rain. Wind gusts in the city are expected to range from 50 to 70 km/h, contributing to potentially dangerous travel conditions.
In the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region, freezing rain is anticipated, with accumulations of 5 to 10 mm. Temperatures in southern Quebec are projected to climb above 10 °C before a sharp drop, further complicating the weather situation.
According to Environnement Canada, “A total of 20 to 40 centimetres of snow expected for parts of the province.” This significant snowfall is characterized by a rapid transition from snow to rain in southern areas, as noted by meteorologist Guillaume Perron, who stated, “The system will bring an important warmup in southern sectors and that precipitation which begins as snow should rapidly change to rain.”
Forecast estimates for total snow accumulations vary from about 15 cm to as much as 40 cm, highlighting the uncertainty in precise local totals. Hazardous travel conditions are anticipated due to strong winds and heavy precipitation, prompting authorities to advise caution.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the extent of potential snowfall from a subsequent weak system that may bring additional snow later in the week. As forecasts are updated, the timing and exact local totals will continue to be refined.
