Roller coaster temperature ride forecast for Montreal

The ice along the Ile Perrot shoreline is beginning to thin this week. Much warmer temperatures this weekend, along with at least 10 to 15mm of rain, will allow for significant snow and ice melt in the Montreal region. Water levels will be on the rise, making the ice unstable and dangerous. (Valley Weather)

March and April often feature some of the largest range temperatures over the entire year as winter and spring battle it out. A perfect example has been Montreal over the last 24 hours. The high on Wednesday was 7C (45F) at Trudeau Airport. Overnight a backdoor cold front settled southwest from central Quebec, introducing gusty northeast winds and rapidly dropping temperatures. Montreal has struggled to reach -5C (23F) on Thursday, with mostly cloudy skies and a brisk northeast wind of up to 50km/h. Windchills have been in the low minus teens, currently -15C (5F) as I write.

Weak low pressure will pass well south of Montreal overnight, keeping a light wintry mix primarily across southern New York and New England. Arctic high pressure will remain to our northeast, while a summer-like Bermuda high develops off the southeast US coast.

The two airmasses will duke it out over the next week or so. For Montreal, after a cold overnight and chilly start to Friday, much warmer southwest winds will develop. Low pressure will approach the Great Lakes on Saturday and pass to the west of southern Quebec. The result will be very warm, moist air moving northeast, along with scattered showers. Highs Friday will be very mild, rising above freezing to 6C (43F). Even milder air arrives on Saturday, with a run at 15C (59F) possible.

Slightly cooler air arrives Sunday, before more warm air surges back north on Monday and Tuesday. All this is subject to change as the two airmasses battle each other. One thing looks certain for the short-term, there will be significant snow and ice melt occurring. That will prompt a rise in area rivers and streams. Additionally, the ice will become quite unstable in the Montreal region, and therefore quite dangerous. Best advice would be to stay off it, and monitor waterways if your area is prone to flooding.

As we take a brief look into the middle portion of March, it appears much colder air is set to return, along with some accumulating snow. Don't remove those winter tires just yet.

Partly cloudy skies in Montreal for lunar eclipse early Tuesday

The spectacular full worm moon will turn blood red early Tuesday morning, as a full lunar eclipse occurs here in Montreal. The eclipse will be visible to billions across North America, Australia and Asia. (NASA)

The full worm moon will take on a blood red appearance early Tuesday morning during the full lunar eclipse visible across North America. Here in Montreal, the eclipse will begin at 3:44 AM, becoming partial by 4:50AM and total at 6:27AM. Skies are expected to be partly cloudy in Montreal for viewing, with cold temperatures around -12C (10F). 

Unfortunately here in Montreal, the moon will be close to the horizon during the period of totality, so you will need an elevated, unobstructed location for ideal viewing. Adding to the setting moon, will be the rising sun, set to occur at 6:28AM in Montreal on Tuesday morning. This will effectively put an end to the eclipse at that time. The lunar eclipse occurs as the Earth passes directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow on the moon's surface.

Meteorological Spring

Did you feel Meteorological Spring arrive Sunday? Hard to with temperatures in the minus teens and windchills in the -20s, along with a dusting of fresh snow to start March. Monday morning was cold as well, -19C (-2F) at Trudeau Airport, with -22C (-8F) at my home on Ile Perrot. Southwest winds will develop Monday up to 40km/h, making it feel brisk outside, as temperatures slowly rise to -7C (19F).

The good news is that very warm weather is on our doorstep. The snow we expected late Tuesday will pass well south of Montreal. We can expect fair weather through Thursday, with above freezing temperatures, starting Tuesday at 1C (34F). We have a chance for some rain and freezing rain along a warm front into Friday morning, that may cause some travel concerns. By Friday afternoon into next weekend and beyond, expect well-above normal high temperatures, soaring into the low teens by next weekend, with a forecast high of 12C (54F) by Saturday.

Much colder weather to start March - but it won't last long

Another 10 to 15cm of snow fell across the Montreal region this past Wednesday. With the cold temperatures experienced this winter, most of the snow remains piled high across suburban neighbourhoods. Much warmer weather is on the way once we move past the next 48 hours, which should help begin to melt away the snow and ice.

February is ending on a spring-like note, as temperatures have soared to 9.2C (49F) here on Ile Perrot and just slightly cooler at Trudeau Airport. While today is the warmest day of the year so far, it is well short of the 2024 record high for the date of 13.8C (56F).

The weather has been windy and warm, with just some scattered light showers along a cold front that crossed the region Saturday morning. Frigid air is set to filter southeast across Ontario and southern Quebec over the next few hours, with temperatures falling to morning lows Sunday of  -10C (14F).

Gusty winds of 40-60km/h Saturday afternoon, will slowly dimmish overnight, with light winds expected Sunday. Some flurries are possible both Saturday night and Sunday. Monday morning will be very cold, with lows around -20C (-4F) expected in Montreal.

Conditions will begin to warm quickly as we start March, with some snow possible Tuesday into Wednesday as low pressure moves south of Montreal. Beyond that into the second week of March, we are expecting well-above normal temperatures, with highs in the upper single digits above freezing. Overnight lows will remain milder than normal as well. Good news for those if would like to see the piles of snow and ice begin to melt away.

Taking a brief look back at February, it was a cold month, but with limited precipitation. The coldest low at Trudeau Airport was -21.5C (-6.7F) on the 8th. The temperature remained below freezing on 22 of the 28 days. In terms of precipitation, we measured 31.4cm of snow and 0.2mm of rain, both below normal for the month, with the main storm track passing either south and west of Montreal, or along the Atlantic Coast. The normal snowfall for February is typical closer to 47cm for Montreal.

After 50 Years - Weatheradio Canada will fall silent

A sad day for weather enthusiasts! My first weather radio purchased by my parents in 1978 at Radio Shack on Wellington Street in Verdun for my 12th birthday. After close to 50 years the radio will fall silent on March 16 as Environment and Climate Change Canada ends Weatheradio Canada broadcasts.

Many readers may not be aware of this, but Environment Canada has been operating a Bilingual 24/7 Weather Radio channel that currently broadcasts over 185 VHF transmitters across the country. The service covers nearly 90 percent of Canada providing detailed weather forecasts, observations, marine forecast and most importantly severe weather warnings. The service broadcasts over the airwaves here in Montreal at 162.550 MHz, from the tower located on Mount Royal.

