Heat warning in effect for Montreal and Ottawa

Thunderstorms on Saturday afternoon across portions of southern Quebec only helped increase the humidity across the city. The warmest day of the current heatwave is forecast on Monday, with a high of 34C for Montreal. Overnight lows will remain sultry, dropping to 24C (76F).

Widespread heat warnings are in effect for southern Quebec including metro Montreal, eastern Ontario, including Ottawa and the Champlain Valley of New York and Vermont. The combination of very warm temperatures and elevated humidity will make it feel closer to 40C today. Drink plenty of water and relax outdoor activities when possible. Dry to spend a portion of the day in air conditioned space. Montreal is already at 23C (73F) at 6am.

Monday will be the warmest day of the current heatwave, with high temperatures expected into the middle 30s across portions of southern Quebec, along with high humidity. We can expect a record-breaking high of 34C (94F) in Montreal, which should surpass the previous benchmark of 33.4C set in 1999. Gusty winds are also expected today from the southwest 30 to 50km/h, helping to pull in tropical air from the Gulf of Mexico.

On Sunday, the heat and humidity built up quickly after the afternoon thunderstorms on Saturday. The high was 31.4C (89F) in Montreal, also a record for the date beating the 2005 high of 30.8C (87F). The storms on Saturday became rather strong for portions of the city, with close to 15mm of rain falling in less than 30 minutes at Trudeau Airport. Locally, some parts of Montreal received over 30mm, but I only measured 4mm here on Ile Perrot, as the storms passed northeast of my location. Strong winds were observed as well, along with frequent lightning. 

Monday should be dry for most of us, with just a slight risk of a shower or storm in the mountains well north and southeast of the St. Lawrence Valley. Showers and thunderstorms will increase on Tuesday ahead of a backdoor cold front. That front will cross the region early Wednesday, ushering in drier and slightly cooler air. Before then, expect a hot day Monday and Tuesday. The high on Tuesday will be near 31C, dropping to 30C for Wednesday. Overnight lows will be very warm, in the low to middle 20s in Montreal. Much cooler, more pleasant air arrives for Thursday, with a high of  24C (76F) forecast and lower humidity. 

Driest May on record for Montreal

The 5.6mm of rain that fell on Thursday in Montreal has knocked down the dust for few hours. Dry, hot weather is forecast to return by Sunday. The region desperately needs rain after a record-breaking low 12.1mm fell in Montreal for the entire month of May.

If your grass is turning brown, you're not alone, we need rain. Despite the 7.6mm that has fallen so far in June at Trudeau Airport, the region remains extremely dry for late spring. The month of May was the driest ever recorded in Montreal, with a paltry 12.1mm falling at the airport. That represents only 14 percent of the normal rainfall of 81.2mm. The 12.1mm easily crushed the previous record of 15.2mm set in 1982. Water levels are way down on area lakes and streams.

Many municipalities  have already put in place watering bans or restrictions for their residents. Some communities such as Vaudreuil-Dorion are strictly enforcing existing water bylaws concerning outdoor watering and filling pools. A permit is required from the city for newly sodded or seeded lawns. Water levels on the Ottawa and St. Lawrence Rivers are very low for this time of the season. Mariners have been advised to use extreme caution on the lakes, streams and Seaway.

Data collected for May in Quebec shows a serious deficit in rainfall across southern Quebec. Only 14 percent of the normal rainfall fell in Montreal. (Environment Canada)

The other issue had been extremely dry and dusty forests and brush that has resulted in an elevated fire risk across parts of central and southern Quebec and Ontario. The good news is the fire risk has lowered for the short-term after yesterday's modest rainfall of 5.6mm in Montreal and 9.6mm on Ile Perrot. Humidity levels will be on the rise as well for the next week or so, but so will the temperature. There will be an increasing risk of showers and thunderstorms through the weekend and late next week. As a result of the prolonged dry weather, caution should be used for any outdoor burning. Check with your municipality regarding any restrictions or permits needed.

First heatwave of the season on the horizon for Montreal

The first heatwave of the season is expected to begin this weekend across southern Quebec and persist into early next week. Temperatures in Montreal are forecast to reach into the middle 30s along with elevated humidity levels.

After a really odd month of May, June will start with a significant heatwave in the near-future for Montreal and most of eastern North America. The data is still being reviewed for May, but it was a month that feature record high and low temperatures. The extreme temperatures officially at Trudeau Airport were 31.5C (89F) and 1.7C (35F). It was a dry month to say the least, only 11.6mm of rain fell, making it the driest May on record for Montreal. You can see it in neighbourhood lawns, which if you are following water restrictions, are turning brown. Some rain is in the forecast both today and again Thursday. The Thursday system will be the leading edge of very warm, moist air, originating form the Gulf of Mexico. We may finally see a decent downpour, with perhaps as much as 25mm (1 inch) here in the St. Lawrence Valley. We really need it.

