What role did the weather play in the Kennedy assassination?

The front page of  The Montreal Gazette from Saturday, November 23, 1963.

Today marks the 50th anniversary of the death of President John F. Kennedy, assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald in Dallas, Texas on Friday, November 22, 1963. There was a chance that the horrific events of  that day might not have happened at all had the weather forecast been right. The day was grey and gloomy as the President arrived at the Airport in Dallas earlier that morning. Weather records indicate that 0.06" of rain had fallen with more forecast for the day. This would likely mean a plexiglass bubble would have been used on the Presidents 1961 midnight blue Lincoln Convertible to keep him and the First Lady dry. Unfortunately as the motorcade was set to leave for the cross town journey at 11:50am the weather turned bright and sunny and even warm for late November. The mercury at Love Field in Dallas would reach 70F (21C) after a cool overnight low of 55F (13C). Other sources I checked had the overnight lows as cool as the 40's. But the warm Texas sun and southerly winds between 15-30mph would push temperatures up and with the unexpected sunshine, the President decided not to go with the plexiglas covering. Shots would ring out at Dealey Plaza at 12:30pm killing the 35th President of the United States and seriously injuring Texas Governor John Connally.

By all accounts the 60's were a turbulent decade that seemed to start that fateful day back in 1963. The death of  JFK greatly shocked and saddened Americans and Canadians alike including my mother, who was 33 at the time and decided to keep scrapbooks of every news clipping surrounding the assassination and aftermath. The books she kept were a wealth of information when I decided to take a peek through them somewhere around my 10th birthday. I actually read each and every article, sparking my interest in newspapers. It is hard to believe 50 years has passed and yet the pain and loss continue for many, as well as the questions and theories as to how it all played out. One thing was certain, the world lost a courageous leader that day, far too early.

Welcome to winter - snow by Sunday in Montreal

Well it really feels like mid-winter this morning in Montreal and clear across the country. Temperatures this morning are in the -7C to -10C range across the metro region. Thankfully the wind has finally dropped off after two days of gusts over 50km/h. It will be sunny today but chilly with highs only around 0C for Montreal. A frontal system will approach the region Friday with a warm front crossing southern Quebec. The front will produce some showers and slightly milder highs of 4C. By the weekend a strong arctic cold front will cross Ontario and Quebec with the coldest air of the season arriving by Sunday. The cold air will be accompanied by snow squalls and wind with driving conditions likely being very winter like by Sunday from the Great Lakes into Montreal. High temperatures by Sunday will be no better than -3. More details will follow on that scenario as the event draws closer, but prepare for winter driving now.

Maggie the dog survived 30 hours buried in the rubble after the Washington, Illinois tornado on Sunday. (TWC Photo)

TORNADO SURVIVOR STORY
By now most of my regular readers of this blog know how much I love dogs. I often feature or speak of my little 22 pound Terrier rescue Bella, who actually saved me. She is a gem who would give her life to save mine, that I have no doubt. Over the weekend a series of just devastating tornadoes swept across the upper Midwest US from Illinois to Kentucky. Some of the most destructive damage was done in Washington, Illinois. One of the victims, John Byler Dann, survived the fierce EF-4 storm with his four young children in a safe room in their 5 year old home in Washington. The house was all but destroyed but the family survived, all but their 11 year old family dog Maggie, or so they thought. Nearly 30 hours later, in the rubble that was once their home, they found Maggie, wrapped in a carpet with a displaced hip, but otherwise alive. It is just a tremendous story of  the will to survive along with just how much joy a dog brings to our lives. You can read the entire story with photos here at The Weather Channel.

Massive late season tornadoes hit Midwest

A house blocks a road in Kokomo, Indiana after a tornado on Sunday. AP Photo.

A strong storm system moved into northeast Ontario overnight trailing a potent cold front that has caused widespread damage. The front generated some rare November severe weather on Sunday, with 81 tornadoes reported in six US states. Included in those storms was a likely EF-4 tornado capable of winds approaching 200 mph. That storm leveled the town of Washington, Illinois, and with other storms, claimed six lives and injured hundreds more. It was the first EF-4 tornado ever recorded in Illinois in November. The late season thunderstorms also produced major damage from Ontario and Michigan into Indiana and Kentucky. This morning the thunderstorms have weakened but the wind continues. Strong gusts along and behind the cold front could reach 80km/h in metro Montreal. The wind has knocked out power to nearly 20,000 Quebec homes.

The damage is unimaginable and complete in Washington, Illinois after a likley EF-4 tornado on Sunday afternoon. AP Photo.

The cold front is ushering in much cooler air with temperatures in Montreal falling from 15C at 4am this morning down to 6C by this afternoon. The wind will ease gradually overnight tonight as the storm pulls into central Quebec. About 15mm of rain has fallen since late Sunday here on L'Ile Perrot.

High Winds expected for St. Lawrence Valley

Strong low pressure will move from the Great Lakes today into southern Quebec overnight. An area of very strong winds will develop by midnight tonight and last a good 12 hours for Montreal. Winds of 30-50km/h will develop today ahead of a cold front associated with the storm. Those winds will increase to 50-90km/h tonight and into Monday morning with some gusts to 100km/h possible along the north shore of Lake Ontario. High Wind Warnings are in place from the southwest St. Lawrence Valley towards southwest Ontario as well as the Richelieu Valley of southern Quebec. They may be extended later today into metro Montreal. Heavy rain will also develop with the frontal passage with 15-25mm possible along with a rubble of thunder. Highs today will be warm around 13C (55F) and remain steady overnight before falling on Monday to around 5C (41F) by late in the day. It will be windy and cold Monday night with lows below freeing and a few flurries in Montreal. The cooler air is here for some time with snow even possible by next Saturday.

Warm & windy weekend for Montreal

Enjoy this final shot of warm air for the year as the forecast looks cold beyond next Tuesday right to the end of 2013. We have another surge of warm air from the south today with highs up to 10C (50F) in Montreal. Winds will be lighter than they have been this week, so it will be quite pleasant outdoors. The weekend looks great with mild air well established pushing temperatures unto the low teens Saturday and Sunday. It should remain dry for most of the weekend. The leading edge of cloud cover from a strengthening Great Lakes storm will not arrive until late Sunday.

That storm will move into Quebec on Monday with a very windy and rainy day in the south and turning colder with snow in the central regions. Rainfall may be in excess of 25mm here in Montreal along with winds easily over 50km/h. That will be followed by and Arctic front introducing the coldest air thus far this season. Highs for the balance of next week will remain below freezing with some flurries. Low temperatures will drop to as cold as -10C in southern Quebec. My suggestion is that you wrap up outdoor preparations for winter this weekend, get those snow tires on and put the patio furniture away. This may well be the last real nice warm weekend for some time.