Environment Canada has decided to end the service on March 16, citing the availability for forecast information and other weather services through their app and website. The obvious problem I see, is that information is not always available in all corners of our country by WIFI or mobile phone. The availability for accurate and timely weather warnings is the biggest concern I have. At a time when our weather is changing rapidly, and in many cases becoming more life-threatening at times, I see great value in continuing this service. In the end, delivering the the urgent message associated with dangerous weather to as may Canadians as possible, should be the end goal.

My mobile weather radio, also purchased from Radio Shack in the 1980's, would later be replaced by two separate mobile scanners in the early 2000's and eventually my mobile phone, as digital replaced crystals. I even had a mobile unit installed in my truck. Even with all the new technology, the service will be sadly missed.

I have been a listener for over 40 years, since my parents bought my first weather radio from Radio Shack in 1978. For the first 20 of those years, whether at home or on vacation, listening to that radio was the first thing I did each morning. I also had travel size versions. The radio was never far from me at any point in the day. The unit you see in the top photo also had a tone alarm that would sound in the case of dangerous weather, mainly thunderstorms in the summer or freezing rain in the winter.

Weatheradio Canada first broadcast in Montreal and 9 other cities in 1976, before spreading across the country, with a high of 230 transmitters. There was a significant upgrade to the digital S.A.M.E. (Specific Message Area Encoding) technology in 2004. Originally, the forecasts were actually broadcast by Meteorologists. However in the early 2000's computer generated voices took over. At one point, the service was deemed so important by Environment Canada, they were quoted as saying, "It is as important as having a smoke detector in your home." Apparently not anymore.

While mobile phones and the internet have made information readily available through alternate sources, having this duplication of services, such as weather warnings, would be well worth the continued investment.

On a personal note, Weatheradio Canada is a big reason I have been a weather enthusiast my entire life. The radio taught me lots about meteorology, not to mention being fluently bilingual in weather terms. I'm  also a regular listener to NOAA Weather Radio, which is operated by the National Weather Service from Burlington, Vermont on 162.400 MHz. NOAA operates 1000 transmitters covering all 50 states. Thankfully that option will remain, but only for those located close to the international border.

Others across the rest of Canada who rely on Weatheradio Canada, will need to look elsewhere for their daily forecasts and weather warnings.

Marine forecasts will continue to be broadcast over Canadian Coast Guard Radio at 161.65 MHz in English and 161.75 MHz in French.

Powerful East Coast storm bypasses Montreal

Heavy snow has virtually shut down east coast cities from Washington to Boston. (NYPD Photo)

UPDATE - Tuesday, February 24: The monster Nor'Easter is now pushing into Newfoundland as skies slowly clear across the region. Amounts were beyond impressive, surpassing those of the famous Blizzard of 78. Providence, Rhode Island received a record-breaking 38 inches (96.5cm) of snow in less than 24 hours. To put that into perspective, here in Montreal our seasonal snowfall stands at 168cm (66 inches), but that is since November 1st. This has been a winter of small snowfalls for Montreal, the largest 24-hour snowfall was only 11cm (4.3 inches) on December 10. 

Winds gusted to hurricane-force, over 125km/h across coastal New England. Power was out to over 500,000 across the region. Air travel was greatly affected, with over 11,000 flights cancelled, rippling across North America.

The storm also hit Atlantic Canada late Monday and overnight, with winds topping 100km/h and 25 to 40cm of snow. 

Previous Post: An absolute monster of a storm is moving along the northeast Atlantic Coast Monday morning, producing blizzard conditions from Delaware to Nova Scotia. The central pressure has tumbled down to sub 970mb, making it the equivalent of a Category 2 hurricane. The Nor'Easter is a marvel on satellite, while on the ground, heavy snow and strong winds have closed down the northeast and southern New England.

Here in the St. Lawrence Valley, we remain on the extreme northwest cloud shield of the massive storm. Montreal will experience clouds most of the day, along with a biting northeast wind up to 50km/h. Temperatures will flirt with the freezing mark, but that wind will make it feel raw. Skies will clear briefly Tuesday, before another weather system, this time from the Great Lakes, brings us more snow Wednesday.

Friday nights system produced 6cm of snow officially at Trudeau Airport, while I measured a good 10cm on Ile Perrot.

The storm is a masterpiece on satellite images Monday morning, resembling a hurricane, with the deep 970mb center lying southeast of Long Island, New York. The classic comma shaped storm extends from Nova Scotia to the Bahamas. Montreal remains on the extreme northwest edge, with high clouds and gusty northeast winds being the only weather we will see from this system. (NOAA)

The east coast storm will lift northeast today towards Atlantic Canada offshore waters, while weakening slightly. Heavy snow will continue from New York to Maine, with 40-60cm possible. Less snow is expected in Nova Scotia, with 15-25cm possible. Some locations across the middle Atlantic are already flirting with 50cm (20 inches), including Newark Airport at 45cm (18 inches). The snow has been accompanied by thunder and lightning along the coast.

Schools are closed, travel bans are in effect, thousands of flights have been cancelled from Washington to Boston. Winds with the storm are gusting to hurricane force, in excess of 100km/h at many locations. In addition to the snow and wind, powerful waves and a storm surge are inundating coastal areas with 2-3 feet of water. Over a half million customers are without power across the region. Many states including New York and New Jersey had issued a state of emergency prior to the storms arrival. A travel ban is in effect statewide in Rhode Island,

Another round of snow for Montreal Friday - decent weather for the weekend

The burst of snow expected Friday evening will be similar to that which fell on February 10. The snow will be short-lived, lasting just a few hours, with perhaps 5-10cm expected for Montreal and point south and west. Less is forecast north and east of the city, including Laval. (Valley Weather Photo)

While the weather was relatively tame and mild over the last week in Montreal, the same could not be said for many other parts of North America. A wild low pressure area combined with cold air from northern Canada to produce a windy weather system that spread across the Rockies into the Plains and Prairies, Ohio Valley and Great Lakes. That system is set to bring us a burst of snow Friday evening.

Clouds will increase early Friday as a warm front lifts across the eastern Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Valley. The front will stall to the south of Montreal, with precipitation overrunning it late in the day. Snow will develop by the evening commute and taper off overnight. The event will be similar to one that occurred on February 10. Accumulations will be in the 5 to 7cm range for the Island of Montreal, with 10-15cm from the off-island communities to the southwest, towards Cornwall, Ontario. Lesser amounts are expected northeast of Montreal, with no snow expected as you head towards Quebec City.

