Record high 33C for Montreal

A heat warning remains posted by Environment Canada for southwest Quebec as heat index values approach 37C (100F) once again this afternoon. Tuesday was the warmest Canada Day ever in Montreal as the mercury officially hit 33.2C (91.7F) at Trudeau Airport. The previous record was 32.5C from 1963. It remained warm overnight dropping only into the low 20's,  we are sitting at 26C (79F) already at 8am this morning. Temperatures will be a degree or two cooler today but remaining humid with highs near 31C (88F). The record today, also from 1963, is 34.4C.

The forecast for the most part was dry on Canada Day for Montreal with thunderstorms remaining over the Laurentians and Ottawa Valley or well south of Quebec in central New York. The storms were fast moving but did produce some wind damage across the lower Laurentians. Today's risk for storms is rather low for Montreal with the main dynamic south of the city across New York and Vermont and perhaps into the Sherbrooke area.It will remain hazy and humid in southern Quebec into Thursday with lows tonight near 22C and highs Thursday once again approaching 30C. A trough will bring showers and thunderstorms late Thursday with cooler and dryer weather arriving by late Friday. The weekend looks sunny with near normal temperatures.

A spectacular visible image of a strengthening tropical storm Arthur east of Florida this morning. Note the thunderstorm tops bubbling high into the atmosphere. (NOAA)

ARTHUR
Tropical storm Arthur developed as expected on Tuesday and now has 60mph winds. The deepening storm with impressive convection is located a few miles off the Florida coast about 495 miles south of Charleston, South Carolina, moving north at 6 mph. This morning tropical storm warnings are in affect along the Florida coast, with a hurricane watch posted along the fragile North Carolina coast including the Outer Banks south of Oregon Inlet. Arthur is forecast to intensify into a minimal hurricane while approaching North Carolina by Friday. Heavy rain and high surf will be the primary threat at this time. I have vacationed on Hatteras Island since 1991 and this region is highly vulnerable to flooding from both the ocean and sound. Beyond the Carolina's the storm could bring high winds and rain to Nova Scotia and PEI by this weekend.

Warmest day of 2014 for Montreal - strong storms likely

Happy Canada Day.

We are warm and very humid this morning in Montreal as temperatures start the day in the mid 20's. Currently I have 25C on L'Ile Perrot but with an 83 per cent humidity, it feels quite uncomfortable. A heat warning is in effect for eastern Ontario and southwest Quebec. Temperatures will warm under hazy sunshine to 33C (92F) today with heat index values close to 38C (100F) for metro Montreal and the surrounding region. As always try to limit extreme outdoor activities and drink plenty of water. Temperatures will remain warm tonight, dropping to 23C and warm again on Wednesday at 30C. It should turn cooler and less humid by Thursday.

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
The other threat today will come in the form of strong thunderstorms. A cold front moving into Ontario and Quebec will trigger these storms, and with plenty of moisture and energy available they could be quite strong. The threat will begin early this afternoon in western Quebec and Ontario, and spread towards metro Montreal by the supper hour. Already this morning a severe thunderstorm watch has been posted north and west of Montreal. With today being a holiday and many outdoor activities scheduled, it is important to be aware of any potential severe weather and warnings that may be issued later today for Montreal. The main threat will be strong winds and possible hail. There is also the risk of an isolated tornado in regions northwest of Montreal and across southern Ontario.

The current forecast track of Arthur may take it towards Nova Scotia by the weekend. (NHC)

Tropical Storm Arthur
Forecasters at the National Hurricane Center in Florida are tracking the first tropical system of the young 2014 season in the Atlantic basin. Depression one will likely become tropical storm Arthur today as winds reach 39mph. The storm is forecast to slowly develop just off the US southeast coast. It is forecast at this time to remain just offshore with heavy rain (3-5 inches) and rough surf expected on the coast from northeast Florida to North Carolina. The potential is there for Arthur to become a hurricane by the weekend near the Outer Banks. We will have to watch this system closely as the potential is there for some weather to affect Atlantic Canada by the weekend. At this time the New England beaches look to be spared from a direct hit, however the surf will be rough.

Heat Advisory for Metro Montreal

It was a sultry day across southern Quebec on Sunday with temperatures in the low 30's including 31.3C (88F) here on L'Ile Perrot. Factor in the humidity and it felt closer to 40C Sunday afternoon. Some showers and thunderstorms are occurring in the hot and humid conditions across Ontario and they may spread briefly into Quebec as well early Monday. Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for metro Montreal for Monday with hazy weather forecast and highs near 32C (90F). Humidex readings in the afternoon will once again approach 40C. Drink lots of fluids and don't over exert yourself outdoors. A cold front will bring some relief by Canada Day but also strong thunderstorms with the risk of severe weather including hail for Montreal during the afternoon hours. More on that threat as we get closer to the event.

Major flooding from 100-200mm of rain is being reported in Saskatchewan and Manitoba including Regina (above).

Prairie Flooding
Meanwhile severe flooding is occurring across southwest Manitoba and southeast Saskatchewan. Numerous roads are closed due to flooding including the Tran-Canada Highway near Moosomin. Major flooding has occurred in Regina and rain swollen rivers are starting to put pressure on the lakes region around Winnipeg. Strong storms dumped between 100-200mm (4-8 inches) of rain this weekend. In addition winds have brought down trees and power lines in Winnipeg. Brandon is under a state of emergency after 117mm of rain in the last 24 hours. Major overland flooding is occurring with fields and crops under water and highways washed out. Nearly one dozen Saskatchewan communities are under a state of emergency including Yorkton and Melville.

A perfect weekend for Montreal - sunny & hot

The rain is over for the time being. We are looking at what has been a very wet June in Montreal with nearly 170mm of rain at Trudeau Airport for the month, over double the normal. Other portions of southern Quebec have had even more. A state of emergency remains in effect in Saint-Colomban northwest of Montreal where nearly 100mm of rain fell last Tuesday alone, washing out many roads and flooding homes. Lachute reported 82mm of rain and Montreal 50mm. The slow moving system was across southern and eastern New England as well as Atlantic Canada Thursday with more heavy rain and isolated flooding.

A flooded underpass in the Cartierville district of Montreal on Tuesday night. This is why you do not drive your car into any standing water. Turn around don't drown! (CBC News)

SUNNY & HOT
For now high pressure will build into southern Quebec with another ridge building north from the Atlantic. The combination will drive up the temperatures as well as increase the humidity in Montreal. We managed 27C (81F) on Thursday with highs forecast either side of 30C (86F) through Canada Day. Overnight lows will be warm as well near 19C (66F). Nothing but sunshine through the long weekend with the next threat for showers and thunderstorms increasing by Tuesday.