Desperate for help in the Phillipines

While aid continues to pour into the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan, the situation on the ground remains desperate. Bodies and debris are hindering efforts to distribute the relief and many have gone days without food and water. The US already has troops on the ground and Canada has deployed our DART team which specializes in helping after major disasters. The last time the team was deployed was to Haiti after the 2010 earthquake. A Canadian Forces C-17 left Trenton early this week with about 50 of the 200 member team. The rest are following with more supplies and equipment. The DART team has four specific areas of specialty, basic medical care, water purification, infrastructure repair and communications. The death toll currently stands at 2200 but as many as 10,000 are feared dead, trapped in the rubble. Please help if you can, relief agencies in Canada say they need financial help the most so they can allocate the funds quickly. The Federal Government will match donations made in Canada until December 8. You can click on the Red Cross logo above right to donate quickly and safely.

Numerous injuries occurred yesterday in snow squalls near Barrie, Ontario. CTV News.

COLD MONTREAL
We have been sent into mid-winter conditions this morning with lows at -8C and windchills down to -13C currently on L'Ile Perrot. It will be cold today with highs only near -1C, but dry with some sunshine. Flurries are possible as well especially away from the city. Yesterday was an icy commute for many in Ontario and Quebec, the first of the year with light snow and icy patches leading to accidents. Please slow down as winter driving is here and get those tires on. Snow, as much as 10cm, also fell around the Great Lakes with Highway 400 north of Toronto towards Barrie closed for a time yesterday after several multiple vehicle crashes. It will warm up to end the week with temperatures into the low teens on the weekend before another arctic surge next week. Rain is likely this weekend from both a warm front and the trailing cold front by Monday night.

Take time to Remember

My father told me from a very young age just how important it was to wear a Poppy and observe a moment of silence on November 11 to pay respect to those who fought and continue to protect our rights and freedoms. It is not taken lightly in my home as I am fully aware of how great Canada is and how much freedom we enjoy as a result of the many who died in the terrible wars of our past. It seems so easy to do, simply wear a poppy and say thank you. As per usual it will be a chilly and blustery day in Ottawa and Montreal for the ceremonies which start at 10:30 am at various locations including Parliament Hill and here in Montreal on the McGill Campus. Skies will be mostly cloudy with temperatures around 3C and a biting west wind.

That wind and cloud cover will be a hint of a strong cold front in the Great Lakes this morning that will enter the St. Lawrence Valley early this afternoon. Showers and strong winds will transition into some snow flurries after dark this evening. Wide areas of southwest Ontario and portions of Quebec, north of Montreal have snow squall watches in effect. Up to 10cm of snow is possible in the most persistent squalls, especially south and east of Lake Huron. In Montreal light rain will mix with snow before ending by midnight. It will turn windy and cold tonight with lows of -5C. Keep this in mind if driving this evening, there will likely be icy spots around. The balance of the week will be fair and dry with moderating temperatures. Highs will not making it above 0C on Tuesday, but should warm to 6 or 7C by Friday.

TYPHOON HAIYAN
One of the strongest storms ever to hit land on earth is weakening over Vietnam this morning after nearly leveling portions of the Philippines on Friday. Haiyan produced winds over 200mph with a storm surge over 20 feet high across the southern island nation. Tsunami like waves destroyed entire villages and most of Tacloban City. Relief efforts our underway but the scope of the disaster and the loss of infrastructure is making it very difficult. The death toll is at 1200 but estimates are that it could reach over 10,000. The Canadian Government is already committed $5 million in relief aid and is matching donations made to relief agencies. Please help if you can at redcross.ca

Cold weekend with some snow for Quebec

Chibougamau: Snow fell in portions of central Quebec on Thursday with more expected this weekend.

Winter is on our doorstep this morning as snow is falling in portions of Quebec and Ontario as well as western Canada. Cold air is pretty well established across the country with the exception of both coasts. Montreal is currently 1C (33F) and that will likely be the high today perhaps a degree warmer. Clouds will dominate along with a stray snowflake or two. Heavier bursts of snow have fallen across central Quebec with Chibougamau reporting several centimetres along with cold temperatures. That portion of Quebec along with the regions just north of Montreal including Tremblant will see more snow this weekend as a clipper system moves from the Prairies across Ontario. Another 5cm of snow is expected this weekend from late Saturday into Sunday. After a dry day today Montreal can expect clouds to increase Saturday morning followed by rain and snow showers. It will be cold Saturday but warm slightly Sunday. An arctic front will cross the region late Monday with a burst of heavier precipitation that could be in the form of snow. The balance of next week looks dry and cold at this time.

A spectacular image of  the well defined eye of  Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) making landfall south of Manilla in the Philippines late yesterday.

SUPER TYPHOON HAIYAN
Quite possibly the strongest storm ever on this planet is racing across the Philippines this morning. Haiyan or Yolanda as it is called locally, is one of the strongest storms ever observed at landfall on the planet. This morning the storms well defined center core is reporting 195 mph winds with gusts to 235mph (Category 5). A tremendous storm surge has flooded coastal regions with widespread destruction reported. Nearly 1 million were evacuated from the storms path. So far 4 deaths have been reported but it is very early in the aftermath with Haiyan still affecting portions of the country and communications down.

Swift moving Typhoon Haiyan has produced a major storm surge such as this one in the Albay region. (CTV NEWS)

Cold weather returns to Montreal - snow next week?

The back edge of a cold front is nearly through Montreal this morning with winds increasing out of the southwest and light rain falling. About 5mm of rain fell since late Wednesday with just a few more sprinkles expected. Skies will slowly clear out today with gusty winds up to 60km/h. The high was reached in the wee hours this morning at nearly 15C (59F), we currently sit at 11C and will drop to 4C by late this afternoon. Look for lows around -1C tonight with perhaps a stray snowflake. The weekend at this time from Friday to Sunday looks quite variable with colder temperatures and the chance of some rain or snow showers late Saturday. There may be more snow by next Tuesday as colder air filters into the east with temperatures running well below normal. Any precipitation at this time would be light, but it could be snow. Stay tuned!

Calm and cold Monday

Hydro crews remove a tree from a crushed car in Montreal on Saturday. (CTV)

It is the coldest morning of the season so far in Montreal with -6C at the Airport and -5C here on L'Ile Perrot. I twill be a calm, dry day after the major windstorm on Friday. Look for sunshine through Wednesday along with a gradual warming trend. Highs today will be only around 2 or 3C (35-40F) with lows back well below freezing tonight. It will warm to 8C (48F) on Tuesday.