For Montreal and points south and west, roads will become snow covered and slippery late this afternoon and tonight with significantly reduced visibility. That includes the 20/401 corridor to Cornwall and the 40/417 highways to Ottawa.

South of Montreal, up to 20cm is possible in upstate New York. Winter Storm warnings and Advisories are in effect for regions south of the border, with a Special Weather Statement in Ontario.

In Montreal, temperatures will warm to -2C (29F) today, before falling back to -8C (18F) overnight. Gusty northeast winds will develop north of the warm front across the St. Lawrence Valley, reaching speeds of 30-50km/h. Those winds combined with falling snow will reduce visibility across southwestern Quebec this evening. 

The weekend will be variable, with partly sunny skies Saturday and perhaps a few flurries Sunday. Temperatures will be seasonable, with highs between -3C (27F) and -5C (23F) and lows of -8C (18F).

Above freezing temperatures finally forecast for Montreal

Snowy scene on St. Joseph Blvd on Ile Perrot late Tuesday, February 10. The quick hitting storm made a mess of the evening commute in Montreal. Heavy snow fell for several hours, with 7-12cm accumulating across the region between 3pm and 9pm. That brought the monthly total up to 12.4cm at Trudeau Airport, with 163cm measured so far this season since November 1, 2025. (Valley Weather Photo)

It was another cold morning in Montreal on Friday, with temperatures dropping to -15C (5F). Today will mark the 28th consecutive day below freezing in the city. There is some hope on the horizon.

Skies will be sunny today, with a high near -5C (23F). A weak clipper system will pass just south of Montréal tonight, producing a few flurries, with perhaps a dusting to 1cm in some locations. The weekend at this time looks sunny, along with warming temperatures. By Sunday we may approach the freezing point.

Even milder air will arrive on southwest winds Monday and Tuesday, along with perhaps a few showers. Highs will be near plus 5C (41F) on both Tuesday and Wednesday. 

To date winter 2025/26 has produced 163cm of snow at Trudeau Airport. The most bewildering statistic from Environment Canada for me, is that only 14cm of that snow officially remains on the ground at Trudeau Airport. Ignoring all the massive piles of snow around the city, I took to my fresh untouched backyard with a yardstick and measured close to 40cm on the ground in several undisturbed spots. I'm sure your backyard has just as much snow if you live anywhere in the metro Montreal region.

By comparison, Ottawa International Airport has measured 171.3cm of snow this winter and is reporting 50cm still on the ground. This is a much more accurate representation of the winter to date, especially considering that we have been below freezing for the last month, with very little melting observed. I question the accuracy or location chosen for the Montreal measurement, as it seems to not be representative of the city wide average

Looking ahead briefly to the end of February, we see colder air returning. While the air does not look frigid, it will certainly be cold enough for snow. There will also be several opportunities for measurable snow through the end of the month. Don't put the shovel away just yet.

Speaking of cold, Thomsen River in the Northwest Territories was -48.6C (-55.5F) on Friday morning, the coldest spot in the country.

Milder weather returns along with more snow for Montreal

Windswept Chemin Duhamel along the Ottawa River in Pincourt on Saturday morning. Strong winds up to 50km/h drifted snow across the frozen river and onto the roadway. The winds also resulted in bitter windchills falling into the minus 30s. Temperatures over the weekend remained cold in the -15C to -25C range for most of southern Quebec. (Valley Weather Photo)

The weather in southern Quebec was frigid over the weekend, as temperatures struggled to reach -15C (5F) both days, along with gusty northwest winds that produced windchill values into the minus 30s. Overnight lows dipped into the middle minus 20s for most locations.

Monday morning is no different as the mercury dipped to -20C (-4F) at Trudeau Airport. Montreal managed a couple of centimetres of snow Friday night, with the monthly total sitting at only 4cm at the Airport, slightly more in other spots around southern Quebec.

Our temperature dropped to -0.7C (31F) at 5am on January 15, and has not risen above since then, a total of 24 days. As a result most of the snow that has fallen since, remains piled around the city. This despite the wacky statistic of snow on the ground that Environment Canada publishes for Trudeau Airport, which shows only 7cm.

Temperatures have remained below freezing for over 3 weeks in southern Quebec. As a result many waterways, including the Ottawa River above where it meets the St. Lawrence River, are nearly frozen clear across. Several residents braved the frigid cold over the weekend to ice fish on the frozen surface. (Valley Weather)

The upcoming week will see a welcome moderation in temperatures, that may see us finally reach the 0C (32F) mark by next weekend. it will be a slow warming trend, and it comes along with snow. A clipper type low will slide across the Great lakes on Tuesday and along the International Border, while strengthening somewhat. A area of steady snow will devlop in the afternoon, producing close to 5cm thought the evening commute in Montreal.

The snow will persist into early Wednesday, with close to 10cm expected for Montreal, perhaps 15cm for some locations. With the snow, we can expect warmer temperatures on southwest winds. After a chilly Monday, -9C (16F), the high Tuesday will be -7C (19F) and finally near normal, -4C (25F) for Wednesday. Overnight lows will remain chilly, either side of -10C (14F).

By the weekend, we may see even milder air arrive in Montreal, but that may come at a price, as we are watching a potential east coast storm. Many details remain, but we may see a more impactful snowfall for some parts of Quebec by Sunday. Right now, the weather looks fair and mild in Montreal for the weekend.

Despite the Groundhog - we can expect another frigid weekend in Montreal

Waiting for early Spring...lonely chairs buried in snow on the edge of the Lake of Two Mountains in Senneville this past weekend. (Valley Weather)

Thursday is National Weatherperson's Day, celebrating the birth of John Jeffries in 1744. Dr. Jeffries was one of the first North American weather observers, keeping a detailed weather diary from 1774 until 1816. This day comes quickly on the heels of Groundhog Day, where we put science aside and trust a half sleeping rodent to predict the weather 6 weeks out. Not an easy task for any of us fully awake weather enthusiasts! 

So with that,  Québec's own Fred la Marmotte, did not see is shadow, and therefore predicts and early Spring. Despite his bold prediction, we are looking at another frigid weekend for Montreal.

Fred la Marmotte in the Gaspe region, has predicted an early Spring for Quebec. I will believe it when I see it, as my crystal ball is a little more cloudy.