Montreal flooding and another Ontario tornado

Several homes on Paquin Street in Ile Bizzard had to have their basements pumped by Montreal firefighters. (CJAD)

We had a very muggy, wet June 24 holiday in Montreal yesterday with showers and thunderstorms all day long hampering parades and B.B.Q's. The inclement weather was caused by a slow cold front moving south into very warm and mosit tropical air. The result was a day of thunderstorms across southern Ontario and Quebec. The rain accumulated about 12mm over the course of the daylight hours in Montreal, but really increased in intensity in the late evening as another 40mm fell. Over 30mm (1 inch) of that fell in just over one hour between 10:45 and midnight here on L'Ile Perrot. My total for the day was exactly 50mm (2 inches) with 40mm at the airport, and even more in other parts of the city. The heavy rain produced some flooding in several sections of the city including Ile Bizzard where at least 6 homes had major damage with up to 6 feet of water in their basements. Some highways also had to be temporarily closed by Transport Quebec to deal with water accumulation.

More tornado damage shown above in Ontario as the community of New Tecumseth was hit Tuesday afternoon by an EF-1 tornado. (The Weather Network)

TORNADO
In Ontario more severe weather was reported with an EF-1 tornado touching down in New Tecumseth, northwest of Toronto on Tuesday afternoon. The storm had winds in excess of 135km/h and was on the ground for at least 10 kilometers. Environment Canada will be assessing the damage today to provide more details on the 5th Ontario tornado this season. Another funnel cloud with rotation was reported closer to home in North Glengarry, Ontario. No damage was reported with that storm. Meanwhile Ottawa had 55mm of rain with flooding observed in several neighborhoods. Like Montreal, some city streets and highways had to be closed briefly as a result of water accumulation.

HOT WEATHER
What could be our first stretch of really hot summer weather is on the horizon. High pressure will pump warm and increasingly humid air from the US south into the St. Lawrence Valley and the Great Lakes starting as early as Saturday. It looks at this time like we could have several days of temperatures at or above 30C (86F) into next week. Until then temperatures will be in the 22 to 25C (72 to 77F) range with showers today and clearing skies on Thursday.

Warmer & more humid with thunderstorms by Tuesday

A variable sky on Saturday over Montreal with more clouds than sun. Sunday was a perfect weather day. (ValleyWX Photo)

After a great weekend, back to work Monday is looking much warmer and more humid. L'Ile Perrot is already at 19C (66F) early this Monday morning with nothing but sunshine. It will remain that way for the entire day with high temperatures pushing 28C (83F). The work week won't last long here in Quebec, as we have our provincial holiday tomorrow (Le Fete, St jean Baptiste Day), call what you want, it is a day off work. Unfortunately the sunshine will not last either. A frontal system will move into southern Quebec overnight with increasing clouds followed by showers and thunderstorms for Tuesday. Some of the storms may have very heavy rain. It has already been a wet month with nearly 130mm (over 5 inches of rain) here in Montreal. Normal rainfall at Trudeau Airport for June is 87mm, and we are well beyond that with a week to go. Temperatures tonight will remain warm near 20C (68F). On Tuesday cloud cover and showers should keep temperatures down between 21 and 24C (70-75F). It should clear out Wednesday with sunshine and a high near 24C (76F).

Spectacular weekend forecast for Montreal

Summer arrives at 6:51am Saturday morning and it looks like nothing but sunshine and warm temperatures for most portions of southern Quebec and eastern Ontario for the upcoming weekend. Temperatures in Montreal will warm from 22C (72F) today up to near 27C (81F) by Sunday. Overnight lows will be comfortable around 14C (56F), and humidity levels should remain low. The next chance for any precipitation will be late Tuesday as a frontal boundary approaches Quebec with the risk of showers and thunderstorms.

Major flooding is occurring yet again in southern Alberta. (CBC News)

Alberta Flooding
The weather has not been so kind in western Canada as a stubborn area of low pressure meandering around southern Alberta has generated heavy rain and even snow. Rainfall amounts in excess of 200mm (8 inches) since Monday has resulted in flooding around Fort Macleod, Magrath, Claresholm and Lethbridge County, Alberta. This is occurring one year to the date of the severe flooding last June that would eventually spread into Calgary. Flood watches and warnings are in effect across a large portion of southern Alberta, with a state of emergency declared in 11 communities so far.

What a weather week, flood, fire, searing heat, tornadoes and now a snowstorm! Heavy snow fell this week in parts of Utah and Wyoming.

Meanwhile the same system produced a very rare June snowstorm across the northern US Rockies with as much as two feet (60cm) of snow across the upper elevations of northwest Montana, Utah (above) and Wyoming.

Angus, Ontario EF-2 tornado

A major EF2 tornado races across Angus, Ontario late Tuesday. (Video Tina Forget)

Severe weather is in the news again across North America as an elongated area of disturbed weather stretches from the US high plains to the Great Lakes. On Monday twin tornadoes smashed into the tiny northeast Nebraska community of Pilger destroying 75 percent of the town and killing two and critically injuring 16. The same system has been producing very heavy rain across southern Alberta with over 100 mm (4 inches) reported in the Pincher Creek area. This is the same portion of Alberta where major flooding started last summer spreading into Calgary. More rain is forecast today as the system lingers.

Complete damage in the tiny Nebraska town of Pilger on Monday. (The Weather Channel)

ONTARIO STORMS

The eastern portion of the front raced through Ontario on Tuesday with widespread severe weather. In the early morning hours, lightning struck four golfers in Stouffville, Ontario, leaving one in critical condition. The quick work of an ICU Nurse nearby saved the mans life as she preformed CPR on the victim. It stresses the point I made in my last blog entry (see below) about how important it is to get indoors at the first threat of any lightning. The system also spawned a major EF-2 tornado around 5:30pm, capable of winds in excess of 200km/h. The tornado swept across a neighborhood of Angus, Ontario near Barrie severely damaging over 30 homes. Evacuations were ordered for 300 people. Roofs and sheds were torn apart, power poles were snapped in half, trees down and a truck flipped on its side. One person was injured according to local media. Environment Canada will be on scene today to determine the exact width and intensity of the tornado. Other regions of Ontario including Hamilton were under tornado warnings. Further east 104km/h winds cut power and toppled trees in Trenton. Heavy rain along the 401 corridor produced dangerous driving conditions with zero visibility in sudden downpours. Over 30,000 Ontario homes were left without power from the storms.