It took the better part of the weekend along with utility crews from Vermont and New Brunswick for all the power to be restored after that wild wind on Friday put over half a million Ontario and Quebec homes in the dark. Gusts out of the southwest ahead of a cold front reached 100-110km/h (60-65 mph) from Lake Ontario towards northern Maine. Hundreds of thousands of Quebec homes and businesses were plunged into the dark after trees fell on power lines and even some power poles came down. Damage was widespread with many trees falling on homes and cars, damage to roofs and other infrastructure being reported. Sadly one tree crushed a woman in her car in Port Colborne, Ontario.

Meanwhile winter is well established across western Canada with portions of Alberta and Saskatchewan reporting 10-30cm of snow on the ground. This morning temperatures are very cold with blowing snow reported in both Regina and Saskatoon. Edmonton is -9C after 10cm of snow and Calagry is -6C. Over 30cm fell in Red Deer with travel very poor over the weekend. It will remain cold this week.

Numerous accidents were reported along Highway 2 in Alberta after heavy snow and strong winds this past weekend.  Get ready now folks across the rest of Canada and slow down to avoid this. We all have the power.(Alberta RCMP)

Fierce winds pound province

Strong winds generated by a powerful storm produced lots of damage in southern Quebec today. The low with a central pressure of 962mb, equivalent to a category two hurricane, moved from the Great Lakes towards Ottawa. Winds have gusted between 90-100km/h in Montreal since the noon hour. Widespread damage has been reported with numerous trees down some on cars and power out to over 300,000 homes according to Hydro Quebec. Thousands more are without power in Ontario and New York. One fatality was reported near Port Colborne after a tree fell on a motorist. Warnings remain in effect with winds expected to drop after midnight. The images below are of a tree down on a car in NDG as well as waves being whipped up on the St. Lawrence River in Lachine.



- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

High Wind Warnings

High wind warnings have been posted for the entire region including metro Montreal, the St. Lawrence Valley, Eastern Ontario and northern New England & NY. Winds ahead of a strong cold front and strengthening fall storm will increase out of the southwest to 100km/h (60 mph) in gusts on Friday. Winds of this strength could cause damage as well as power outages. Rain continues this Halloween night with 14mm so far today on L'Ile Perrot. More showers tonight and Friday with warm air pouring into the region. Highs could reach 16C Friday. Colder air will rapidly move in behind the storm over the weekend with flurries possible.

Scarey Halloween forecast

The 2013 World Series Champion Boston Red Sox celebrate last night along with all of us across Red Sox Nation.

First of all this morning, thank you, thank you, thank you to the Boston Red Sox. What a run from last to first. After not having won a World Series title since 1918, they have now won three since 2004. I am glad they took this time to shake off the curse. What a thrilling team to watch this year, the cardiac kids, never say die, from last in 2012 to champs in 2013.

HALLOWEEN 2013
It is not shaping up to be a great forecast for Montreal and most of us here in the east for Halloween tonight. Strong low pressure has moved from the central plains towards the Great Lakes while intensifying. This storm will lift a warm front across Montreal and southern Quebec tonight with lots of showers and rain likely. It won`t be a washout but it will be wet most of the time. The rain should get going by noon today. The only good news is that is will be much milder, close to 12C today and strengthening southwest winds. It will remain mild tonight and downright warm on Friday, as the warm front clears the region. Temperatures will rise to nearly 16C (61F) on Friday. As this storm strengthens to a 972mb low, it will move across the Ottawa Valley, with a strong cold front trailing behind. Winds on Friday will increase to strong across the St. Lawrence Valley with gusts likely to 100km/h. Wind Warnings have been issued along the US side of the Valley, and I expect they will be moved north and east into Montreal and our southwest regions. After a mild and windy Friday the weekend looks much cooler with showers and perhaps a few flurries by late Saturday behind the storm.

Remember to put your clocks back 1 hour on Saturday night.
Happy Halloween...be safe.

Boston Strong!

Coldest night of the season

Snow and cold greeted Calgary on Sunday after highs of nearly 20C on Friday. Over 10cm of snow fell on southern Alberta. (CTV)

The growing season will come to an end tonight as the coldest air mass of the fall settles into Ontario and Quebec. L'Ile Perrot this morning is wet with showers around and chilly 5C temperatures.Out west temperatures are as cold as -10C in Alberta and Saskatchewan with snow on the ground. Over the weekend a strong storm moved from Alberta into Montana with an area of heavy snow. Over 20cm was reported in Bow Valley with as much as 10cm in Calgary. This storm is diving south into the US plains with snow and cold temperatures. Some of that cold air will filter into our regions tonight after some showers and windy conditions today. Look for lows to be as cold as -5C in Montreal, but all the way below -10C in the Laurentians and Townships.

Skies will be clear tonight but clouds will be on the increase late Tuesday and Wednesday as that US storm starts to move northeast towards the Great Lakes. It will push an area of showers and much milder air into the region by Halloween. At this time Halloween looks wet but warm in Montreal for tricks and treats. I am hopeful the heaviest of the rain will hold off until after the kids return home. Temperatures will be near or above 10C (50F) on Halloween night.

It also snowed in the east this weekend with the observers at the Mount Washington Observatory in New Hampshire sending out a clear message to all.

Cold - rainy weekend for Montreal

Low pressure is moving from Lake Superior across Ontario and into southern Quebec today. In advance of the system cold rain and snow showers have overspread the region this morning. It is very chilly and raw here on L'Ile Perrot with about 1mm of rain since 7am. Current temperatures are 4C (39F) at my home. You don't have to go far north to have snow falling. Transport Quebec traffic cameras from the Laurentian Autoroute as close as St. Jerome show snow accumulating on the roadsides. Some areas of southern Quebec may see as much as 10cm of wet snow today. The system is also expected to produce strong winds later today. Winds will be 40-70km/h with gusts as high as 90km/h along the shores of Lake Ontario. Wind warnings have been posted on both the Canadian and US shores. Temperatures today will do no better than 6C (43F) in Montreal. Tonight the precipitation will continue with a windy and cold overnight low of 5C (41F). Montreal will stay at 5C on Sunday with more showers.

As with the last storm that came across the Great Lakes this past Thursday, some regions will see lake effect snow once again later tonight and on Sunday. On Thursday, 10-15cm of wet snow fell in places like Barrie, and Flesherton, Ontario (photos above & below) with roads snow covered and icy. Snow also fell in Ohio and western New York. As I have already said this week, now is the time to get ready.