Some of the coldest air of the season is set to pour into southern Ontario and Quebec on Friday, behind a clipper system and arctic boundary. The day will begin fairly calm in Montreal, but thickening clouds will lead to light snow by the afternoon hours. The high will reach a chilly -8C (17F), the normal for the date is -5C (23F). The snow will become briefly stead, if not heavy at times into the evening hours as the front passes out region. Accumulations will range from 5cm to perhaps as much as 10cm locally.

Gusty northwest winds between 30-50km/h will develop late in the day Friday, persisting into Saturday. Temperatures we fall behind the front into the minus teens by Saturday morning, with windchill values approaching -30C. The high Saturday will be reached in the overnight hours, with lows by Sunday morning at -22C (-8F). Skies should eventually clear on Saturday, after morning flurries. Sunday will be sunny but cold, with high temperatures around -15C (5F). Temperatures will start to moderate next week.

Despite the week long thaw we had in January, the month still came in below normal here in Montreal. The average temperature at Trudeau Airport was -9.8C (14.4F), 0.6C below normal. Montreal measured 66cm of snow, slightly above the normal of 52cm. February is starting off on a cold note, but we are seeing signs of a milder pattern beginning as early as next week.

Quiet and cold weather on tap for southern Quebec

It is another frigid morning in Montreal on Friday, with windchill values in the -30s. January has been cold, with temperatures below -20C recorded at Trudeau Airport on 8 of the 30 days to date. Montreal has also had at least a trace of snow on 24 of the 30 days this month, making for constant icy driving conditions. (Valley Weather Photo)

High pressure will dominate the weather through the weekend and into next week, with temperatures moderating slowly, but remaining below normal for most of us. Montreal dropped to a chilly -22C (-8F) Friday morning, along with a northerly breeze resulting in windchill values in the -30s. A weak disturbance may set off a few flurries today for Montreal, but minimal accumulations are expected.

Saturday will be sunny and cold, with morning lows around -20C (-4F) and daytime highs close to -12C (10F). On Sunday, a strong Nor'Easter will move northeast in the Atlantic towards the Maritimes. This low will bring near-blizzard conditions along the immediate coast for place like the Outer Banks in North Carolina, Long Island and Cape Cod. The storm will then impact Nova Scotia and parts of New Brunswick with 15-30cm of snow and 80kmh wind gusts.

For southern Québec, the only impacts may be a few high clouds along with a cold damp northeast wind. High temperatures will be around -12C (10F). At this time next week looks fair with slowly warming temperatures. Highs however will remain below freezing as we head into the first week of February. No major storms are on the horizon for Montreal at this time.

The cold this weekend will stretch as far as south Florida and the Gulf of Mexico, with lows close to freezing and even a few snowflakes possible into central parts of the sunshine state.

The current cold snap has pushed snow far south into places that are not accustomed to it, such as Dallas, shown above. More heavy snow is forecast this weekend from the Carolinas to coastal New England. (AccuWeather Photo)

Historic snowstorm for Toronto - less snow but frigid cold, power outages in Montreal

The icy Galipault Bridge from Ile Perrot onto the Island of Montreal on Monday morning. Very cold temperatures and snow are resulting in extremely slippery roadways. There have been numerous accidents reported on Highway 40 in both directions on and off the island due to the ice and snow. (Valley Weather Photo)

The powerful winter storm that has impacted the weather across eastern North America this weekend is now located east of New England over the Atlantic Ocean. The center will move offshore of Atlantic Canada on Monday, while a secondary wave of energy over the Great Lakes slides across northern New York producing more snow for Montreal.

Snow will continue in Montreal on Monday, with another 5-10cm possible. Montreal was always going to be on the extreme northern edge of this system, that combined with the extremely cold air, produce lighter accumulations than many regions located to our south and west.

In southern Ontario, Toronto was hammered with an historic snowfall over a 12-15 hour period. An intense lake effect plume of snow moved northwest into the city centre, dumping 50-60cm of snow Sunday. At Pearson Airport, all operations came to a halt, with all flight cancelled, adding to the thousands already grounded across North America. At the Airport, 46cm fell. This was the most snow on a single day since records began in 1937.

Toronto's Pearson Airport ground to a halt on Sunday, after an record-breaking 46cm of snow fell in just a few hours. Blizzard conditions were reported for more than 8 hours. The city remains closed Monday morning, with hundreds of flights cancelled and transportation crawling. (Ontario Storm Reports)

By comparison, areas away form Lake Ontario received much less, with 10cm at Ottawa and 11cm here in Montreal. Gusty winds in Toronto produce blizzard conditions for over 8 hours. Roads and schools are closed on Monday morning, as that city slowly digs out.

In Montreal the bitter cold lead to an equipment failure at the Hampstead substation, with power out to thousands for 24-48 hours during the intense cold. Warming centres were established, especially in hard-hit areas like Côte St-Luc. As of Monday morning, power remains out to 3500 Hydro-Quebec customers, most here on the Island of Montreal.

Temperatures were bitter over the weekend, with morning lows at my home on Ile Perrot, of -25C (-13F) Saturday morning, and -26C (-15F) on Sunday. Daytime highs struggled into the low minus teens both days. Combined with gusty winds, windchill values plunged into the -30C to -40C range. We are slightly warmer Monday morning in the snow, at -15C (5F). The cold has created very icy services, with numerous accidents occurring in Montreal. 

Freezing rain across the deep south in places like Tennessee, Mississippi and Georgia, produced dangerous travel condtions and has left hundreds of thousand without power. (Tennessee State Police)

Across the border in the US, the storm has produced widespread damage from heavy freezing rain in places like Nashville south into northern Mississippi and Georgia. While further north, 20 to 40cm of snow fell in New York City and Boston, and from the middle Atlantic states into the Ohio Valley and New England. Air and ground travel remains extremely difficult Monday morning, and power is out to nearly 850,000 homes from Texas to Virginia.

Widespread damage has occurred from nearly 25mm (1 inch) of freezing rain that fell in places like northern Mississippi (shown above) and cross the southern US and Middle Atlantic regions. (The Weather Channel)

Frigid weather persists - snowfall warning added for Montreal and Ottawa

A very cold sunset across the frozen Lake of Two Mountains on Friday evening. Temperatures will slowly moderate this week, however we can expect significant snow from a strong winter storm moving north from the US. (Valley Weather Photo)

Snowfall Warning in effect for Montreal, southern Quebec and eastern Ontario.