Once the rain ends early Friday morning, we are looking at at least a 5 day stretch of hot and humid weather. Temperatures will begin the period around 27C (81F), but rise into the low to middle 30s over the weekend and early next week. Humidity levels and dewpoints will be on the rise as well, making it feel rather uncomfortable and sticky through next week. Any relief in the form of showers and isolated thunderstorms may come by late Tuesday.

The combination of high heat and humidity will make it dangerous for many, so now is the time to install your air conditioners, get your pools ready and prepare for extended hot weather.

The location of the three EF-2 tornadoes that occurred on Tuesday, May 25. The data and map are courtesy of Northern Tornadoes Project at Western University.

Quebec Tornadoes

Adding to the strange weather month that May was, is the fact that the province has already recorded 4 tornadoes. Three of them occurred on May 25, well northwest of Montreal near Rouyn-Noranda. The storms occurred early in the evening along a strong cold front. Satellite data shows the first tornado, an EF-2 with 190km/h winds, occurred near Petit Lac Bull at 7:05pm. The second, another EF-2 occurred at Lac Des Deux Cantons, and the final tornado of the day at 8:25pm, was also an EF-2 near Lac Simpson. Quebec averages 4.7 storms for the entire year, with most of the severe weather season still ahead of us.

Strong thunderstorms - turning much cooler for southern Quebec

A spectacular sunset in Terrasee-Vaudreuil after a glorious Victoria Day Monday across southern Quebec. Skies were crystal clear all day along with light winds, low humidity and a high of 21C (70F). (Photo Tammy Arbour)

There is a risk of strong to severe thunderstorms this afternoon across the region.

It is a very warm and muggy morning across southern Quebec this Wednesday after a mild overnight. Early morning temperatures did not drop below 21C (70F) across the region. Clouds will mix with sun to start the day, followed by an increase in coverage of showers and isolated thunderstorms by early afternoon. It will be a very windy day, with gusts out of the southwest between 30 and 50km/h, increasing to 50 to 70km/h this afternoon.

The weather will be warm and humid today, with temperatures approaching 30C (86F) by early afternoon in Montreal. A rather vigorous cold front is forecast to cross the region late in the day. Ahead of the front, a line of showers and thunderstorms is expected to develop and move across the region from northwest to southeast. Some of the storms have the potential to become rather strong, with gusty winds being the main threat, but also small hail, dangerous lightning and heavy rainfall. The storms should taper off by sunset, with just a few scattered showers into the overnight period. We need any rainfall we can manage, as just 8.6mm has fallen at Trudeau Airport in May. If this holds, it will break the record for the driest May set back in 1982 when only 12mm fell.

Skies will clear out on Thursday, the weather will turn much cooler and drier, with daytime highs near 17C (63F). Overnight lows will drop down into the single digits Thursday night, with a risk of frost away from the urban areas. High pressure will dominate the weather into the weekend, with mostly clear skies along with slowly warming temperatures.

Warm summer-like week ahead for Montreal

A beautiful summer-like evening along the waterfront in Lachine. The weather has been spectacular as temperatures have warmed to well-above normal values for mid-May. The warm weather should last into the Victoria Day long weekend.

A weak cold front moved across southern Quebec overnight, with just a few isolated showers. Cloudy skies will clear quickly this morning and we can expect another sunny, warm afternoon. High temperatures have been in the mid to upper 20s across southern Quebec, and that trend is expected to persist. Highs will be close to 26C (79F) Tuesday, and up to 30C (86F) both Wednesday and Thursday.

The airmass will become a little more humid as we head into Friday and the weekend, with slightly cooler temperatures, along with an increasing risk of showers and thunderstorms. We really need some rainfall as the forests are drying out, and the risk of fire is very high currently in southwestern Quebec. Trudeau Airport has received only 5.2mm of rain to date in May. Even less has fallen in other parts of southern Quebec. This is well below the long-term May average of 81.2mm for Montreal. However, as we witnessed in April, it only takes a day or two to catch up, so let's hope some of those showers develop.

WESTERN SNOWSTORM

While Montreal enjoys our first hot weather of 2021, parts of northern Manitoba including Churchill are under winter storm warnings. Deep low pressure will bring a spring snowstorm to the northern Prairies. Between 30 and 40cm of snow is forecast over the next 36 hours along with winds of 40 to 70km/h and temperatures well-below freezing. At the same time, Winnipeg, in the southern portion of the province is forecasting a high of 30C (86F) today. Just another spring day in Canada!

