Montreal weather is under a severe thunderstorm watch and F1 weekend is gonna be a wet one
After some sauna-like temperatures in the city, the weather forecast is showing a series of downpours en route for the rest of the week and weekend — just as Montreal's Formula 1 Grand Prix festivities kick off.
Environment Canada has issued a severe weather watch for Montreal and surrounding areas with potentially "dangerous thunderstorms" starting Thursday afternoon, and up to 40 millimetres of rainfall expected by Friday morning.
"Amounts could even exceed 50 millimetres within a few hours in some thunderstorms," the weather statement says. "Heavy rain may cause flash flooding and ponding on roads."
At the same time, Environment Canada predicts strong winds, gusting between 20 and 40 kilometres per hour, so make sure all those checkered racing flags that you or your neighbourhood businesses have on display are firmly locked into place. On that note, maybe avoid Old Montreal during these periods.
Meanwhile, temperatures are expected to reach a high of 28 degrees with a humidex of 35.
The doom and gloom continues Friday with a 40% chance of rain in the morning, a few showers expected beginning near noon and the risk of yet another thunderstorm in the afternoon, right in time for Formula 1 practice sessions on Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve.
According to the forecast, Saturday, the day for F1 qualifying sessions, and Sunday, F1 race day, will both be cloudy with a chance of showers and highs ranging from 18 to 21 degrees.
Formula 1 events generally take place rain or shine, and the F1 website says "drivers could be turning to the intermediate and wet tyres across the weekend."
Those spectators with pricier seats on the Grandstand Platine will be in a covered section. But everyone else in the stands will be subject to the elements, separating the fairweather fans from the true blues. Don't forget to bring an umbrella!
That said, keep Environment Canada's advice in mind: "When thunder roars, go indoors!" The federal department responsible for climate and environment notes that lightning kills and injures Canadians every year.
Luckily, there are plenty of F1 events that are set to take place indoors. Check out our list of everything you can do in Montreal during the Grand Prix for more information.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
Environment Canada emergency weather alert.Mike Chaar | MTL Blog
Quebec regions under a severe thunderstorm watch.Environment Canada
Severe thunderstorm watches (yellow) and rainfall warnings (red) in southern Quebec.Environment Canada