Cold & unsettled for Montreal

Beautiful Fleming Mill on the shores of the St. Lawrence River in LaSalle on Wednesday. (ValleyWX Pic) 

Cold air is well established in Ontario and Quebec this morning with -1C (30F) here on L'Ile Perrot with a general frost. Frost and below freezing temperatures are widespread across southern Ontario and Quebec including -3C in Ottawa. Some icy spots are being reported on bridges and elevated surfaces so begin to sharpen those winter driving skills.

SNOW TIRES
As always my snow tires went on yesterday, before Halloween. During the fall of 1992 I was working for the Gazette in Lorraine north of Montreal, and got caught in a November 1 snowstorm with the wrong tires. It was terrible and since that day I always put them on before Halloween. Actually most experts will tell you that under 7C (45F), regular tires begin to lose grip. So snow or not it is a good idea to start thinking about the change. Of course you do not have to have them installed until December 15 by law, but that to me is ridiculously late.

Some early snow tire customers including my Saturn (in stall 1) at Gordons Goodyear on Cavendish and St. Jacques Wednesday morning. Time to do it and avoid the rush.

Speaking of snow, several centimetres of lake effect snow has fallen across the lee of Georgian Bay near Barrie this morning. Some icy spots on bridges and roads are causing isolated travel issues. The precipitation should change over to showers later this morning. The weather in Montreal will remain unsettled and cold right up to Halloween. A series of fronts will deliver lots of clouds with occasional showers starting late this afternoon and lasting well into early next week. Temperatures will be cold with highs of around 7C (45F) and lows near 0C. It will be even colder next week with overnight lows below freezing for Montreal. Some snowflakes are even likely in the lower elevations with perhaps a coating to a few centimetres in the mountains of the Townships, Vermont and New York.

Colder weather with a snowflake or two by weeks end

A warmer and windy Monday is on tap for Montreal and the St. Lawrence Valley as a warm front slowly lifts from southern Ontario into southern Quebec today. We start the day on the cold side at 2C (36F) here on L'Ile Perrot. There was even some spotty frost overnight. As the front comes north freezing drizzle is being reported in the Adirondacks of New York, certainly a sign of things to come.

The warm front comes into Montreal mid morning, with clouds rapidly increase along with showers. Gusty southwest winds are also likely later today. Tonight a cold front will bring more showers along with much colder air. After a high of 15C (60F) today, perhaps our last warm day for some time, lows will drop to 10C (50F) tonight. On Tuesday temperatures will remain steady or even fall a degree or two. The balance of the week looks unsettled with showers and perhaps snow flurries, windy and much colder with lows near freezing and high around 7C (45F).

Partial clearing for a partial lunar eclipse

It has been slowly cooling down this week with temperatures finally acting like October. Add to that about 17mm of rain in the last day or so and it actually feels like fall. It appears at least for the short term that we have turned the corner with much cooler weather now expected into next week. As a matter of fact looking ahead into early November it looks like much below normal temperatures with perhaps some snowflakes by Halloween, but that is way out there. To start with this morning, we have rain ending followed by partial clearing here in Montreal and across the St. Lawrence Valley. That should allow us to view the partial lunar eclipse of the full Hunter moon this evening. The eclipse will peak around 7:50 ET and last several hours. It will only be partial but still worth a peek. Temperatures today will remain where they are currently around 11 or 12C, dropping to 9C tonight.

What to expect tonight as the full Hunter moon, earth and sun get tangled in each others path, at least partially.

Looking ahead into the weekend more showers should develop by Saturday afternoon as low pressure arrives from the Great Lakes. The showers and cooler weather will start Sunday and last well into next week. Highs this weekend will be in the 12 to 15C range with lows of 7 to 9C, By early next week high temperatures will struggle to reach 8 or 9C.

Colder weather on the horizon for Montreal

A ghostly reminder that despite the warm sunshine this weekend, it is October and the days are getting shorter and cooler. Halloween is just around the corner followed by you know what! (ValleyWX)

Most of eastern Ontario and southern Quebec have been enjoying a near perfect fall weather with abundant sunshine and many days of above normal temperatures. This past holiday weekend felt more like late August than October. Highs were in the low 20's with very warm nights in the teens. A front crossed the region on Monday with some light showers, just a few millimetres of rain on L'Ile Perrot and with no apparent change in temperatures. This morning it is still mild at 12C with lots of fog around. A dense fog advisory is in effect for most of northern New York and Vermont with visibility under 1 mile (1.6km). If you are heading off island to the south of Montreal be aware of this fog, which should burn off by 10am or so. Otherwise look for one more sunny warm day before changes begin. A major pattern change is anticipated between now and months end with much cooler and wet weather on the way. The showers will arrive on Wednesday and be with us for the remainder of the week. The cooler air will arrive be the weekend.

Forecast models are hinting at a very cold end to October and start to November for most of the country. Snow is even possible across the Prairies with a hint of some snowflakes by the 10th of November here in the east. Time will tell, until then enjoy the weather and get your winter plans firmed up. My snow tires go on as always next week.

Perfect Thanksgiving Weekend for Montreal

More incredible fall weather is forecast for Montreal and southern Quebec heading into the upcoming holiday weekend. It is chilly to start this morning, 5C (41F) here on L'Ile Perrot, but the sunshine will warm temperatures to well above normal highs of 20C. That sunshine will be with us right into the weekend as strong high pressure remains anchored over Quebec. Along with the sun will be well above normal highs of 19 to 21C.

Coastal flooding affected portions of Virginia and North Carolina on Wednesday, including the above picture from Norfolk. (The Virginia-Pilot)

A nasty coastal storm is affecting portions of the Carolina's north towards southern New England. Strong winds, coastal flooding and heavy rain is forecast from New York to Norfolk. Yesterday nearly a foot of rain fell on Hatteras Island, North Carolina. Along with the freshwater flooding, high surf  and ocean overwash occurred along Highway 12 and flooded parts of the Island. Winds gusting to 50mph caused sporadic power outages from Maryland to North Carolina. That system will not affect southern Quebec with the exception of a gusty northeast wind later Friday.

Strong winds disrupt power in Montreal

High winds toppled power lines and trees in southern Quebec on Monday.
 (CBC News)

Strong winds helped push temperatures soar to 24C (76F) in Montreal on Monday with even some low 80's creeping into the border areas with Vermont and New York. The front also brought some potent showers and thunderstorms along with strong and gusty winds. Winds were in the 70-90km/h range most of the day and have since lowered to 20-40km/h this morning. The wind took out some trees and power lines, especially south of Montreal. Hydro Quebec is reporting about 7000 customer still without power across the province this morning down from around 32,000 on Monday evening. Power outages were also reported across northern New England and eastern Ontario. As the front passed through Montreal at 3pm, around 15mm of rain fell on the city. Unfortunately it occurred during the evening commute making it a slow and difficult one. Other regions of southern Quebec had as much as 25-30mm of rain along the frontal passage. Temperatures dropped rapidly behind the front from 24C (76F) down to 16C (60F) in a matter of minutes. This morning L'Ile Perrot is a chilly 6C (43F) with Ottawa down to 3C (38F).