Temperatures finally warming up in Montreal

The weather is finally starting to feel more like summer in Montreal.

It certainly has been a chilly start to May in Montreal, however the weather is expected to slowly warm over the next few days, starting Friday. High pressure is building into the region, but not without a few hiccups along the way. Frequent upper air disturbances in the atmosphere have been delivering afternoon showers and even the occasional rumble of thunder all week. That trend will persist into the weekend and even early next week. Any showers will be widely scattered, so most regions will remain dry through the period, but wet weather can't be completely ruled out. The best chance for any thunderstorms in Montreal would be Sunday afternoon into the early evening. During the weekend, we can also expect some gusty west winds, between 20 and 40km/h.

Despite the scattered showers, the region continues to be rather dry. Through May 13, Trudeau Airport has only measured 4.6mm of rain. As far as temperatures go, we are finally warming. The high Friday and into the weekend will be around 24C (75F). As we head into next week, we may even see our first 27C (80F) temperature in Montreal. Overnight lows will be seasonably chilly, in the 8C to 12C range (48F to 54F)

One final note, water temperatures around the entire region remain very cold, in most cases well below 10C (50F). Water temperatures that cold can cause hypothermia almost immediately. Last weekend a 28 year old father and his three year old son were killed on Lake Champlain after their kayak flipped. They succumbed quickly to the cold water despite the best efforts of first responders. It is advised that you remain out of the water for the time being. However if you do venture out, you should have cold water gear and always wear your life jacket.

Be safe, have a great weekend.

Our cool spring weather continues

Many parts of southern Quebec remain parched after an extremely dry March and April. The only exceptions are in eastern Quebec closest to the Atlantic Ocean. Central and western Quebec remain well-below normal in terms of rainfall, while Montreal was normal thanks to two days of heavy rain in April. The dry weather has led to a sharp increase in forest fire activity across the province of Quebec, with 127 fires to date in 2021. The ten-year average for the same period is 77 according to SOPFEU. (Environment Canada)

Many parts of southern Quebec had a touch of frost overnight as temperatures dipped to near the freezing point. It was 1C (34F) at my home on Ile Perrot Friday morning, with just a hint of ice on the car windshield. The weather remains very cool for early May, with temperatures running 5 to 10 degrees below the long-term average. Despite the clouds and damp weather, precipitation totals have once again been rather light to start May, as they were in March and April. To date only 2.8mm of rain has fallen at Trudeau Airport. 

April started very dry as well, but several impressive systems over the last two weeks of the month, actually brought precipitation to just above normal for Montreal. The deal was sealed on the last day of the month when 30mm of rain fell on Montreal last Friday. We ended the month with 83.7mm of precipitation, the normal is 82.2mm. That total included a few centimetres of snow just for good measure, actually more than what fell in March. Many parts of the province were very dry, which resulted in an above normal start to the forest-fire season. Trois Rivieres, northeast of Montreal, received only 15.6mm, or 20 percent of their normal rainfall. That amount was indicative of just how dry it was across west-central Quebec.

Unfortunately it appears our current weather pattern will remain in place for several more days. We are looking at another week of unsettled weather, with more clouds than sunshine and the occasional shower. Temperatures will remain below normal, with daytime highs between 10 and 15C (50 to 60F) and overnight lows between 2 and 7C (35 to 45F). There will be an ever present risk of showers or sprinkles, but the weather should be dry most of the upcoming weekend. The best day at this time appears to be Sunday. Breaks of sunshine may allow the temperatures to gain a few extra degrees. I see no serious heat in the forecast for at least the next ten days.

Extended period of wet weather forecast for Montreal

Rainy, damp weather is anticipated for the next 5 to 7 days across southern Quebec, with the only break coming on Saturday. The forecast rainfall will help return the region to near-normal precipitation for April.

We are making up for lost time in Montreal, after a very dry March and first half of April, the rain has returned to southern Quebec. Cooler, wet weather is anticipated on Friday and into early next week. On Wednesday, 5.4mm of rain fell at Trudeau Airport, bringing the monthly precipitation up to 47.2mm. The month started with 13 consecutive dry days. The normal precipitation for the month is 82.2mm, which usually includes 12.9cm of snow. Snow however has been sparse this Spring, Montreal has only received a 7.6cm of snow since March 1st.  