(Global News) Major damage was reported in Angus, Ontario. 

MONTREAL

As the system arrived in Montreal just after midnight early this morning, torrential rain fell with 24mm (1 inch) in less than 1 hour here on L'Ile Perrot. The system has now raced off to the east and is already over Atlantic Canada. More showers and thunderstorms are possible in Ontario and Quebec today along a weak cold front before we see clearing and cooler weather into the weekend. Temperatures will be warm today near 26C before it cools to 22C on Thursday.

Lightning Safety

At any given second, lightning is striking the earth somewhere, nearly 2000 thunderstorms are active around the earth every minute! Lightning is responsible for numerous death and injuries, and tons of damage to homes, electrical devises and power grids. Numerous fires are also started by lightning.

First of all, there is no safe place outdoors during a thunderstorm, your best defense, get inside. While your chances of being struck by lightning are slim, 10 Canadians pay the ultimate price for that gamble in an average year. Another 150 to 160 are injured, some with injuries that will stay with them for life. The average bolt of lightning contains enough energy, 300 million volts in a typical flash of lightning, to light a 100-watt incandescent light bulb for about three months. The air displaced by lightning is heated to a temperature 5 times that of the sun, nearly 28,000C, (50,000F) enough to melt car tires and burn skin. If you are stuck outside, get as low as you can, make yourself as small as possible.

I took this picture near my home in Kemptville, Ontario back in 2009. Lightning occurs quickly and is one of the top weather killers in North America. (ValleyWX Photo)

One of the myths about lightning is that it never strikes the same place twice. Note that the Empire State building in New York City is struck an average of more than 100 times each year. Rule number one, lightning likes tall objects, stay away from trees. Most deaths across North America are from those who seek shelter under a tree during a thunderstorm, it is one of the worst places you can be. Another is anywhere on or near water. Head ashore as soon as threatening weather approaches. You should always know the risk of thunderstorms when boating or at the beach. Keep a weatheradio with you at all times, they are cheap and could be a lifesaver, or download one of the may weather applications for your smartphone.

Lightning can strike more than 5km from the parent storm, so as soon as you hear thunder, head indoors. Refrain from outdoor activities such as swimming, soccer or golfing for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder occurs. A recent study by Environment Canada indicated that as little as 3-5% of individuals injured or killed by lightning in Canada are by a direct hit. Most occur by ground current (40-50%) or side flash (20-30%). That is why it is so important to refrain from using electrical appliances such as phones or computers that are hardwired directly to your home. Cordless items are fine to use. 

You are relatively safe inside a car, however if a car is directly hit, significant damage, including fire and blown out windows can occur. Just last week a couple from Tofield, Alberta had their truck struck by lighting. The vehicle became engulfed in a fireball and filled with smoke. It rolled to a stop with the electrical system destroyed. They were rescued by a passing RCMP officer. I posted a still image above taken form a nearby security camera.

Another myth, is that people struck can't be touched. A person struck by lightning is safe to handle immediately, they may need CPR or other medical attention. 

More heavy rain today

NOAA water vapor radar image showing deep moisture streaming north from the Gulf of Mexico towards Quebec this morning.

 The digital rain gauge is showing 39.2mm as of 7am this morning here on L'Ile Perrot, most of that falling overnight. The NOAA water vapor radar image above shows the trail of deep moisture running from the Gulf of Mexico northward into southern Ontario and the St. Lawrence Valley. A special weather statement for upwards of 50mm (2 inches) of rainfall is in effect for Montreal. Judging by the fact we are already at 40mm we may see a little more than that. Meanwhile heavy rain warnings are in effect across eastern Ontario. Many locations have reported over 50mm in the last 24 hours. Trenton received 76.2mm (3 inches) in just the last 24 hours. Flooding was reported in the Niagara Region and along the north shore of Lake Erie. Severe weather with hail, flooding and wind damage occurred from Ohio to the middle Atlantic south into the Carolinas.

Flooding from heavy rain in southern Ontario on Wednesday. (Photo: Twitter @ErieMedia)

SUNNY WEEKEND
The rain has come in waves along with embedded thunderstorms, and that will continue across the entire region today. Temperatures are chilly this morning at 14C but should warm to 20C today under the clouds and rain. On Friday a cold front will produce more showers with thunderstorms. Skies should clear out Saturday morning with sunshine for the weekend. Temperatures will range from 21 to 24C for the weekend in Montreal.

Plenty of rain to end the week for Quebec & Ontario

A sign of hope on a very difficult day in Moncton, New Brunswick on Tuesday. Thoughts and prayers to all involved.(CBC Nova Scotia via Twitter)

A moist weather system from the central US will help draw rain and thunderstorms northward across the eastern US and into the St. Lawrence Valley for the balance of the week. This morning we have sunshine in Montreal with warm temperatures in the high teens. The sun will rapidly begin to fade behind increasing clouds today as we reach 24C (76F). Radar shows rain and thunderstorms across Pennsylvania and Ohio moving into southwest Ontario this morning. The area of precipitation will slowly move into Quebec by this evening. Rain could be heavy at times with slow moving showers and storms. The same system on Tuesday produced flash floods across Metro Washington D.C. as well as portions of Maryland, so there is a history of flooding.

Environment Canada has issued heavy rain warnings for 50-70mm (2-3 inches) of rain across the Ottawa Valley as well as Eastern Ontario. In Quebec we currently have a special weather statement with no active warnings at this time. Forecast amounts here are in the 25-50mm range (1-2 inches) over the next three days. The good news is I think the system will be east of our region by Saturday morning with just clouds left to clear out. The weekend should be fair with warmer temperatures for Montreal, southwest Quebec and Ontario.

Lightning Safety Week in Canada is June 9-15
When the thunder ROARS go INDOORS!
Lightning kills an average of 10 Canadians each year while injuring over 150. I am preparing a blog post for tomorrow featuring more information and ways to stay safe during summer storms.

Unsettled weather week ahead

What a spectacular weekend and Monday in Montreal and across the St. Lawrence Valley. The weather was ideal, perhaps a little too hot, for the  Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada over the weekend. Temperatures were very close to 30C (86F) both Saturday and Sunday, dropping slightly to 27C (81F) on Monday.

