This week's Montreal weather forecast might be a chilly wake-up call for those dreaming of May flowers. Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement, warning of a low-pressure system that will intensify over the next few days, bringing some serious snow to the city. The agency is advising that residents postpone non-essential travel.
Beginning Wednesday afternoon, Montreal will plunge back into wintry conditions. While the forecast mainly calls for snow, there could be some mixed precipitation early on, including rain. With slippery roads and reduced visibility expected, caution is urged for commuters, especially those who have already switched to summer tires.
Snowfall amounts of up to 20 cm are projected and northeasterly winds are expected to gust up to 60 km/h, which could also mean widespread power outages.
Outlook across Quebec
The Weather Network is warning of potential travel disruptions due to deteriorating road conditions and snow accumulation. A first wave of inclement weather is expected to bring wind and rain mid-week, followed by a secondary low-pressure system brewing in the U.S. Northeast which could see southern Quebec get even heavier precipitation through Thursday.
The situation isn't limited to southern Quebec either. MétéoMédia suggests significant snowfall hitting various parts of the province. The Laurentians may see as much as 25 cm of snow. Meanwhile, strong northeast winds accompanying the system could lead to hazardous conditions in regions like the North Shore and Gaspésie.
From snow to sunshine
In Montreal, expect a few clouds with increasing cloudiness overnight on Tuesday and a low of 4 C. Wednesday will be cloudy with strong east winds gusting up to 60 km/h and a high of 8 C. Overnight, there's a chance of rain or snow with temperatures dropping to zero. Thursday brings snow with temperatures reaching 2 C during the day and dipping to zero at night. Friday continues with snow (or rain) and a high of 4 C, followed by periods of rain at night with a low of 1 C.
Over the weekend, you can expect a mix of sun and cloud, with a high of 10 C during the day and clear skies at night with a low of 1 C. Sunday and the start of next week promise sunnier weather, with highs of 12 C and 14 C respectively during the day, and clear skies at night with lows of up to 1 C.
It might be a frosty week ahead, but at least you can ride out the spring snowstorm knowing that sunnier days are just around the corner.
A map of southern Quebec showing the areas covered by a special weather statement (in grey) ahead of an expected snowstorm in the week of January 23.