Thursday is expected to be mostly cloudy, with a few sunny breaks and a mild high temperature of 17C (63F). Clouds will thicken this afternoon and rain will begin this evening as low pressure moves from the Ohio Valley to theAtlantic coast. Abundant moisture is forecast to spread northward across New York and New England today and into southern Quebec. Expect a steady rain overnight in Montreal, tapering to showers Friday afternoon. Rainfall amounts will range from 20 to 30mm across southern Quebec, bringing Montreal very close to the normal precipitation for April. 

Showery, foggy weather will persist into the evening hours across the region, with even a few flurries mixing in at the higher elevations along the US border. Low temperatures will remain close to 10C (50F). The high will be much cooler on Friday, remaining steady near 10C, but dropping slowly in the afternoon. Winds will become quite strong from the west up to 60km/h in the afternoon. It will be a blustery, cold, damp day to start May.

Nicer weather returns for the first half of the weekend, with Saturday being the best day of the next 5 or 6 days. Expect partly sunny skies, but breezy and cool, with a high of only 10C (50F). Rain returns on Sunday, with scattered showers forecast for Monday through Wednesday.

Warmer weather to follow record snowfall in Montreal

The 5cm of snow that fell on Montreal on Wednesday was the most on April 21 in over a century. (ValleyWeather Photo)

After a very warm spring to date, residents of southern Quebec and Ontario were shocked by several centimetres of snow that fell on Wednesday and Thursday. It is not often the case here in Montreal that more snow falls in April than in March, but that is how the weather turned out in 2021. The 5cm of wet snow that fell on the city Wednesday set a new daily record. There has not been that much snow on April 21 in over 100 years, dating back to 1905. The 2cm of snow that remained on the ground Thursday morning, was the deepest snow measured at Trudeau Airport for any April 22 since 1955. Only 2.2cm of snow fell in Montreal the entire month of March.

Brief, intense snow squalls swept across the island of Montreal on Thursday morning. The quick burst of snow caught many motorists off guard, with numerous accidents reported, especially off-island to the west. (ValleyWeather Photo)

Snow squalls on Thursday morning were actually more disruptive than Wednesday's snow, especially in the western portion of Montreal and off island towards the Ontario border. A quick layer of snow coated roads and produced black ice during the morning commute. There were several major accidents reported. The snow showers tapered off in the afternoon, but the weather remained windy and cold.

Conditions have improved greatly on Friday, as the snow has melted, and temperatures are into the low teens. Low pressure remains to our northeast, so the winds are still gusting up to 50km/h. High pressure will give us a sunny, much warmer Saturday, with highs back into the upper teen and light winds.

A frontal boundary will approach southern Quebec on Sunday, with a renewed chance for showers and perhaps a thunderstorm. Temperatures will be near normal, with a high of 15C. We can expect temperatures to be cooler on Monday, but quickly warm back up to the upper teens and even lower 20s next week.

Spring snow on the way for Southern Quebec

Workers defy gravity as they begin to break up the winter snow piled several storeys high at the St Laurent dump on Thimens Boulevard. Colder weather this week and even the potential for some snow by Wednesday, should temporarily slow the melting process. (ValleyWeather Photo)

If you are one of the few who had hoped to see snowflakes fly just one more time in Montreal, then you are in luck. Otherwise, turn away now from this forecast. After what has been a fairly warm month, we are looking at the potential for accumulating snow this Wednesday.

The coastal system that impacted southern Quebec and new England on Friday, produced quite a bit of wet snow across the Townships and interior New England, however precipitation remained as rain for Montreal, with 25-35mm falling across the city. Colder air settled into southern Quebec for the weekend, under partly cloudy skies.

The storm in question is expected to develop south of the Great Lakes and move just south of Montreal on Wednesday. Colder air filtering into the region will change the rain to snow late Wednesday. (AccuWeather.com)

We are in for a mild start to the week, reaching 17C (63F) in Montreal on Monday, before a frontal system arrives late in the day. A few showers are possible this evening along with a rumble or two of thunder. Cooler, windy weather is forecast for Tuesday, with highs near 10C (50F) and winds up to 50km/h. The weather will turn quite active on Wednesday, as low pressure approaches from the Ohio Valley. The storm is expected to move across the southern Great Lakes and into northern New England on Thursday. A narrow swath of wet snow is forecast to fall along and just north of the storms track impacting southern Ontario and Quebec. At this time, rain is expected Wednesday in Montreal, changing to wet snow during the evening hours and ending early Thursday. Amounts are very difficult to predict at this time of year, and will depend heavily on when the changeover occurs as well as local elevation. There is a chance of 5 to 10cm of slushy wet snow along and just north of the St. Lawrence River.