A spectacular double rainbow appeared behind the cold front late Monday afternoon, visible across most of the island of Montreal. (ValleyWX Photo)

The good news is that our tremendous stretch of fall weather will continue with nothing but sunshine and warming temperatures right into the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday weekend. For the record Montreal has had rain on only four of the last 21 days, remarkable at anytime of the year but especially during typically wet fall.

Finally some moisture for Montreal - incredible South Dakota snow

Streets in Rapid City, South Dakota clogged with snow. (CNN)

Rain finally moved into Montreal this afternoon, 14 days after the last measurable precipitation. Around 7mm fell on L'Ile Perrot, it has since ended with the showers moving off to the northeast as a warm front crossed the region. Temperatures will rise to 23C by midday Monday, well above the normal October 7 high of 14C. The afternoon will feature a strong cold front trailing from the same system the brought South Dakota its massive snowstorm Friday. This front will produce heavy rain and thunderstorms in southern Quebec, along with winds gusting to 70km/h in the afternoon. Rainfall along the front could be significant with up to 40mm possible in some locations. Temperatures will cool to 7C Monday night behind the front. Tuesday will be windy and cooler with highs near 15C.

Several tornadoes including this one in Nebraska, occurred on the warm side of the storm.

SOUTH DAKOTA BLIZZARD
Friday's snowstorm across the plains of South Dakota and Wyoming was legendary with several snow rerecords being smashed. The Black Hills received as much as 50 inches of heavy wet snow accompanied by 70 mph winds. The storm was big by any standards but especially for October. Drifts piled up the sides of many buildings while trees and power lines were down across the region. Highways were jammed with stranded motorists, several had to be rescued by snowmobile. The snow was accompanied by thunder and lightning in Rapid City and Lead. Meanwhile on the warm side of the system, strong thunderstorms and tornadoes raced across Nebraska with an F-4 tornado reported in Wayne. Damage was extensive across the region. Flooding is now a concern in South Dakota as the record snowfall begins to melt.

Tropical Storm Karen heads for Florida - Blizzard in Dakotas

Tropical storm Karen (lower center of image) and a blizzard (upper left) on the map at the same time. You have to love October. 

Two very distinct weather features are on this mornings map, a blizzard over the Dakotas and a tropical storm in the Gulf of Mexico all at the same time. Both will have an impact on our weather by Monday, finally bringing an end to this stretch of incredible sunshine and warmth. We managed another sunny day on Thursday with temperatures in the low 20's. Today clouds and a few sprinkles along a very weak cold front this morning, but otherwise partly cloudy, mild and dry through Saturday.

Meanwhile Tropical Storm Karen has prompted warnings for the central Gulf Coast from Louisiana to Florida this morning with the center about 300 miles from the mouth of the Mississippi River. Maximum winds are at 60mph and some strengthening is possible before landfall late Saturday, likely in the Florida panhandle. Karen will produce a 3-5 foot storm surge along with 4 to 8 inches or rain. This system will then move inland towards the Carolina's and become absorbed by a larger storm that is affecting the northern plains and Rockies this morning. A record breaking snowstorm is forecast for the Black Hills of South Dakota with one to two feet of snow and 40-70mph winds possible over the next 24 hours. It is already down to 32F and snowing at the Black Hills Airport near Sturgis this morning.

This large upper level low will spin into the Great Lakes by Sunday, tapping into the Gulf moisture from Karen and bringing an end to our dry weather. Rainfall amounts could be modest Sunday and Monday here in Montreal and across Eastern Ontario into northern New England. There could even be some thunderstorms. Temperatures will however remain mild into next week for Montreal
.

Big snowstorm for western Plains - warm in the east

A potent low pressure area will develop today across the northern Rockies and swing into the central plains tonight. This system has already produced 3-7cm of wet snow over portions of southwest Alberta into northwest Montana. The storm will ramp up later today and tonight with rain changing to heavy wet snow across the Black Hills of South Dakota west into Wyoming as well as portions of North Dakota. Forecasters expect 12-24 inches (30-60cm) of wet snow by the end of Friday with strong northerly winds producing blowing and drifting snow. Power lines and trees will be subject to the heavy weight of the snow as well as the wind.

The storm will lift into the western Great Lakes by the weekend with a chance of some snow over northwest Ontario. Meanwhile here in southern Quebec and Ontario, today is day 11 of sunshine and above normal temperatures. We hit 25C (77F) in Montreal on Wednesday, and should do 22C today. Some showers are likely by late Friday into Saturday. Wet weather can also be expected to start next week, but it will remain warm for October.

We should have the development of tropical storm Karen at some point today. The National Hurricane Center is giving an area of disturbed weather and thunderstorms near the Yucatan an 80 per cent chance of development. Karen will then threaten the Yucatan as she moves into the southern Gulf. All interest along the Gulf Coast should monitor the progress of this system today and into the weekend.

Active Northern Lights - spectacular fall weather

This incredible photo of the Northern Lights was taken by an observer on top of Mount Washington last evening. It was posted to their Facebook page, you can purchase your own copy and support the Observatory HERE.

What more can you say about this weather, simply spectacular for this time of year. Today is the 10th consecutive sunny day with no precipitation in Montreal, a feat difficult at anytime of the year, let alone late September into October. It appears today will be the warmest day of them all, with strong southwest winds up to 50km/h ahead of a weak cold front. Temperatures will match or exceed the high of 24C recorded on Tuesday. That is a full 8 degrees above normal. Today we are already at 16C, usually the normal high for today's date. There is an end in sight, but not a drastic one. A frontal system will bring showers and slightly cooler weather into the weekend.

Big changes are expected in the west where a deep dip in the jet stream will allow cold air to plummet into the Rockies and western Great Plains. Winter Storm Watches may be hoisted for the Black Hills of South Dakota into Wyoming by late Thursday. Strong winds and snow are forecast on the west side of a developing storm, while severe weather is likely across Missouri and Illinois. This system will bring rain and cooler weather into Ontario and Quebec by next week.