This morning we have a northeast breeze along with clouds and showers that are keeping things cooler. I have 16C (61F) here on L'Ile Perrot, quite a bit cooler than last evening. A weak frontal system will bring showers this morning followed by afternoon clearing. Temperatures in Montreal will eventually make it to 25C (77F) once the clouds clear. Tonight should be fair with lows down to 15C (59F). On Wednesday southern Quebec will begin to feel the effects of a frontal boundary that stretches from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico. Deep moisture will flow northward with clouds increasing, we can expect the chance for showers and thunderstorms by late in the day. Temperatures will make it up to 25C once again. The showers will become a steady rain late in the day and into Thursday. Rain may be heay at times with in excess of 25mm (1 inch) possible. Friday looks wet as well with clouds and showers. The good news once again is that the weekend looks great. If so this will be the third in a row with sunshine and warm temperatures. Seems like a great way to start the summer, rainy during the week, sunshine on the weekends.

The most important weather forecast in history - D-Day 1944

Friday is the 70th Anniversary of one of the most important dates of the 20th Century, D- Day, June 6, 1944. The invasion of the Allied Forces at Normandy would be the start of the liberation of mainland Europe and the eventual end of World War II. On this day, I want to express my gratitude to all those brave men and women who paid and continue to pay the ultimate sacrifice so that we can enjoy our freedom. Without them, none of this is possible.

It would be one of the most important weather forecasts ever delivered throughout history. Nearly 160,000 Allied Troops, including 14,000 Canadians, would be relying on its accuracy. The entire free world had a interest in this forecast being correct. It was the forecast for the English Channel during D-Day, the Normandy invasion, in June 1944.

Supreme Commander of the NATO forces, General Dwight D. Eisenhower needed nearly ideal weather conditions to launch the invasion. The perfect day would have a full moon, low tides, clear skies, light winds and low seas. Two such periods matched the low tide scenario, but only one had the light of a full moon, June 5, 6 or 7, 1944.

Destroyed military equipment lies in the surf at Juneau Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944

The prognostication fell on the backs of a team of forecasters from the UK and the USA, sprinkled with a few other Allied forecasters. The forecast team was lead by British meteorologist James Martin Stagg. Stagg lead three teams of forecasters who would argue back and forth for days testing each others abilities and theories to come up with the right day for the invasion of the Normandy Coast. The safety of the troops and the effectiveness of an entire campaign lay at stake.

It was up to the forecasters to give the best idea as to which 24-hour period would be best to launch the invasion. Early forecasts predicted stormy weather for the time frame in question. Eisenhower wanted a Beaufort Scale wind of 4 or less to give the go ahead. Force 4 winds are 13-18mph with 3.5 to 5 foot seas. Anything greater than that would swamp the landing craft and sink vital equipment. The challenges were many, so the hope was to give the landing forces the best chance possible. Any type of cloud cover would hinder air support and limit paratroopers.

American Troops landing at Omaha Beach, June 6, 1944

The massive Allied Force of nearly 200,000 troops, with over 6500 ships and hundreds of aircraft, began staging as early as June 3 in what had been up to that point a decent stretch of weather. That was about to change, as a series of low pressure systems and fronts travelling across the North Atlantic was about to bring very poor weather. By June 4th, the weather had turned with strong winds, low visibility, high surf and heavy rain. Stagg approached Eisenhower with his advice to delay the invasion and despite the US forecasters insisting the weather was acceptable for an assault, the General decided to wait 24 hours. Thousands of troops remained in place on ships in rough seas for an additional day. The armada was deployed instead in the early hours of June 5 for the 17-hour trip across the English Channel and a June 6 sunrise assault. Despite the 24 hour wait the weather was less than ideal with 5 foot seas, but a vast improvement over the 6 or 8 foot seas and poor visibility during the previous 24 hours. To show how devastating it could have been, even the lower wave action swamped several of the landing craft and left at least 2 dozen tanks submerged at Omaha Beach alone. This would lead to little ground support for Infantry, and massive casualties to the US forces.

The Germans were caught by surprise, as their forecasters had told German command the bad weather would last well into June and thus prevent any invasion. The rest as they say is history with the invasion succeeding but unfortunately at a terrible cost with as many as 10,000 casualties (dead & injured), including 1074 Canadians (359 Canadian deaths). Eleven months later Germany would surrender. You can never downplay the importance of D-Day in bringing World War II to an end. One can only imagine how much worse the invasion would have gone had Eisenhower decided to leave on the 4th while the cold front whipped up heavy rain and strong winds with very highs seas and low visibility. Stagg’s forecast to travel in the relative good weather between low pressure systems on June 5, 1944 no doubt lead to the success of the invasion, as well as saving countless lives.

By the time the initial battle came to an end, the sun was shinning along the Normandy coastline.

Big storms sweep city Tuesday

Heavy thunderstorms produced flooding on the West Island Tuesday afternoon. (Global TV)

A line of strong thunderstorms slowly crept across the Island of Montreal yesterday afternoon with strong winds and torrential rain. I measured 33.6mm of rain on L'Ile Perrot in less than two hours but as much as 47mm fell in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue and across the West Island. It was a little too much water for storm sewers and flooding resulted. Several roads were closed temporarily while the water receded. A couple of trees were knocked down as well in Pointe Claire and Hydro Quebec reported nearly 30,000 customers without power. The temperature managed a muggy 28C before the storms hit around 1:30pm.

FUNNEL CLOUD?
The ragged base of the storm cloud had some scud on the bottom (wind driven cloud). This is often mistaken for a funnel cloud which is being reported today on many media outlets as well as social media. I did not observe a funnel cloud on my side of the airport, just scud, however information provided to Environment Canada suggest one may have occurred near Trudeau Airport around 2:30pm. It did not reach the ground, and no damage or rotation was reported.

Wet slow moving storms today for Montreal

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH metro Montreal for the day today for strong thunderstorms capable of heavy rain.

It has been a rather warm and muggy 24 hours in southern Quebec with temperatures in the low 30's on Monday afternoon. The warmth included a record 30.4C (87F) in both Ottawa and Montreal breaking the record high of 30C set back in 1970. Overnight lows remained very warm between 19 and 22C (66-72F). Today the region is expecting a cold front to slice through the muggy air this afternoon producing widespread showers and thunderstorms. I am not expecting severe weather with the storms today, that is hail or very strong winds, but the rain will be heavy. Some of the storms may produce upwards of 25-50mm (1-2 inches) of rainfall locally which could lead to some flash flooding in poor drainage areas. A watch or warning may be needed later today for portions of eastern Ontario and southwestern Quebec. Watch my Twitter feed for more details. Some sunshine may push us up to a muggy high of 27C (81F) today.