While we have not had much in the way of snow since late February, it is not that unusual for Montreal to have snow in April. As a mater of fact the reverse is actually true, it has been rather rare in 2021 to not have any snowfall during March and April. A quick look at the statistics form Trudeau Airport shows that you have to go back to 2005 to find a year with no snow in Montreal in April.

Temperatures will be cold on Wednesday and Thursday, expect highs around 3C (37F) and low temperatures at or just below the freezing point. With the very mild weather we have experienced over the last two weeks, many trees and shrubs have started to bud or flower. The wet snow, frost and cold will not be good for any flowering plants. The good news is that temperatures will warm again quickly into next weekend, with highs back into the middle teens.

Rainy - cooler weather on the horizon for Montreal

Weather conditions have been extremely dry across southern Quebec, with only 0.4mm of precipitation falling at Trudeau Airport since April 1st. We do need the rain, and can expect 20 to 30mm on Thursday and Friday. The clouds and precipitation will result in much cooler temperatures than we have had recently.

The weather so far this April has been spectacular. Over the past week in Montreal, temperatures have been well above the long-term average, along with abundant sunshine. We can thank a blocking pattern over the North Atlantic that has managed to keep any adverse weather at bay. The storm track has been primarily to our west over central Ontario as well as across Atlantic Canada. Those regions have had a miserable April to date. Heavy snow and cold weather is occurring across the Prairies, while heavy rain, freezing rain and snow battered Newfoundland this week.

The weather however has been exceptionally dry in Montreal, with no precipitation since the wee hours of April 1st. For the month to date, a paltry 0.4mm of rain has fallen, along with a trace of snow. That is all about to change as an upper level low is forecast to move across northern New England over the next 24 hours. A general increase in clouds tonight, will be followed by rain on Thursday, persisting into Friday. We can expect a widespread soaking rainfall, with 20 to 30mm possible for Montreal. A second area of low pressure at the surface is expected to develop and move along the eastern seaboard into Maine on Friday. This storm system may even produce a period of wet snow across New England. Winter storm watches have been hoisted for southern Vermont as well as portions of New Hampshire and Maine. I am not expected any snow in Montreal.

The clouds and precipitation will however result in much cooler temperatures across southern Quebec, more inline with what you would expect for mid-April. Over the last week daytime highs have been running in the mid-teens to low 20s. The normal high and low for Montreal should be 11C (52F) and 1C (33F) respectively. On Thursday the high will be 10C (50F), even cooler Friday, with a high of 7C (45F). The weekend will remain unsettled and cool, with clouds and showers Saturday and perhaps some partial clearing by Sunday. There is even a risk of scattered frost this weekend in Montreal, as lows dip to near the freezing point.

Near-perfect early spring weather for Montreal

A spectacular spring sunset over the St. Lawrence River. The lack of precipitation this spring, combined with a very slow thaw, has resulted in no flooding to date. Water levels are being monitored, but are actually forecast to drop over the next few days on both the Lake of Two Mountains and Lac St. Louis.

High pressure will dominate the weather picture for the upcoming week across southern Quebec. Stubborn low pressure over Nova Scotia will ensure a damp, cool week for Atlantic Canada and portions of eastern Quebec, while allowing high pressure to remain stationary over our region. Some shower activity may even drift westward into the Eastern Townships. As far as Montreal is concerned, we will have nothing but sunshine, along with increasing warmth.

Our snowstorm forecast for last Thursday turned out to be a non-event, as the system remained well to the east of Montreal. Portions of the Townships and Vermont reported as much as 10cm of snow, while Montreal managed less than 1cm. The sun returned by the end of the day followed by a very pleasant weekend, cold Friday and Saturday, but warming up nicely on Sunday.

The forecast for the week ahead is simple, sunny skies, with no precipitation expected. High temperatures will start the week in the lower teens, but rise to near 20C by Friday. Overnight lows will be 2 to 6C. 

The low relative humidity and gusty winds forecast for Monday, will mean an increase in fire danger. There is an abundance of dry leaves and other combustable material present, and any fire may quickly become out of control. Many areas are advising against outdoor burning, including southwestern Quebec, eastern Ontario and all of New York and Vermont.

The weather has been extremely dry across southern Quebec so far this spring. Only 2.2cm of snow fell in Montreal in March, a new record low. The previous record was 2.6cm set in 2009. Total precipitation for the month of March was 50mm, well below the normal of 69.1mm. So far April has only yielded 2.4mm. No rain is forecast through at least Saturday.