NORTHERN LIGHTS
Last night the Aurora Boriealis or northern lights were quite active across a wide region from the Prairies across the far north and into Quebec and northern New England. Sadly I slept through them after two 12 hour workdays, I think we also had a little cloud cover overnight. I have posted a spectacular picture taken from the top of Mount Washington in central New Hampshire last night. I invite you to click on the link on the right side of my blog and explore the observatory atop the mountain. I have been a member for three years now, every penny worth it when you see the research and spectacular photos and observations taken form this unique weatherscape. I have visited once, and plan a return trip next year, perhaps for a longer stay to volunteer, one never knows.

More sunny & warm fall weather

As September slips into October, the weather remains absolutely perfect for Montreal and southern Quebec. A stubborn ridge of high pressure has provided us so far with 8 consecutive days of sunny, warm weather with highs over the weekend in the mid 20's. We have not had any precipitation since last Sunday and we will not see any before next Saturday. This morning a dissipating cold front is producing some showers across central and southern Ontario. This front will continue to weaken as it moves into Quebec with just clouds expected late today and this evening. Otherwise look for good weather through Friday with high temperatures in the middle 20's and lows either side of 10C. These are well above the normal high/low of 16/6C for Montreal.

BC STORM
Over the weekend a strong Pacific storm moved onto Vancouver Island affecting the entire south coast and portions of neighboring Washington State with 100km/h winds and 50-100mm (2-4 inches) of rainfall. Trees were knocked down, power was out to thousands of BC Hydro clients and flooding was reported.

Strong winds and flooding occurred this weekend along BC's south coast. 
(CBC News)

Perfect September Weekend for Montreal

The entire region continues to benefit from high pressure stuck over Quebec. Light winds and clear skies have allowed for cool nights but warm days. A few periods of cloud cover have occurred in Montreal, as is typical in the fall, but no precipitation has been recorded. One of those periods is occurring this morning as a low deck of stratus cloud cover crosses the region. This will move out soon with nothing but sunshine through the weekend. Temperatures will be well above normal during the day from 20 to 23C (70-75F) and cool, near normal nights at around 5C (41F). Some fog may also develop after midnight as the air becomes quite moist in the longer overnight hours. A few clouds may occur Sunday night along a weakening cold front, but otherwise look for more sunshine and well above normal temperatures through next week. A coastal storm will remain to our east with no weather from it here in the St. Lawrence Valley.

While it remains dry here in Montreal, there is some weather out there. A Pacific storm dumped heavy snow across the Rockies and coastal mountains this week. The photo above, from The Weather Channel, is deep snow at Crater Lake Lodge in Oregon. More snow is forecast this weekend. Soggy, stormy weather will occur from B.C. into Saskatchewan.

With very tranquil weather in Montreal to close out September we have to look elsewhere for storminess. A large and strong Pacific storm will slam into south coastal British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest this weekend. Early estimates for rainfall are in the 60-120mm range with 60-80km/h winds. There will also be more snowfall at the highest elevations.

Enjoy this autumn gift

There are only three months until Christmas Day! Now that I have your attention, think about it, today will be sunny and nearly 21C (70F). Now think about the incredible transition the weather will go through over the next three months and along with it our bodies, pets, homes, cars etc and you get the picture. All that to say enjoy the next several days a we really get a gift from God and mother nature. With low pressure stuck off the Atlantic Canada coast, high pressure is very slowly drifting across Ontario and Quebec this week. The nights will be cool with lots of dew and even frost away from the metro areas and bodies of water. But the days will be spectacular, just a few clouds and warm temperatures, well above normal into the 20's right through the weekend. The weather will provide exceptional viewing of the fall colors that are starting to burst across the region, especially the higher elevations south of Montreal.

From The Weather Channel, the white peaks of the Big Sky Country in Montana. Snow fell already during the past week as the seasons begin the change. Enjoy the sunshine and warmth of this week in Montreal.

There are signs of the change of seasons, many trees are sporting color now, and we are stating to see lots of flocks of Canadian geese heading south over L'Ile Perrot, a stopping spot on there trek south to the Carolina's and points beyond. Another sign that we have a change in the seasons underway is coming from the Rockies northwest into Alaska where some snow has already fallen.

Cody the Stormchaser
One of my friends & colleagues from my days at the Kemptville Advance has a great blog called The Accidental Farmwife. This week she writes about two subjects near and dear to my heart, dogs and weather. I know it all too well just how reliable dogs are at predicting thunderstorms, her Cody and my Bella, little furry barometers. Have a read HERE

Fall arrives with a spectacular forecast for Montreal

Leaves have been falling off the oak trees since the middle of August. But as if they knew, the maples with their vivid reds, were waiting for the first day of fall to explode with color here on the West Island of Montreal. (ValleyWX)

Fall is officially here despite my best efforts to keep summer around a little longer. It is a very cool morning across the area with Ottawa down to 2C (36F) and L'Ile Perrot at 5C (41F). Look for nothing but sunshine today and for the balance of the week as high pressure slowly settles into Quebec. Temperatures will start out below normal with a forecast high of only 13C (55F) for Montreal today. Temperatures will drop to near 3C (39F) tonight but warm up to 18C (65F) Tuesday. By the end of the week we should see highs near 21C (70F). The next threat for any rain will not arrive before next Sunday at the earliest. That is is, a very simple forecast. I was reading the forecast discussion out of the National Weather Service office in Burlington, Vermont and they pretty much echoed the same, nothing to see here folks, sunshine all week.

Rainy weekend for Montreal

Like this entire week, it will be a near perfect Friday as summer 2013 draws to a close. Sunshine and warm southwest breeze will allow temperatures to rise to 27C (80F) in Montreal. We welcome Autumn at 4:44 pm on Sunday afternoon. The forecast this weekend is not looking so good as an area of showers and perhaps some thunderstorms slowly move across the St. Lawrence Valley from midday Saturday through Sunday. As much as 25mm (1 inch) of rain may fall over the weekend. Skies will clear out late Sunday setting the stage for another spectacular work week next week. Temperatures are forecast to rise back above normal with nothing but sunshine from Monday to Friday.

Of note, yesterday we were thinking that a tropical system might get going in the Gulf of Mexico and perhaps threaten Florida or the east coast. This is becoming less likely, at least at this time. The tropics look quiet for the weekend, a blessing at this time of the year.

First snow across Rockies & warm in southern Quebec

Summer 2013 is just about over with the Fall Equinox to occur this Sunday. The summer will end cold out west and with a warming trend here in the east. Montreal can expect sunshine today and Friday with warm high temperatures of 24C and 27C respectively. High pressure that has dominated all week will slowly slide off to the east allowing a cold front to cross the St. Lawrence Valley on Saturday. So sadly it looks like showers for both days this weekend. Temperatures will cool back down into the high teens for both days.