Once the front clears the region we can expect cooler temperatures on Wednesday, 22C, with showers and unsettled weather into Friday. The weekend is expected to be sunny both days with warm high temperatures of 27-30C (80-85F) both days.

Welcome to Meteorological Summer

Summer has arrived, at least according to meteorologists. Officially the summer solstice is June 21st, but the weather really starts to warm up quickly as of June 1st. Such was the case in Montreal this past weekend with much warmer temperatures in the middle 20's and total sunshine. It was a near perfect weekend. The good weather will continue into the start of the week, with even warmer temperatures today, along with an increase in humidity. We have an outside shot at the 1970 record high of 30C today, as we forecast highs near 29C (85F) for metro Montreal. Clouds will increase tonight, but it will remain warm and muggy with lows around 20C. Tuesday through the balance of this week will feature a very slow moving frontal system with cloudy skies along with frequent showers and thunderstorms. It will be warm on Tuesday in the middle 20's dropping to around 20C by Wednesday. The good news is that at this point next weekend looks sunny and warm.

With May over we can take a brief look at the numbers. It was a relatively warm month, even though it really did not feel like it. The average temperature was 14.4C at Trudeau Airport in Montreal, above the 20 year average of 13.4C. The highest temperature was 28.2C with the coolest 3.2C. Rainfall was measured at 95.6mm, the normal is 81.2mm. I had very similar stats at my home on L'Ile Perrot with extremes of 30.2C and 1.2C with an average of 14.4C and almost identical rainfall of 95.8mm.

Summer ice on Lake Superior. (NWS Marquette)

Here is some food for thought as we start summer, there is a blizzard warning in effect for Resolute, NWT today. At 6am this Monday, it was -4C, snowing with a visibility of 0.2km and 68km/h winds. The warning states to avoid all travel! On Lake Superior, ice continues to hug the southern shoreline. Despite the warmer weather huge chunks of ice are prevalent is many bays. The photos above are from the National Weather Service in Marquette Michigan.

Sunny & warm weekend for Montreal

Wow the sun came up today, imagine that! It will rapidly fade behind increasing clouds as a weak disturbance generates showers and scattered thunderstorms across eastern Ontario and southern Quebec today. Temperatures will be mild today at 19C (66F), but still below the normal high of 22C (72F). The good news is that skies will clear out this evening and overnight. There will be patchy fog as temperatures drop down to a cool 9C (48F). The weekend looks spectacular with wall to wall sunshine both days and high temperatures from 22 to 25C (72-77F). The next chance for precipitation will not come until early next week. Temperatures will trend at or slightly above normal.

Major damage on the Ross farm outside Kincaid, Saskatchewan on Thursday morning. Strong thunderstorms swept the region late Wednesday. 
(Photo: Krista Ross)

Saskatchewan Thunderstorms

Those of you who know me are aware of the fact that I lived in southern Saskatchewan for three years, working as a reporter for the Gravelbourg Tribune. I must tell you, they are some of the best people I have ever been among. I must also tell you it is a spectacular location, maybe the best I have been in, to watch thunderstorms develop and move around. This week was one of those occasions when a line of thunderstorms swept across the southwest corner of the province late Wednesday. They affected many communities I am so familiar with including Kincaid. The photo above was taken on the Ross farm located outside Kincaid. Damage resembles that of a tornado, but Environment Canada has yet to confirm such. The storms swept the southern half of the province with strong winds, hail and an impressive lightning display. 

You can see some amazing storm pictures and video from 
storm chaser Greg Johnson on his website, 
click here: TornadoHunter.com

Dismal weather - first tornado reported in Quebec

It has been a bizarre spring with highly variable weather across all of North America. Tornadoes, a Pacific hurricane, dust storms, hailstorms, snow, heat and cold all in the same month. I snapped this photo of rare, at least to Montreal, Mammatus clouds over L'Ile Perrot early on the morning of May 16.  (ValleyWX Photo)

 Weather is all about balance and the desire for the atmosphere to reach it. It rarely happens and so we are left with such variable weather conditions, at times over a very small region. Such has been the case this week as a backdoor cold front robbed Montreal of what was to be a sunny and warm start to the week. That weather remained close by in Ontario, and all we managed was 22C (72F) Monday, and a pathetic 12C (54F) on Tuesday. Most of the day was spent around 9C (48F) with light rain. If I sound bitter, that is because I am. I love summer, winter is way too long. Enough of this pseudo spring/summer we need the real thing! The west end of Montreal towards the Ontario border had scattered thunderstorms late yesterday, including one on L'Ile Perrot right around 6pm last evening. At one point yesterday afternoon, Montreal was 10C (50F), Ottawa 21C (70F) and Toronto 30C (86F). This morning we are looking at October like weather with drizzle, low clouds and a cool northeast wind. Temperatures are at 10C, the hope is some breaks in the sun this afternoon will help warm things up towards 17C. Skies should clear out tonight with a chilly low of 8C. That will leave us under sunny skies Thursday and a warmer high of 21C.

The first tornado of the season in Quebec occurred near Roxton Falls on Monday. The image above was taken near Laurierville. (Quebec Vortex.com Photo)

First 2014 Quebec Tornado
Along the boundary between this cold front and the warm air was a line of redeveloping thunderstorms, often running over the same area the last two days. The strong storms prompted a tornado warning in central Vermont on Tuesday. Speaking of which on Monday, southern Quebec reported its first tornado of 2014. A thunderstorm produced a weak EF-0 tornado (winds between 104 and 137km/h) near Roxton Falls, Quebec in the Townships. Environment Canada reported minor damage including a roof torn off a barn. Another tornado may have also touched down near Laurierville, but has yet to be confirmed. The storm was tracked by Quebec Vortex storm chaser, Marc Remillard (photo above).

More thunderstorms possible today for Quebec

A bright sunny day turned quickly late Sunday with the development of thunderstorms on L'Ile Perrot. (ValleyWX Pic)

It was not a bad weekend across southern Quebec, temperatures were rather warm with plenty of sunshine especially early in the day. There were also some decent thunderstorms around producing lots of hail in the Ottawa Valley on Saturday. We can expect another warm day today with an increased risk of showers and thunderstorms this afternoon. The trigger will be a backdoor cold front, one that moves from northeast to southwest across the St. Lawrence Valley. Temperatures today will reach 26C (79F), but will dramatically cool behind the front down to 14C (56F) tonight and not much better than 16C (61F) on Tuesday with showers forecast for Montreal. Wednesday looks like the best day of the week with sunshine and 21C (70F).