Widespread winter storm and snowfall warnings are in effect across a large portion of eastern North America, including here in southern Quebec and across most of southern Ontario into Atlantic Canada.

It was a frigid day across southern Quebec on Saturday, with temperatures remaining in the minus 20s for most locations. Morning lows were cold, with -25.1C (-13F) here on Ile Perrot, -25C at Trudeau Airport and -26C (-15F) in Ottawa. Other locations in Quebec were as cold as the minus 30s. A northwest breeze pushed windchill values as cold as -37C (-35F) in Montreal.

Arctic high pressure will remain in place for one more night, before a slow moving winter storm approaches the region from the south. Clear skies Saturday night will allow for an overnight low in Montreal of  -22C (-8F). On Sunday, low pressure will develop in the Mississippi Valley and rapidly deepen as it moves to the middle Atlantic coast and north towards Cape Cod. Secondary troughing over the Great Lakes will help transport deep moisture inland across New England and southern Quebec. Montreal will remain on the northern edge of this powerful Nor'easter, with the heaviest snow expected to fall to our south.

Snow is forecast to spread north and east on Sunday, arriving in Montreal late in the day. The snow may be heavy at times into Monday morning. Temperatures will remain very cold, with an high of -16C (4F) on Sunday. The dry, fluffy snow will be blown around easily by northeast winds up to 40km/h. The wind will also provide bitter windchill values in the St. Lawrence Valley into Monday morning. Snow will persist into Monday, tapering off to flurries during the afternoon.

In terms of accumulations, we can expect 15-20cm from the Ottawa Valley towards Montreal. Less snow is forecast northward into the Laurentian, with perhaps 10-15cm. South towards the US border and into New England anywhere from 20-40cm is possible. Travel will be very poor on Sunday night and Monday. The Monday morning commute in Montreal could be greatly affected.

This is the same storm system that is impacting nearly half the United States with heavy snow, freezing rain and strong winds. The storm has resulted in significant travel delays, with over 13,000 flights already cancelled and roads in poor shape. Widespread power outages are anticipated in parts of the southern US, where 15-25mm of freezing rain is forecast.

Frigid cold weekend for Montreal with more snow

The icy St. Lawrence River as frigid air moves into southern Quebec. The weather will remain very cold well into next week, with the potential for significant snowfall late Sunday into Monday for Montreal.

Extreme Cold Warnings are up for a large portion of Canada and the Northern US, including here in Quebec, but excluding metro Montreal at this time. Bundle up this weekend, protect your hands and face, wear layers and make certain your pets are safe. The extreme cold is especially hard on the the very young and seniors. This is January in Montreal, we have this.

The North American weather map it lit up from coast to coast to coast with weather warnings. Most are related to intense cold and snow squalls in Canada, with heavy snow and freezing rain across the US from New England to Texas.

For Montreal the coldest air of the season will move into southern Ontario and Quebec Friday behind an arctic boundary. That front may trigger more flurries and squalls on Friday afternoon. The boundary will also introduce frigid air to the St. Lawrence Valley. How cold? On Friday morning, North Bay, Ontario is already down to -20C (-4F), with Thunder Bay at -32C (-25F). 

Further west, extreme cold warnings are in effect across Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Every reporting station in Saskatchewan is colder than -30C Friday morning, including -43.3C (-46F) at Uranium City. Windchills are as cold as -50C(-59F).

It will not get that cold in Montreal, but we are looking at falling temperatures and increasing winds for Friday. Our high has been reached for Friday, around -9C (16F), with temperatures falling throughout the day down to morning lows Saturday of -24C (-11F) in the city. Lows wil approach -30C in many off island locations. Gusty west winds of 20-50km/h will result in -30C to -40C windchills values.

SUNDAY SNOWSTORM UPDATE

Winds will ease on Saturday, but the weather will remain very cold, with a high of -19C (-2F). On Sunday, computer guidance continues to shift the US winter storm northward along the Eastern Seaboard, with winter storm watches now up right to the Canadian border. 

What that means for Montreal is snow starting Sunday afternoon and persisting into the Monday morning commute, along with gusty northeast winds, blowing snow and very cold temperatures. Temperatures with the snow will be around -13C (9F). It is still a little early too speculate and storm totals as the system is still evolving, but we are looking at the possibility of more than 10cm here in the city, with much more south and east. Stay tuned!

Snowy and cold forecast for southern Quebec

Crews have been kept busy this January, with snow falling on 18 of the 21 days to date. While daily amounts have been on the light side, it has resulted in 40 to 50cm  falling across the Montreal region This has required almost daily salting and plowing. Roads have been less than ideal and highly variable, with numerous accidents. (Valley Weather Photo)

Snow Squall Watch in effect for Thursday.

Much of southwestern Quebec and Ontario is set to have the coldest air of the season arrive behind a series of arctic boundaries over the next 36 hours. Wednesday evening, an overperforming warm front is delivering a few centimetres of snow to the Montreal region. Roads have become snow covered and icy, with numerous accidents reported, including a major crash on Highway 40 in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue.

Low pressure will travel well northwest of Montreal as the warm front lifts north of the city. Warmer air will briefly arrive overnight and into the first part of Thursday, with highs near -3C (27F). On Thursday, the first cold front arrives in the afternoon, along with increasing southwest winds and occasional snow squalls. Some of the squalls may be briefly intense, with heavy snow and blowing snow. Up to 5cm of fresh is possible in the Montreal region.

Temperatures will drop throughout the day Thursday and into Friday morning, down to -12C (10F). On Friday a secondary arctic front arrives, with the chance for more snow flurries. Skies will be partly cloudy, and it will be cold, with very little temperature rise. Both Thursday and Friday, winds will be gusty from the southwest first, backing to the northwest, 40-70km/h.

Friday night, cold arctic high pressure will settle into the region, with clear skies and frigid temperatures. Overnight lows will drop into the -20s, with windchills in the minus 30's. Saturday will be fair and frigid, with highs no better than -20C (-4C) and dangerous windchill values.

SUNDAY SNOWSTORM?

The big US winter storm that is forecast to move across the deep south and along the eastern seaboard, may impact us after all late Sunday and Monday. Some forecast models are indicating several centimetres of snow for parts of the St. Lawrence Valley, along with gusty northeast winds and bitter cold. Stay tuned for more details as this system develops over the next few days.