There is lots of weather to speak off across North America from tropical activity in the south to snow in the west and across portions of Alaska. September snow is not unusual, but being that it has been such a warm summer, it is a little surprising. A couple of centimeters fell at Sunshine Village near Banff yesterday as seen on the their webcam image above. It should melt today as temperatures warm up slightly in Alberta.

Mexico continues to be hammered by two tropical systems causing severe flooding with over 60 deaths reported. Hurricane Manual has re-developed just off the Pacific coast and continues to pound the region with heavy rain. Forecasters are now watching the warm Gulf of Mexico waters near the Yucatan for development of the next storm, Jerry. Several computers models develop this storm and take Jerry towards Florida so this system will have to be watched over the next 48 hours.

Cool start to day - but beautiful week ahead

Strong high pressure is now in control of the weather in southern Quebec and much of Ontario and New England. It is a cold start to the day with clear skies and temperatures ranging from below freezing in the Adirondacks and Townships to around 4C (39F) here in Montreal. There was no frost this morning, at least here on L'Ile Perrot. I imagine with lows at 0C or colder in many locations, other areas were not so lucky. It will be sunny today and right through the end of the week with slowly moderating temperatures. Highs of 17C (63F) today but warming into the mid 20's by Friday. Lows will be much milder this evening around 8C (47F).

Another early frost expected for southern Quebec

Our rather unusual September will continue with near record lows forecast for many parts of southern Quebec and New England tonight. This occurring just days after record warmth and strong summer thunderstorms. L'Ile Perrot was chilly this morning after a cold front brought us around 10mm of rain overnight. The temperatures around the area this morning range from 5 to 9C. It was cold and wet walking the dog. Clearing skies have already moved into the Ottawa Valley, and they should arrive in Montreal by mid morning. Look for temperatures to rebound to near 15C before diving down to near the freezing point tonight with patchy frost in the city and suburbs. Away from the water most areas north and southeast of the city and across northern New England will see frost. Frost warnings have been posted for those regions and I suspect the growing season may come to an end in several communities. Remember it is still summer!

HURRICANE INGRID
Ingrid is located near the Mexican Gulf Coast this morning with 75mph winds. Wind and a storm surge are likely along the immediate coast from extreme south Texas into Mexico but the main threat will be rain. Ingrid will weaken after landfall this morning but move slowly into the mountainous terrain of central Mexico. The slow moving nature of the storm combined with the mountains will produce copious amounts of rain. Major flooding and mudslides are expected for this area with the potential for damage and loss of life quite high. Up to 25 inches of rain may fall this week in that region.

Cooler less humid weekend for Montreal

Lightning illuminates US 1A in North Hampton Beach.

It has been a really wild weather week with record heat sparking big thunderstorms over Quebec, Ontario and New England. The storms dumped 50-100mm from Montreal south with flooding, power outages and trees down. Now colder air is settling in with just a few showers around. Wednesday's near record high of 31C in Montreal is long gone as we will struggle to hit 16C today.

Meanwhile major flooding occurred in Boulder, Colorado yesterday with as much as 10 inches of rain sweeping away cars, homes and everything in its path. Three fatalities were reported in what some are describing as a 500 year flood very similar in nature to what happened in Alberta this year.

Finally the tropics remain active with a weak but very wet tropical depression Gabrielle about to interact with a cold front and deluge Atlantic Canada. Heavy rain warnings are posted for up to 100mm of rain along with 70 km/h winds in Cape Breton and later western Newfoundland. In the Gulf of Mexico TD 10 has formed and is forecast to become a tropical storm and affect Mexico and south Texas this weekend with torrential rain and flooding.

This is my last day blogging with the crashing surf in the background. I could live here, just missing my dog and I would move in! It has been an active week here with July heat followed by strong storms. I leave you with two of the best lightning shots I have ever taken above and below. I took them in the early hours of Thursday morning looking across US 1A into the Atlantic Ocean.


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Record heat & humidity

Take time to remember today on this 12th anniversary of 9/11. Thank you to all who continue to protect our freedom here in North America. Above is the Portsmouth, NH Coast Guard Station. (ValleyWX)

A stubborn warm front remains just to the south of Montreal this morning separating record September heat from the misty, cool weather in the valley. Cornwall and Kemptville in Ontario were already in the mid 20's this morning while Montreal remained in the middle teens. All areas will see warm and humid highs pushing 30C (86F) today. Records were smashed across Ontario on Tuesday as highs pushed 32 to 34C. Further south where I am in New Hampshire, highs are forecast as warm as 95F today. The record for Montreal today is 31.1 set in 1947. We have a shot at it if we see the low clouds and mist lift.Thunderstorms over the last 24 hours left about 10mm of rain here on L'Ile Perrot. Strong storms are likely over the next 24 hours as a strong cold front slices through this thick, unseasonably humid air. Heavy rain may be the main threat with as much as 50mm expected. Strong winds and hail are possible as well. The biggest threat in Montreal will be late today into early Thursday morning.

The tropics have become active in what has been a very tranquil season to date. Hurricane Humberto developed early this morning saving the Atlantic basin from the "latest developing hurricane in any season record", by three hours! This system is way out in the Atlantic and no threat to land. Meanwhile of greater concern is tropical storm Gabrielle, located 85km west of Bermuda. The island nation has had wind gusts over 40 mph and very rough seas. Gabrielle is expected to weaken slightly as it moves off to the north and northeast. The storm will affect the coastal waters off Atlantic Canada and possibly Newfoundland by the weekend.

Summer heat & big thunderstorms

A warm front along the US border has become the focus for heavy showers and thunderstorms this morning. They will taper mid day and then fire up again this afternoon. There is a risk of severe weather with heavy rain, hail and even the risk of isolated tornadoes over upstate NY and Vermont. Southern Ontario is already warm and humid with temperatures near 24C in Windsor on the way to 34C with humidex readings over 40C. Clouds will keep Montreal around 29C.

Where I am along the coast it will be warm and humid near 80F today and over 90F, perhaps record setting Wednesday. The entire region will see more strong storms Thursday as a cold front cuts across the area. More cold air will pour into the region on the weekend with temperatures plummeting from record setting to well below normal and frost.