Thunderstorms produced lots of hail near Lachute, Quebec late Saturday afternoon. (via Twitter)

After a mainly sunny day Sunday in Montreal, a narrow but strong line of thunderstorms developed and rapidly moved across the St. Lawrence Valley around 6:15pm. There was lots of lightning on L'Ile Perrot along with gusty winds. Little rain fell with only 1.6mm at my home and 4.6mm at Trudeau Airport. The airport did report a wind gust to 65km/h with the storm. Some small hail was also observed across the West Island and off island to the northwest..

Best shot of the weekend showing Memorial Day beach goers lying on an icy stretch of Lake Superior in Marquette, Michigan where it was 86F on Sunday. Lake Superior still has lots of ice! (Twitter Pic via @GreatLakesBooks)

Storms miss Montreal - deep hail in Pennsylvania

It was another day of wild weather in many parts of North America on Thursday, but rather quiet across metro Montreal. A low pressure area over upstate New York produced showers and thunderstorms on Thursday from eastern Ontario into the Champlain Valley and then back north into southern Quebec south and east of Montreal. The odd movement of the thunderstorms circulating around the low pressure meant most of the storms stayed away from Montreal. While 25mm (1 inch) of rain or more fell towards the US border, I measured nothing at my home on L'Ile Perrot and only 1mm fell at Trudeau Airport. Storms south of the border dumped heavy rain in New York and Vermont (1-2 inches). Further south a tornado was reported near Albany, New York, and a severe hailstorm in southern Pennsylvania. The hail in Pennsylvania was the size of tennis balls at times near Lancaster and punched holes in car windows and the roof of a shopping mall. It also damaged the windshield on an inbound US Airways flight to Philadelphia forcing an emergency landing. Hail was several inches deep in may locations.

Deep hail covers the ground in southern Pennsylvania near Lancaster on Thursday. (The Weather Channel)

The same scenario will play out today with the upper level slow slowly spinning across New York with more showers and thunderstorms along the edge of the system. The greatest risk for showers in Montreal will be this afternoon with isolated thunderstorms. Like yesterday some of the storms may be strong with heavy rain and pea size hail possible. On Thursday a severe thunderstorm watch was posted for the region between Montreal and the US border east into the Townships. The only hail in our area on Thursday was reported near Newport, Vermont and along the US border near Stanstead. Temperatures will struggle to reach 20C with lots of clouds in Montreal today. Saturday looks a little better with more sunshine, a touch warmer at 22C, but still the risk of showers and thunderstorms. It should be sunny and dry on Sunday with temperatures up to 24C.

Showers & thunderstorms for Montreal

Yesterday was the fourth day in a glorious stretch of sunny and warm weather for Montreal. We managed 24C (76F) on Wednesday and we should get close to that as well today. An upper level disturbance in the atmosphere will slide across eastern Ontario and into New York state over the next 24 hours introducing clouds and showers to southern Quebec. The bulk of the activity today will be over Ontario but will expand into Montreal later this afternoon. It will not be a washout by any means but showers are possible right into Saturday. Skies will partially clear by Sunday and we can expect much warmer weather as we head into the last week of May, likely exceeding 27C (80F) next week.

Severe thunderstorms in the metro Denver area late Wednesday produced several inches of hail in some locations. (The Weather Channel via Twitter)

The warm air today will be across Saskatchewan and portions of southern Alberta where highs will reach 30C (86F). Yesterday very strong thunderstorms were reported across the southern Rockies northeast into the Great Lakes. A strong storm near Denver produced a tornado as well as several inches of hail. More storms will fire up today from Iowa towards the east coast as well as in southern Ontario.

Severe Weather Awareness - Watch vs Warning

A spectacular image of the only EF-5 tornado (winds in excess of 320 km/h) ever recorded in Canada. The storm struck near Elie, Manitoba on the afternoon of July 22, 2007. (The Weather Network)

With the late but violent arrival of severe weather across the US, it was only going to be a matter of time before we had some here in Canada. Last week the first Canadian tornado of the season was reported in Ontario. Tornadoes can and do occur just about anywhere in North America, but the really violent super cell thunderstorms capable of a major tornado are primarily confined to the central portion of the continent into the US southeast. Unlike a hurricane or snowstorm, tornadoes are very small in scale affecting a few miles to perhaps a few hundred miles in the most extreme case. What they lack in size they make up for in destruction with some of the strongest winds measured on earth. Because it is nearly impossible to measure wind speed in such a severe environment, a scale was created back in 1971 by Ted Fujita from the University of Chicago. Doctor Tornado, as he was known, was a pioneer in the study of tornadoes and estimated wind speed based on the damage he observed after the tornado struck. While modified in recent years, the scale is still used today, the Enhanced Fujita scale measure the storms on a scale of EF-0 to EF-5. The tornado last week in Mildmay, Ontario was an EF-1

The deadly July 31, 1987 tornado that struck Edmonton, Alberta was a powerful EF-4 storm that killed 27 people, injured 300 and destroyed 300 homes.

It is important that Canadians understand that tornadoes can and do occur in Canada. Environment Canada just completed a study on tornadoes in this country. Each year on average 62 such storms develop. The can occur in any province but are most common in Saskatchewan with an average of 18 per year, followed by Ontario with 12.5. Quebec has an average of 4.7 tornadoes, the majority of which occur in and around the southern portion of the province. Since 1980, Canada has reported 1217 EF-0 tornadoes, with EF-1 (478), EF-2 (119), EF-3 (24), EF-4 (5) and the strongest deadliest storm the EF-5, only 1 in Eli, Manitoba on July 22, 2007. There have been other very notable storms over the years including the deadliest ever in Regina, SK in June 1912. Other deadly storms included Windsor, Ontario in April 1973, Edmonton, AB in July 1987, Barrie, ON in May 1985 and Red Deer in July 2000 just to name a few.

WATCH VS WARNINGS
Environment Canada with the use of Doppler Radar, provides advance watches and warnings when tornadoes are possible. It is important as we head into the summer season for Canadians to understand the terminology they use when posting warnings. A severe thunderstorm watch occurs when conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms. It is just a watch, so go about your daily routine but keep and eye to the sky or your Smart phone with an app from The Weather Network or other weather provider. If thunderstorms develop on radar and become severe with strong winds (over 90km/h), heavy flooding rains or hail (greater than 2cm in diameter) a severe thunderstorm warning will be issued. Warnings are typically issued for a large geographic region, but the storm may only affect a portion of that region. Be vigilant just the same. Remember to seek shelter when storms occur as lightning remains one of the deadliest components of thunderstorms in Canada. I will talk more about lightning safety in a future post.