Snow squalls and frigid weather for the week ahead

Snow squalls in southern Quebec and especially along the 401 corridor in Ontario, will make for dangerous and highly changeable road conditions Monday and Tuesday. Strong winds and frigid cold return this week, with the chance for more snow. Even colder air arrives by next weekend, with lows in the -20s.

Snow Squall Watch - Cornwall to Montreal. Afternoon and evening snow squalls are possible for Montreal and southern Quebec.

Snow Squall Warning - west of Cornwall to Port Hope - Lake effect snow squalls today, with dangerous travel expected along Highway 401.

Cold from Montreal all the way to Florida and west across the Great lakes will be the big story this week. Several arctic boundaries will introduce progressively colder air this week, along with scattered snow showers and snow squalls. Some of the squalls, especially close to the Great lakes, will be very intense, with blizzard conditions, heavy snow, zero visibility and dangerous windchills.

For Montreal, we can expect light snow today ahead of the main front, as low pressure travels well north of the city. Temperatures will be around -5C (23F). Monday afternoon and evening, the front arrives, accompanied by strong southwest winds up to 70km/h and occasional flurries, with the risk of squalls. Generally less than 5cm is expected, but some locations toward the Ontario border may see as much as 10cm. Strong winds will cause blowing snow and reduced visibility.

Very cold temperatures flood in behind the front, along with strong winds into Tuesday. Lows will drop to -15C (5F) and struggle to -12C (10F) on Tuesday. Windchill values will be in the minus 20s Even colder air arrives by the end of the week, but will will cover that in future posts.

For Ontario, dangerous snow squall are forecast to develop off Lake Ontario an impact the region along the 401 corridor from Cornwall to Port Hope. In this zone 10 to 20cm is possible, with very poor travel conditions. Visibility in 70-90km/h winds will drop to near-zero at times. Travel along the 401 from Montreal is not advised today.

Snow fell as far south as northern Florida over the weekend. Even colder air will spread south over the upcoming week. (Photo: Florida Weather Center)

The squalls are expected to be so intense, that Environment Canada has issued a rare Blizzard Warning for Prince Edward County at the northeast corner of Lake Ontario. Strong winds up to 90km/h, will be accompanied by heavy snow, with 20-40cm possible. Those same conditions will be possible along Interstate 81 south towards Watertown and also east of Lake Huron.

Over the weekend, freezing temperatures and snow occurred as far south as the Florida panhandle. More frigid weather and snow is likely this week and into next weekend, from New England to Florida.

Storm sideswipes Montreal region - impacts Ontario

Unfortunately Thursdays storm across southern Ontario and Quebec resulted in several serious multi-vehicle collisions. The one above involved at least 20 vehicles, east of Mallorytown on eastbound Highway 401. The highway was closed for hours. There were several serious injuries reported as a result. (OPP Photo) 

It has been a difficult winter predicting snow amounts for the Montreal region. Thursday was no different as the storm underperformed across southern Quebec. The system developed very quickly from a combination of factors and then began weakening just as fast. In the end, dry air worked into the the eastern side of the storm and moved over southwestern Quebec basically shutting off the snowfall early. Montreal received 8cm, with Saint Anicet measuring 13cm.

Despite the lower quantities, the combination of gusty winds and dropping temperatures made for very difficult driving conditions on and off the Island of Montreal. There were several major accidents, including closures along Highway 132 on the South Shore, and Highway 40 near Pointe Fortune, after a semi ran into the back of a snowplow.

Despite the lower amounts of snow observed across southern Quebec with the current storm, roads were still treacherous, with several major accidents reported. Roads remain slick Friday morning, with cold temperatures, black ice and packed snow on some neighbourhood streets. Gusty west winds are resulting in blowing snow on off-island highways. (Valley Weather)

In Ontario, the storm was fierce, with very heavy snow, strong winds and frigid temperatures. Near-blizzard conditions around Toronto resulted in the closure of several Highways, including the Don Valley Parkway. The heavy snow spread east and north impacting the Ottawa Valley and 401 corridor towards Cornwall. East of Kingston there was a major multi-vehicle collision, with serious injuries, involving at least 20 vehicles. The highway was closed for hours near Mallorytown. The storm also closed most schools across the GTA and delayed operations at Pearson International. School busses were cancelled across all of eastern Ontario.

Snowfall amounts were very impressive in southern Ontario, with 50cm in Scarborough North, 25 to 30cm in Toronto and 18cm at Ottawa Airport. Other parts of the National Capital Region had close to 30cm. Along the Seaway, 15 to 20cm fell from Cornwall to Kingston.

After the storm, arctic air has settled into the Montreal region, along with snow flurries. The temperature Friday morning was -16C (4F), combined with winds up to 40km/h to produce windchills as cold as -27C (-17F). Friday will be blustery and cold all day, with highs struggling to reach -10C (14F). Temperatures will warm Friday night into Saturday, as another clipper system skirts to our south. Highs will rise all the way to -1C (30F). We may see a few flurries or perhaps some light snow into Saturday. The warming will be brief, as arctic air returns to start the new week.

Storm sweeps across southern Ontario and Quebec

Accidents on Highway 20 near Morgan Road have snarled traffic across Ile Perrot, making for a long commute onto the Island of Montreal Thursday morning.

Snowfall Warning for all of southern Quebec and Ontario for 15-30cm of snow 

As forecast, strong low pressure has developed over western New York and is slowly drifting northeast towards Vermont. A swath of heavy snow has developed north and west of the low, primarily impacting southern Ontario Thursday morning. Lighter snow is falling here in southwestern Quebec.

In Montreal, the rain changed over to light snow later than expected, around 5am Thursday morning. Also a dry slot is developing south of the city, which may end snow for a spell later this morning. As a result, only 2cm has fallen so far, with another 10cm or so on the way. A snowfall warning remains in effect. Regardless of the amount of snow, icy road conditions due to rapidly falling temperatures, and gusty winds are producing very dangerous driving conditions. 

In Montreal, temperatures have fallen from 2C (36F) to -5C (23F) since midnight. There have been numerous accidents in the Montreal region as a result of icy roads, including one along Highway 132 westbound near Highway 20 on the South Shore, involving 10 vehicles. Several cars have also spun out on Highway 20 on the West Island, guaranteeing a slow commute off Ile Perrot and points west. Also, surprise, the REM commuter train is down on the Two Mountains line due to the weather.