Spring snowstorm on the way for southern Quebec

You may want to wait just a few more days before removing your winter tires. Montreal has enjoyed a very easy end to winter so far, with only 2.2cm of snow measured at Trudeau Airport during the month of March. That is about to change as a potent cold front and developing east coast storm are forecast to bring steady wet snow to southern Quebec on Thursday.

Despite sunshine and temperatures in the middle teens Tuesday afternoon in Montreal, we are looking at a spring snowstorm starting late Wednesday and persisting into Thursday. Before then, we can expect fair skies and mild temperatures through Wednesday afternoon. A potent cold front is forecast to approach from the west Wednesday afternoon, passing across southern Quebec in the early evening. Rain is forecast to develop across southwestern Quebec along with dropping temperatures throughout the evening. 

A special weather statement has been issued for southern Quebec including Montreal for up to 10cm of snow on Thursday. In northern New York and Vermont, a winter storm watch is now in effect, with 10-25cm possible. (AccuWeather.com Image)

High temperatures on Wednesday will reach a mild 14C (56F) by midday before the arrival of precipitation. Afterwards expect a steady fall to the freezing point by midnight, with rain changing to snow. The front will become stalled across eastern New England, as low pressure develops over Delaware and moves northeast towards Maine. Steady wet snow is expected in the St. Lawrence Valley through the day Thursday, with early estimates of 10-15cm for the region. Across portions of the Townships and Adirondacks of New York, 15-25cm is possible. Travel will be difficult on Thursday. 

The snow will taper off to flurries late Thursday in Montreal, with partly cloudy skies and cold temperatures expected during the overnight period and Friday. Lows will be down to -10C (14F) by Friday morning. The snowy, cold weather will be short-lived, as sunshine and mild temperatures return for the weekend.

The strong cold front expected to sweep Ontario and Quebec is part of the same storm system that hammered parts of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan on Monday with hurricane force winds and heavy snow. A peak wind gust of 159km/h (98 mph) was observed on Nakiska Ridgetop just west of the Kananaskis Village in Alberta. In Saskatchewan, winds reached 120km/h (75 mph) at Swift Current. Parts of the Trans Canada Highway were closed for hours as the wind and heavy snow made for near-zero visibility. The sudden cold was in stark contrast to the record highs that occurred just a few hours earlier on Sunday afternoon.

Unsettled weather week ahead for southern Quebec

Strong west winds of 50 to 80km/h are forecast for Montreal Sunday night into Monday, along with rain changing to snow showers after midnight.

March and April can be volatile months as the seasons battle it out. We have already witnessed very active and highly variable weather in southern Quebec over the last week, and this trend will continue. Strong low pressure is lifting northwest of Montreal Sunday afternoon, accompanied by another round of heavy rain and strong winds. After the 20 to 30mm of rain that fell on the city Friday, we can expect another 10 to 20mm through Sunday evening.

Another round of steady rain is expected Sunday afternoon into the evening hours along with very strong winds. The rain may end as a period of light snow after midnight in Montreal.

The big weather story for the St. Lawrence Valley with the current storm, will be the strong winds that develop late this evening. A cold front will sweep across southern Quebec by midnight, ushering in the strong winds along with much colder temperatures. Winds will increase out of the west and northwest, between 50 and 80km/h. The gusty winds will persist into Monday, along with any leftover rain, changing to snow. The temperature will fall from 10C (50F) Sunday afternoon down to -2C (28F) by Monday morning.

Monday will be very windy and cold, with flurries and high temperatures struggling to reach plus 3 or 4C (37 to 40F). The cold air will be short-lived as temperatures are forecast to rebound by Tuesday, with highs up to 13C (55F) under fair skies.

Spring Snow

As we look ahead, another very strong cold front is forecast to cross the region late Wednesday evening. Low pressure is also expected to develop in southeast New England. The combination of deep Atlantic moisture and colder temperatures may bring us a period of rain changing to snow Wednesday night. There is a possibility of accumulating snow into Thursday morning for parts of southern Quebec and eastern Ontario. The evolution of this system will have to be closely monitored.

A very rare March tornado damaged this home in Middlebury, Vermont on Friday afternoon. The EF-1 rated tornado cut a swath of damage a mile long. On average the state only reports one tornado each year usually during the summer months. An EF-1 tornado is capable of winds up to 177 km/h. (WPTZ Photo)

Severe Weather & Tornadoes

We are not the only region with stormy weather. On Friday, severe thunderstorms across Vermont produced a very rare March tornado. The EF1 rated storm cut a swath of damage 1 mile long near Middlebury in the west-central portion of the state, approximately 200km south of Montreal. Several homes were damaged with at least two injuries reported.