If weather conditions become more favorable for stronger storms with rotation, a tornado watch will be posted. They are rare in Canada but do occur. The watch will be for a larger area. If a warning is required it means you should find shelter immediately. A tornado warning will be issued, typically for a more precise area, if a tornado is observed on the ground or detected on radar. Tornadoes typically are short lived in Canada and cover a very narrow path. They are extremely violent with intense winds and very low pressure. You must seek shelter indoors and at the lowest level of the dwelling, away from any windows or doors. If outside find the lowest place to lie flat and cover your head. Many people think a highway underpass is a safe alternative in a tornado, they are not.

Please remember that if any day this summer looks particularly dangerous for strong thunderstorms, I will post an update in advance as well as post any watches or warnings via my twitter feed during the severe weather. Most weather apps have features now that will notify you when watches or warning shave been posted for your region.

Rainy 24 hours for southern Quebec

Dark clouds are on the western horizon this morning as a very slow moving cold front inches its way across Ontario towards metro Montreal. This front has been the focus for heavy rain along with some isolated thunderstorms. A conveyor belt of moisture stretches from Cuba to Ontario.Yesterday was a windy and warm day in southern Quebec with 29C (85F) at Trudeau Airport. As expected other areas were even warmer with St. Anicet at 32.9C (92F) and Cornwall/Massena NY at 33C (92F). It remains warm and muggy this morning in Montreal with clouds on the increase and temperatures already at 22C (72F) here on L'Ile Perrot.

The front pushing slowly across New York state and Ontario has been the focus for heavy rain since Monday. The picture above shows major flooding in Gowanda in western New York. (Gowanda Volunteer Fire Dept.)

The aforementioned front will take the next 24 to 36 hours to clear Montreal with rain at times heavy forecast to start this afternoon and only taper off Saturday. Environment Canada has posted a heavy rainfall warning for most of southern Quebec including metro Montreal for 40-70mm of rain (approx 1-3 inches). The ground remains saturated from recent snow melt so runoff could be fast with some flooding possible. Skies will turn partly cloudy by late Saturday and clouds and sun will mix for the balance of the long holiday weekend. It will be much cooler behind the front with temperatures only in the teens. The cool air behind the front is evident this morning in Toronto. Montreal is currently 22C (72F) while Toronto is 9C (48F). While portions of eastern Ontario were close to 32C on Thursday Toronto was only 19C. Behind the front very cold air is settling in with frost and freeze warnings in the upper Midwest and snow in northwest Ontario.

Warmest day of 2014 for Montreal on Thursday

A slow moving cold front is producing severe weather in Ontario and the US Midwest. This tornado formed near Cedarville, Ohio around 6pm Wednesday. (Photo Credit: Twitter @MarkBiddinger)

A warm front lifted its way north of Montreal on Wednesday leaving behind a warm and summery air mass. We managed a warm and humid 25C (77F) yesterday and the temperature is already 18C (65F) this morning. Look for a high of 28C (83F) in Montreal and perhaps even a few degrees warmer at some other southern Quebec locations. Winds will begin to increase from the southwest between 30-50km/h today ahead of a very slow moving cold front. That front has abundant moisture and plenty of thunderstorm activity along it that will arrive some time on Friday and remain with us through Saturday night. Heavy rain, perhaps over 25mm is possible late Friday. Temperatures will be warm today (28C) and tonight (20C) and cool to around 22C on Friday. The weekend at this time does not look great with showers expected and cooler temperatures.

This cold front has been affecting southwest Ontario and western New York as well as Ohio for the last three days. Heavy rain has produced flash flooding in western New York. On Wednesday numerous tornado producing thunderstorms were reported across central Ohio. Today more severe weather is likely in Ontario as well as NY, Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio. Environment Canada has confirmed the first tornado of the year in our country, an EF-1 storm capable of winds up to 177km/h touched down around 5:15pm on Tuesday evening near Mildmay, Ontario. Tree and structural damage was reported but thankfully no injuries.

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS

I am working on a blog entry that explains the frequency and risk of tornadoes in Canada as well as the difference between a watch and warning. I will be posting this by the weekend. Severe thunderstorm season is here, always be weather ready in the summer. Already we have seen two fatalities in southern Quebec as a result of strong winds. Two men fishing on the Lake of Two Mountains were killed last weekend when their boat capsized throwing them into the frigid waters. It is important to know the risk when you head outside each day, whether it simply be the UV index or the risk for lightning and strong winds..

Clouds showers and thunderstorms for Montreal

There is no snow in baseball! Coors Field home of the Colorado Rockies in the snow on Monday. (Rockies Twitter post)

A very weak backdoor cold front has slipped south across the St. Lawrence Valley this morning introducing a cool northeast wind in Montreal. A backdoor cold front is simply a boundary of cooler air moving from northeast to southwest, opposite of their typical movement in southern Quebec.The air behind the front is of marine origin, damp and cooler Temperatures are down from the low 20's we had Monday afternoon, sitting at 9C (48F) this morning on L'Ile Perrot.

That front has very little moisture associated with it but has brought lots of cloud cover along with a maritime air mass. Clouds will prevail for the day and for most of the week, temperatures will be cool today at 17C (63F). The front will wash out later today over New York state setting up a wind shift to the southwest and bringing back warmer air for Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures will be in the mid 20's both days with perhaps 27C if see a peek or two of sun. By Thursday a very slow moving cold front will produce showers and thunderstorms across southern Quebec and Ontario, lasting into the start of the long Victoria Day weekend. Thunderstorms will be more numerous today across southwest Ontario closer to the warmer and more humid air currently over the southern US. Some of the storms may be severe in nature with hail and high winds being the main threat especially from London to Windsor. Meanwhile snow is falling over northwest Ontario with 5cm in Kenora. The snow has finally come to an end in Denver and portions of Colorado and Wyoming. From 1-3 feet of snow fell across the region with less in the metro area of Denver. The good news is that highs will be close to 27C (80F) by the weekend.

A little taste of summer

It was a windy, warm weekend across southern Quebec with it feeling almost summer like from late Friday evening into late Saturday. A little sunshine and some humid conditions on Friday helped fuel some evening thunderstorm activity from eastern Ontario into metro Montreal. A few of the storms were on the heavy side with frequent lightning and heavy rain. Around 11mm fell in Montreal, but Ottawa and some eastern Ontario locations had over 25mm (1 inch) in just a few hours. Temperatures were rather warm on Saturday in the middle 20's and just a touch cooler Sunday under bright sunshine. It was a breezy weekend, 30-50km/h and that will persist into this week. A complex weather pattern this week with high pressure early in the week, and then a series of fronts producing showers and thunderstorms from Wednesday on. The warm weather will continue with highs in the low to middle 20's and lows around 10C.