In southern Ontario, very heavy snow and strong winds are producing very dangerous driving conditions around the GTA and all along Highway 401. Temperatures have plummeted to -14C (7F) in Toronto, with visibility under 1km in heavy snow and blowing snow., Winds have gusted over 50km/h. The weather warning has been upgraded to orange for Toronto, with close to 30cm forecast.  Most flights are delayed or cancelled at Pearson Airport on Thursday morning.

Light snow will continue into Friday morning in Montreal, with another centimetre or two possible. Winds will be gusty from the northwest 20-40km/h, with lows around -15C (5F). Windchill values will drop into the minus 20s.

Strong arctic front - dropping temperatures and snow for the Montreal region

Snowfall predictions have been difficult all season for the Montreal area, with highly variable temperatures across the region and challenging storm tracks. Monday was no different, as an over performing clipper system brought 7cm to the region. The forecast was for 1-2cm. Another challenging forecast lies ahead for southern Quebec over the next 24 hours. (Valley Weather Photo)

Yellow Snowfall Warning in effect for Southern Quebec.

It is a spring-like 5C (41F) in Montreal on Wednesday morning, along with light rain and massive potholes. A mix of rain and snow fell overnight, with only minor accumulations. We can expect a drastic change in our weather over the next 24 hours, as a strong cold front sinks southeast across Ontario and Quebec. Very cold air will surge in behind that front along with rain changing to snow.

Low pressure is forecast to develop along the sagging cold front late today in western New York. That storm will move northeast into northern Vermont on Thursday and Atlantic Canada by Friday. North and west of the track snow will develop. Models are all over the place with accumulations as this is a rather complex set up. The low end predictions are for 5cm or less, while some higher end estimates are for up to 30cm. All depends on the timing of the cold air arrival and development and track of the storm system.

Most forecasters are going right up the middle with snowfall estimates, so we can expect rain to change to snow after midnight in Montreal. The snow may become heavy at times through Thursday, as the low pressure strengthens and passes to our south. For Montreal and most of southern Quebec, a general 10-15cm is expected. More may fall just north of the city and across upstate New York, with less in the Ottawa Valley and Vermont.

Temperatures will be warm on Wednesday, around 5C (41F), dropping quickly behind the cold front overnight to -5C (23F) by morning. Temperatures will continue to fall Thursday into Friday morning, with morning lows near -12C (10F). Friday will remain blustery and cold, with flurries and steady temperatures.

Winds will be gusty from the southwest Wednesday between 20-40km/h, backing to the west and northwest after midnight, up to 30km/h.

Expect very challenging driving conditions across eastern Ontario and southern Quebec for the morning commute on Thursday, with falling snow, dropping temperatures and snow-packed icy roads.

Colder weather on the horizon for southern Quebec

A quick hitting storm Saturday night left about 10cm of slushy, wet snow across the region. Main roads were in decent shape by Sunday morning, but many neighbourhood streets were snow covered and icy as temperatures fell later in the day. Gusty west winds helped dry roads overnight in time for the Monday morning commute. (Valley Weather)

I mentioned in my last post my concern that Saturday nights storm might be a bust. It was for most of us as both milder and dry air worked into the system. with less of an influence from the coastal storm. Montreal still managed about 10cm of wet snow, with some locations off island receiving as much as 15cm. The precipitation ended quickly and was followed my a mild and partly sunny Sunday, so some melting took place. In the end, it was not much of a storm, with minimal impacts.

The trend of weak systems will persist this week, with the first arriving in a few hours. We can expect periods of light snow Monday, with perhaps a centimetre or two. Warmer southwest winds will develop, with a high near -2C (29F). Temperatures will warm further on Tuesday and Wednesday, with highs above freezing in the 2C to 5C (35F to 40F) range. As a result any scattered precipitation that does occur, will likely be in the form of rain. The parade of weak weather systems continues, with another passing well north of Montreal late Tuesday.

The advertised much colder air arrives by Thursday as a strong cold front will open the door to arctic air pooling to our north. The front will be accompanied by a burst of snow and strong winds either late Wednesday or early Thursday. Highs on Thursday will be chilly, around -10C (14F), along with gusty winds. The cold will persist into next weekend.

At this time, no major storms are on the horizon for Montreal. A coastal system on Thursday or Friday should remain well south and east of southern Quebec. That may change but for now the weather should remain dry and cold for Montreal into next weekend.

Snowfall warning posted for Montreal and southern Quebec

A quick moving storm system will give Montreal 10-15cm of wet snow late Saturday evening into early Sunday morning. Some rain may mix in along and south of the St. Lawrence Valley. Expect low visibility in heavy snow Saturday evening, along with snow covered and slippery roads.

Snowfall Warning posted for metro Montreal

A snowfall warning has been issued by Environment Canada for most of southwestern Quebec including metro Montreal. This is a rather complex system, and the bust potential is higher than I like. Two areas of low pressure are moving towards the region. There remains plenty of mild air in place, and that will likely lead to several precipitation types occurring over the Montreal region.

The good news is this is a fast moving system and the bulk of the precipitation should occur overnight, ending early Sunday.

Low pressure over Minnesota will move across the Great Lakes and close to Montreal on Sunday. Meanwhile a second area of low pressure will develop and move along the Atlantic coast towards New England.

The snow should start early this evening and could be heavy at times. Expect a wet snow for most regions. The snow will likely mix with rain and even some pockets of freezing rain along and south of the St. Lawrence River. At this time, accumulations should settle into the 10-15cm range for Montreal, 5-10cm south of the city and close to 20cm across the Laurentians and North Shore.

Temperatures are rather mild Saturday around 1C (34F), but should drop below freezing early this evening as the snow starts. Warmer air will work in from the south overnight, with temperatures rising back above freezing to 2C (36F) by morning. On Sunday expect flurries as the storms pull to our east and a cold front slides across the region. Winds will also become gusty, in the 30-60km/h range along with falling temperatures back below freeing to -2C (29F) by late afternoon.

The week ahead looks quite unsettled once again, with a mixed precipitation and eventually much colder temperatures by the end of the week.

On Friday, Montreal managed a high of 9C (49F) late in the evening, shy of the record of 11.3C (53F) set back in 2008. It was a wet and windy day, with gusts to 75km/h at Trudeau Airport, along with 15.5mm of rain. I measured 16.5mm here on Ile Perrot.