TROPICAL UPDATE
Two tropical systems are in the Atlantic basin this morning, Gabrielle and Humberto. Tropical storm Gabrielle will brush Bermuda before it heads towards Atlantic Canada. Meanwhile tropical storm Humberto is way out in the Atlantic Ocean south of the Cape Verde Islands. If Humberto reaches hurricane status today, it will avoid a record breaking year for the latest hurricane to develop in any season. The previous year was 2002 when Gustav formed at 8am on September 11.
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From frost to hot weather for Ontario & Quebec

The view of a near perfect Sunday from Portsmouth Harbor Light in New Hampshire. (ValleyWX)

It is a chilly start for the week across much of southern Ontario & Quebec with frost reported once again in several locations. It is early for this as it does remain summer! It was as cold as 5C (41F) at my home on L'Ile Perrot this morning with 0C (32F) in Sherbrooke. We will see a sunny day with increasing southwest winds and warming highs into the low 20's. The wind shift will herald the arrival of much warmer air from the southwest that will invade Ontario and Quebec through the midweek. The heat and humidity may be record breaking for some of us with near 30C forecast for many areas by Wednesday and as warm as 33C in Toronto. A warm front will approach Montreal on Tuesday but may remain just south of the city with showers and clouds keeping the temperature a little lower for the city.

In any event it will lift well north of my location here in southern coastal New Hampshire. Wednesday will be a true September gift with sunshine and forecast highs of near 90F here. Who would have thought beach weather in September! The warmth will be short lived with more chilly air and the threat for frost moving into the region by next weekend.

With the arrival and departure of the warm and humid air, we have a pretty good chance of some strong thunderstorms Tuesday through Thursday along both the warm front and cold front. This will have to be monitored closely.

Cold frosty night then warm week ahead

Well I am finally taking a little break from the routine with a few days on the coast in southern New Hampshire and northeast Massachusetts. August was a very busy month with lots of changes in my life and family, so I am glad to change it up and see some different weather. When I return to Montreal, I will be back in the newspaper business, where I belong, working for The Suburban, who are celebrating their 50th year publishing in 2013.

Now back to the weather. Sunshine this morning here in Hampton Beach and mild as a cold front lies to our north. That front passed through Montreal and southern Quebec overnight with a few showers and cooler weather. Temperatures will be cooler today in Montreal, around 19C. Tonight it will be clear and cold again with frost across regions north of Montreal, and in northern Vermont and New York. Temperatures will be near 6C in Montreal but as cold as 0C in the Townships. Then a big warm up is on the way with perhaps 30C by mid-week in Montreal. It will be a warm and humid week with thunderstorms by Thursday.

I will be blogging from the coast for a few days so look for some new pictures soon. For now I leave you with sunrise this morning at North Hampton Beach.

Sunrise on North Hampton Beach this morning.(Valley WX)

Warmer weekend for Montreal

The threat of frost is over for the time being with warmer southwest winds increasing this morning. Temperatures were very cool overnight for this early in September. Frost was reported in some areas north of Montreal and in the Ottawa and Rideau Valley's. It was as cold as 5C (41F) here on L'Ile Perrot this morning, 4C in Ottawa, and 1C (33F) in Sherbrooke. Temperatures will warm quickly today with bright sunshine and highs near 21C (70F). A cold front will sweep the St. Lawrence Valley by mid-day Saturday with increasing clouds tonight and showers Saturday. Sunday will see some residual clouds and showers before skies clear in the afternoon.

Widespread frost & freeze warnings

From Environment Canada, frost warning map for southern Quebec for Friday morning. Lows will be near of below freezing in the red shaded areas and between 3 and 5C elsewhere.

Every September I fight the onset of fall and watch helplessly as summer slips away. This morning was no different as I continue to defy the odds and wear shorts to walk the dog despite the 9C (48F) weather here on L'Ile Perrot. We were as cold as 8.6C this morning at my home at around 7am. Skies are clear and winds are light perfect for radiational cooling. We can expect a sunny day with highs trying to reach the 20C (68F) mark. Tonight will be very cold with widespread frost expected north of Montreal and in the hills and mountains south of the city and into New York and Vermont. Lows will range from near 0C (32F) north or the city to around 5C (41F) in metro regions of Montreal and Ottawa. The shorts will stay on tomorrow morning as September 7 is just too early to throw in the flag!

Frost warnings are in effect on both sides of the international border with several hours of below freezing temperatures possible across the Adirondacks of New York and the extreme northern Laurentians. Low pressure moving north of Montreal by late Friday will allow for a moderation in temperatures as we head into the weekend. Showers are possible both Saturday and Sunday as a cold front moves into the St. Lawrence Valley -
but it will not be a washout.

Much cooler weather to end the week in southern Quebec

Possible Frost Thursday night for Townships & Laurentians
A cold front southeast of Hudson Bay this morning will race into southern Quebec by this evening. In advance of the front sunshine will allow temperatures to climb to 21C (70F) today. Showers along the front this evening will end overnight from Montreal to the US border and early Thursday across New England. Temperatures will settle back into the low teens tonight and stay there on Thursday as some of the coolest air since last May settles into the region. Temperatures on Thursday will struggle to make it to 16C (60F) in Montreal. Overnight lows Thursday night will be around 6 or 7C in Montreal but as cold as 2 or 3C away from the city and below freezing in the colder sheltered valley's of the Townships into upstate New York and Vermont. This will certainly inject some color into the leaves which are starting to turn here on L'Ile Perrot. The good news is it will be sunny through Friday with just a chance of some showers late Saturday. Temperatures will start to warm again into the weekend as high pressure moves off the east coast.

Welcome to a new season

The setting sun on L'Ile Perrot casts an eerie glow on departing thunderstorms to my east. (ValleyWeather)

September 1 marked the start of meteorological fall, but we still have a few decent summer days left, some years more, some years less. The last holiday weekend of the summer was good in Montreal with a warm and muggy Saturday followed by a near perfect Sunday, sunshine and ideal temperatures of 26C. Labor Day Monday not so good as a series of fronts brought us several rounds of thunderstorms with the late afternoon storms being the most active. A well defined line of storms paraded east across Ontario and New York State into Vermont and southern Quebec around the supper hour. There was lots of lightning with the cells but not much severe weather. The one exception was very heavy rainfall. About 12mm fell in just a few minutes here on L'Ile Perrot while the airport recorded 20mm. Much more fell across the Townships with over 60mm (2 inches) at Sherbrooke. Flooding was reported in the Magog area.

The morning storms skirted us here on L'Ile Perot but did manage to topple some trees on the Island of Montreal as well as produce flooding in Laval. Those storms were along a warm front that was followed by partial sunshine and muggy weather setting up the evening thunderstorms.

Morning thunderstorms toppled this tree in NDG. (The Gazette)

Another front will cross the region today with showers and much cooler weather. Temperatures will struggle to make it to 20C. A cold front late Wednesday will bring in some of the coolest air so far this season with temperatures in the single digits for lows and highs of around 16C by
Thursday.