An incredible amount of snow has fallen across the Rockies today as far south as metro Denver. The photo above was taken in Albany, Wyoming where 1-2 feet of snow fell today. (The Weather Channel - credit to robk2). Interstate 80 is closed  from Rawlings to Cheyenne because of May snow!

STRONG WESTERN STORM
A strong low pressure area in the US southwest is producing heavy snow across portions of the Rockies including a few inches in Denver. Upwards of 1-2 feet of snow has fallen across northern Colorado into Wyoming. Meanwhile east of the falling snow, warm and humid air is producing severe thunderstorms with tornadoes across Nebraska, Kansas and Iowa. Major damage was reported in several small Nebraska communities including Exeter and Sutton. I spent part of the evening watching the live feed from Greg Johnson at TornadoHunter.com and the storms were rather impressive. The good news is that despite all the damage in Nebraska today, thanks to advance warning of up to 15 minutes from meteorologists, no fatalities were reported.

Warmer weather slow to arrive

High pressure will settle across southern Quebec for the middle portion of the week with some much needed sunshine and relatively warmer temperatures near 17C (63F). The overnight hours will be chilly with lows near 2 or 3C. Environment Canada has an advisory out for the risk of scattered frost. There was a little this morning in off island communities north and south of metro Montreal. I recorded a low of 1.1C (34F) at 5:45 this morning on L'Ile Perrot with just a hint of frost on the car. The same will hold true for Thursday morning, with nothing but sunshine forecast today and a few increasing clouds later on Thursday. Warmer temperatures along with a few showers and thunderstorms are forecast for Friday and Saturday before we get a sunny and warm (21C/70F) Mothers Day. As a matter of fact most of next week looks warmer than normal as some of that sultry air that has been gathering over Texas begins to move northeast.

The view from the top of beautiful Mount Washington this past week. Winter remains in control on the top of the 6200 foot peak. Mount Washington is getting ready to start the new visitor season. It is well worth the trip. Look for more info HERE. (Mount Washington Observatory Photo) 

WINTER WILL NOT GO!
Winter is trying to hold on with snow over the weekend in Alberta and a big heavy wet snowstorm in Newfoundland Monday. Nearly 30cm of snow fell in Gander with 10cm in St John's. Closer to home Mount Washington, New Hampshire is only 25F this morning. They have had lots of snow, over 30cm (1 foot) in the past week and remain in winter mode for the time being in hopes of starting the tourist season by Memorial Day weekend. The 12.6 inches of snow to start the month of May is the most at the summit dating back to 2006. The mountain toll road remains closed to regular traffic as snow clearing operations continue.

Warmer weather this week for southern Quebec

Nearly 25cm of wet snow fell across southern Alberta this past weekend in what has been a stupid spring to say the least across most of the country. (CTV News)

The weather typically settles down in May after the turbulent and changeable month of April. This May, not so much so far with lots of rain and even snow this past weekend. Montreal had plenty of rain as a very slow moving upper level low moved from the Ottawa Valley to the Gulf of Maine. Another 25mm or so fell over the city this past weekend as our wet, cool spring moves along. We remain below normal in the temperature department with the flowers and trees seeming to be two to three weeks behind schedule. It looks a little better today in southern Quebec with showers tapering off by noon and perhaps a peek or two of sunshine this afternoon. Temperatures will try to go north of 12 or 13C. Cool tonight down into the middle single digits with followed by a mix of clouds and sun for Tuesday and highs near 13C again. It looks like sunshine and mild temperatures of 17C for Wednesday, it what will likely be the best day of the week and of the month so far. At this time the Mother's Day weekend looks like a split with showers on Saturday but sunshine and warm highs near 21C (70F) for Sunday.

The Trans-Canada Highway in southern Alberta on Saturday.

Over the weekend we had an incredible mix of weather reported across western Canada south into the southern US plains. Calgary and the Rockies had over 20cm of wet snow, this after highs in the low 20's Friday. The snow caused a host of problems from power outages and downed trees to numerous accidents across southern Alberta. The same system also produced snow across the Dakotas and thunderstorms across the central plains. While the snow was forecast in Alberta, strong winds and dry weather helped fuel a major brush fire in southern Saskatchewan outside Swift Current that threatened northern parts of that community late last Thursday. Meanwhile south Texas had record breaking triple digit heat over the weekend with highs in the 90's to over 100F in several locations across the western portion of the state. More heat and very strong, dry southwest winds are forecast today with an elevated fire danger over northern portions of Texas into Oklahoma. A major brush fire in Oklahoma on Sunday destroyed several homes and led to 1 fatality.

New month...same weather

The damage continues to mount up and down the Eastern Seaboard from heavy rain, flooding and tornadoes. This street in Baltimore collapsed onto railroad tracks as a result of heavy rain. (Washington Post)

If April showers bring May flowers, where are they? More importantly what do May showers bring? I have measured close to 50mm of rain (2 inches) here on L'Ile Perrot since late Sunday night. A little less at Trudeau Airport with close to 40mm. The rain for the most part has remained within the river banks in southern Quebec, with minimal flooding being reported along the shores of Lake Champlain and the Richelieu River as well as Lake of Two Mountains according to Urgence Quebec. Showers will continue this morning in Montreal. It is good to see April over, not a record cold month by any stretch with only around 1cm of snow for Montreal, but damp and dismal just the same. The average temperature at Dorval was 10.6C around 1 degree below normal. We only managed 1 warm day, actually just a few hours on April 14 when it reached 25C. Rainfall was abundant for the month at 135.8mm. The wet, cool start to spring has left little growing in my neighborhood with no leaves to speak of on any of the trees and very few plants flowering.

The weather will be damp again today with perhaps a few peeks of sunshine this afternoon. If we see the sun it will warm up to 16C. Enjoy it as cool and showery weather returns tonight and lasting well into Monday with temperatures around 12C for highs and 7C for lows. The culprit continues to be a slow moving upper level low over the Great Lakes. This system pumped copious amounts of tropical moisture up the entire east coast on Wednesday with major flooding rains from the Gulf Coast to New England and heavy rain pushing into Ontario and Quebec. The southern half of the system will move offshore today with improving weather for the deep south and middle Atlantic, while the actual low remains slow to traverse our area. I don't expect warmer or dry weather before next Tuesday.