Record breaking snowfall for Montreal approaching 40cm

The start of the storm on Ile Perrot late Tuesday. As of 7am this morning, I measured 35cm on Ile Perrot. (ValleyWeather Photo)

Winter Storm Warning in effect through noon for Montreal.

Montreal is closing in on 37cm of snow over the last 18 hours or so, a new record, breaking the previous record of 32.2cm in 1993. The result is exactly what you would expect, snow covered roads and a ton of school closings. As a matter of fact just about all the schools, Colleges and Universities have cancelled classes. The school closures combined with self-imposed snow days by many workers, have resulted in very light traffic in Montreal this morning. This has likely saved us from gridlock. There have still been numerous accidents reported, especially on off island highways.

The storm in question is moving across southern Quebec this morning, with the heaviest snow now off to the east of Montreal. Despite the delays and cancellations this morning, we have fared quite well in metro Montreal. The strong winds forecast never really materialized, at least so far, limiting the amount of blowing snow. Such is not the case northeast of Montreal in Quebec City, where winds have gusted to 80km/h. The severe blowing snow has resulted in several road closures.

Here in Montreal, delays are being reported with public transit, but it is still operating. The airport is a different story, with hundreds of flight cancellations, the message is clear, call ahead.

The balance of the day will feature light snow in Montreal, with another 5cm forecast. Winds are expected to increase this afternoon, up to 50km/h, producing areas of blowing snow. Temperatures will be mild today as you dig out, reaching -2C (29F).

Transport Quebec keeping us safe, plowing Highway 40 in Montreal early Tuesday morning. (Transport Quebec Photo)