Warm & wet Friday followed by a snowy weekend for Montreal

With close to 15cm of snow falling since the New Year started, the City of Montreal launched it's third snow loading campaign of the season earlier this week. Over 3000 workers and 2500 pieces of equipment are clearing the snowbanks from 11,000 kilometres of city streets. You can get more information at the 311 Montreal app.

As promised it has been an active weather week across southern Quebec. Since Sunday, close to 10cm of new snow has fallen in and around the city. The snow has mostly been of the nuisance variety, requiring more salt than plowing. Roads have been sloppy and with the warming temperatures, potholes are everywhere, some big enough to swallow your tires.

Thursday managed a warm high of 3C (38F) for Montreal despite the cloud cover and misty conditions. Friday will be warm as well, along with increasing southwest winds, that may reach 70km/h by the supper hour. Low pressure travelling well north of Montreal, will allow for highs to reach 7C to as warm as 10C (45 to 50F) across southern Quebec by late Friday. With temperatures well above freezing, we can expect rain to develop around midday along a frontal boundary. The rain will taper to showers in the evening. Gusty southwest and eventually west winds will reach between 30-50km/h increasing up to 70km/h late Friday.

Enough colder air returns for temperatures to drop to the freezing point overnight into Saturday morning. This will set the stage for the next system that will have a more wintry edge to it. Low pressure will move across the Great Lakes and begin to weaken Saturday night, as a secondary low develops over southern New England. That low will reestablish enough cold air here in the St. Lawrence Valley allowing all precipitation to fall mainly as snow, with perhaps some rain or freezing rain mixing in near the international border. 

The snow should start Saturday evening tapering off late Sunday. At this time, some models are showing a good 10cm for the Montreal region, but that could easily reach 15cm for some locations.

Conditions should improve for Monday along with slightly colder temperatures and highs near -2C (29F0. More unsettled weather and snow returns by Tuesday. 

Active weather week ahead for southern Quebec

The storms have not been large this winter, but frequent smaller snowfalls and frigid cold temperatures have managed to keep roads slippery and unpredictable, with many accidents occurring. This week will be challenging on the roads, with several storms impacting the province. (Transport Quebec)

We have an active weather week ahead for southern Quebec, with three separate systems impacting the region. Arctic high pressure to the north has been maintaining frigid air over the region since New Year's Eve. We will start to see a significant moderation in temperatures this week, but not before some wintry precipitation.

A weak clipper type system will pas southwest of Montreal Monday afternoon, producing light snow. As much as 5cm may fall, especially the closer you get to the Ontario, New York state borders. Temperatures will be cold in Montreal Monday, struggling to reach -12C (10F) along with light northerly winds.

A common scene on Ile Perrot this winter, with roads often snow covered from frequent smaller storms. (Valley Weather) 

A second stronger storm system will develop near Chicago on Tuesday and pass south of Montreal. This system will have more moisture to work with, so we are looking at flurries Tuesday afternoon, developing into a steady snow Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. At this time, we are looking at a good 10cm of snow for Montreal. The Wednesday morning commute could be difficult across the region.

The third storm this week will arrive late Thursday. This low pressure will track well north and west of the St. Lawrence Valley, allowing for a surge of very mild air into Montreal. Temperatures will rise well above freezing, possible as warm as 7C (45F) by Friday. As a result, the bulk of any precipitation would fall as rain, with perhaps a little freezing rain at the onset and flurries on the backside late Saturday or Sunday.

Temperatures as mentioned will warm to well above normal values for at least three days, with overnight lows above freezing Friday night. By Sunday, a cold front will move across the region, bringing us back to reality for mid January. Highs will fall back below freezing at -1C (30F) Sunday, with even colder air arriving next week.

Frigid start to 2026 in Montreal - warmer weather on the way

The frozen locks in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue on Saturday morning. The New Year has started off frigid, with some of the coldest air in the last two years over southern Quebec. (Valley Weather)

Happy New Year! 

It has certainly been a very cold start to 2026 across southern Quebec, in fact some of the coldest temperatures in the last two years. The overnight low at Trudeau Airport on Friday morning was -24.8C (-12.6F). In fact you have to go back to February 3 and 4, 2023 to find a colder temperature. The low temperature was a wee bit of a surprise, but that happens in the winter, when you have ideal radiational cooling, light winds, clear skies and fresh snowpack. The coldest low in all of 2025 at Trudeau Airport was -21.8C on February 2. Other parts of southern Quebec were even colder Friday morning, with -29.2 (-20.6F) recorded in Sherbrooke.

A fast-moving clipper system from the Great Lakes dumped a quick 10cm of snow on southern Quebec to ring in the New Year. By morning skies cleared leaving us with frigid temperatures and gusty winds. (Valley Weather Photo)

The cold followed yet another clipper system, the brought around 10cm of snow to southern Quebec New Year's Eve into the start of 2026. That storm deepened as it moved east of Montreal, producing heavy snow and blowing snow in eastern Quebec, with over 30cm across the Gaspe region.

The good news is there is a significant pattern change expected for the upcoming week. Before that, we can expect at least two more very cold nights. Some flurries occurred Saturday morning and a few more are possible on Sunday. High temperatures will struggle to reach -10C (14F) through Monday, with overnight lows close to -20C (-4F).

A stronger system arrives mid week, with some snow forecast. Behind that system, a pronounced southwest flow will develop, with warm and moist air arriving from the Gulf of Mexico by Thursday. The warmer air will be accompanied by a rain and snow mix, changing to all rain by Friday, as temperatures rise to a warm plus 5C (41F). Specific amounts, temperatures and timing will be fine tuned as the week moves along. Enjoy the warm weather as all indications are that the weather will turn cold again by the end of next weekend. After all it is January in Montreal!

The 28th Anniversary of the Ice Storm of 1998

Top: The view from my home in Verdun. Middle: Help would arrive from numerous states and provinces. Finally, over 16,000 Canadian Armed Forces troops would help in the relief efforts, remaining on the ground across the region for weeks. 

UPDATED January 3, 2026: This week marks the start of the great ice storm of 1998. Over a one week period, close to 100mm of freezing rain nearly destroyed the power grid here in southern Quebec and eastern Ontario. Widespread damage occurred, along with the deaths of at least 30 people. The complete story can be found here at The Suburban.