Meanwhile the southern US has been experiencing severe weather, with dozens of tornadoes and flash flooding. Tornadoes on Thursday and Friday were responsible for several fatalities in Alabama. While strong thunderstorms put down over 125mm (5 inches) of rain in Nashville on Saturday. The heavy rain produced widespread flash flooding with at least 4 fatalities reported. Hundreds needed to be rescued from their vehicles and homes as a result of the flooding in Nashville and across Tennessee.

Overnight thunderstorms rattle the Montreal region

The first thunderstorms of the season rumbled across southern Quebec overnight, waking up many in the Montreal region. More isolated storms are possible tonight and Friday, especially south of Montreal. 

Heavy rain warning for Montreal

As written Wednesday afternoon on this very blog, we had some bone-rattling thunderstorms overnight. One particular lightning strike at 3:25am seemed to wake up the entire West Island as well as off-island communities. Social media lit up immediately with theories as to what the loud sound was. It certainly rattled the windows on Ile Perrot, shook the entire house and set off car alarms, but it was not an earthquake or aliens. It was simply a rare March nocturnal thunderstorm.

A warm front lifting across southern Quebec was the culprit. The cold dense air at the surface was being overridden by very warm air higher in the atmosphere. The thunderstorms were not that intense in nature, with very little wind and only 5mm of rainfall on Ile Perrot. What the storms did have was some pretty intense lightning and thunder. The thunder was capped by the warm air aloft and reverberated back to the surface making the rumble seem much louder and longer than usual. With the cold air at the surface and warm air above it, the warm air will act like a ceiling, or insulator to things like sound waves. The sound from the thunder will hit the bottom of the warm layer and bounce back to the ground. This was not your typical warm, humid summer afternoon storm. So if anybody asks you what that was, you definitely have the answer.

We will have a very warm and windy day in Montreal, with winds increasing to 50km/h out of the southwest. We can expect a record high of 21C (70F). A strong spring storm arrives on Friday, with heavy rain and gusty winds. Rainfall warnings are in effect for Montreal and southern Quebec, with up to 40mm possible. North of Montreal freezing rain and even wet snow is forecast. Temperatures will cool off considerably from Thursday, with highs struggling to reach 10C (50F) in Montreal, and dropping to the freezing point into Saturday. The weekend will be even colder, with flurries possible.

You have to love March in Montreal, never boring.

Weather whiplash - from record spring warmth to snow

A warm front may produce some scattered thunderstorms across southern Ontario and Quebec late Thursday and early Friday morning. Record warm air will then surge into Montreal on Thursday.

Montreal managed to sneak in a record high on Tuesday afternoon, reaching 19C (66F), surpassing the previous mark of 18.6C (65F) set in 1979. It was our second record high this month, with a third likely on Thursday in Montreal as temperatures are expected in the upper teens and even low 20s. The record to beat for March 25 is 16.7C (61F) set in 1996. Before then, a warm front will lift across southwestern Quebec Wednesday evening and overnight. We can expect some much need showers and even a few scattered thunderstorms. Thursday will be partly sunny, breezy and very warm, with gusty southwest winds pulling in the warmth from the deep southern US. Enjoy Thursday, as the weather will turn stormy into Friday. 

The first of two strong low pressure systems will move across southern Ontario and Quebec on Friday, accompanied by much cooler temperatures, strong winds and heavy rainfall. There may even be some wet snow in some locations. The second storm on Sunday may bring more snow to the region.

SPRING SNOW

I really thought we would end the month quietly, but it appears it may go out like a lion. We have a pair of storms forecast to impact southwestern Quebec starting Friday, along with much colder temperatures. The first system will deliver a steady rain and strong winds Friday, with as much as 35mm of rainfall. The high will drop down to 9C (48F), with overnight lows Saturday morning near the freezing point. Even with the heavy rainfall, I am not expecting any flooding at this time as it has been a very dry month to date. Only 9.8mm of precipitation has fallen at Trudeau Airport. The rain will taper off to a few showers or perhaps even some flurries by Saturday morning. We will have a brief break Saturday afternoon before the second system arrives.

A second potent storm will move across the Great Lakes and close to Montreal late Sunday into Monday. Computer models have been having a difficult time with the exact track of this storm. The European model is even hinting at a decent snowstorm for parts of our region. At this time, I am leaning towards a warmer solution, with mostly rain for the city. We are expecting another 15-20mm of rain, however that may change depending on the actual storm track.

We can expect some wet snow as well at the onset of the precipitation. Parts of southern Quebec, especially north of Montreal, may see a significant wet snow event. Temperatures will be much colder Sunday, with a high of 4C (39F) expected. Overnight lows will likely drop to near the freezing point.

Conditions should begin to improve late Monday, with temperatures closer to normal.

It looks like a tranquil end to winter in Montreal

A massive winter storm dumped nearly 70cm (27 inches) of snow on Denver, Colorado last weekend. It was the fourth largest storm in that cities history. The snow closed the airport and numerous highways across the state and into neighbouring Wyoming and Nebraska. The storm was expected to being some snow to our region, but will now pass well south of Quebec on Friday. (Colorado State Patrol)

Astronomical spring officially arrives at 5:37AM Saturday morning, along with very mild weather. March has been a tame month all around, and it appears it will remain that way right to the end. I am not saying it is not possible to get a sneaky snowfall or two between now the end of April, it usually happens, but for now no major storms are on the horizon. Dare I say winter may be over! March to date has been extremely dry, with only 7.4mm of rain and 2.2cm of snow. The long-term average is 29.7mm of rain and 36.2cm of snow for the entire month.

Skies are clearing Thursday afternoon, as high pressure moves into southern Quebec. It is expected to remain in place through at least next Wednesday. A strong late winter storm, responsible for several feet of snow in the US Rockies last weekend, is sliding well south of Quebec today and Friday. As mentioned the storm produced record snowfall, and at least two dozen tornadoes Wednesday across portions of the central and southern US. The low will move off the east coast Friday, brushing parts of eastern Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, with snow and blowing snow.

As high pressure arrives in Montreal, we can expect breezy conditions and cold temperatures on Friday. Lows will be around -13C (9F) in the city, with daytime highs around -1C (30F). Gusty northwest winds up to 40km/h will make it feel even colder. The cold weather will be short-lived. Temperatures will warm quickly on Saturday, with a high of 8C (48F). Looking ahead, Sunday through next Tuesday will be mainly sunny and very mild in Montreal, with highs into the double digits reaching 15C (59F). 

SPRING FLOODING?

With very light precipitation this month as mentioned, and the relatively slow thaw we have been experiencing, water levels around southern Quebec are stable at the moment. There is no immediate threat of flooding. However that could change as river ice melts or if we have significant precipitation. So for the time being have your flood plan ready, and remain vigilant. The Quebec Government has an excellent resource page HERE. It is also advised at this time that you remain off any ice, as the spring thaw is well underway across southern Quebec.

A return to colder weather for Montreal

With spring a little over a week away, area waterways are becoming increasingly dangerous. The warm weather this week has allowed the ice to slowly begin the break-up process and become unstable in places. The water is icy cold and  flowing fast. Be vigilant along the shore and stay off the ice.

Our preview to spring is just about over in eastern Canada. The high in Montreal on Wednesday was 9C (49F), just shy of the record high for the date. We have a much better chance of reaching the record today, 11.2C (52F) set back in 2012. The forecast is for a high of 10C (50F), however there is a good chance we will surpass that. As I write, St Anicet, 70 kilometres southwest of Montreal is already at 14C (58F), while Ile Perrot is 7C (45F), so the warm air is close by. Partly cloudy skies are forecast, with just the chance of an isolated sprinkle or shower.

A strong cold front will usher in arctic air and gusty northwest winds Friday. The cold weather will persist this weekend before temperatures rebound next week. (AccuWeather)

Both Toronto and Ottawa are very mild as well, with record warmth expected in both cities today. Ottawa should reach 14C, easily surpassing the record of 10.5C set in 1977, while Toronto is already 15C, expected to reach 19C (66F) today, surpassing their record high of 17.7C set in 2012. The warm air has also broke numerous records across New England, the Ohio Valley and Northeastern US.

As with every spring season since the dawn of time, the warmth won't last. A rather strong cold front will cross the region Friday afternoon, ushering in an arctic airmass. The high on Friday will be reached just after midnight, with temperatures dropping through the day and into the evening hours. The low by Saturday morning will be near -10C (14F). Accompanying the cold front will be scattered showers, changing to flurries, but precipitation should be light. Gusty winds are also expected on Friday and Saturday, in the 30-60km/h range. The wind will make it feel very cold, especially after our current temperatures.

The mild weather this week has very slowly started melting away the deep snow and ice in Montreal. Keep this in mind if you are near any body of water. The ice is already becoming unstable and dangerous.

Milder weather is expected by the middle of next week, but we are also watching a potential storm by the end of the week. Stay tuned, I believe winter is not done just yet.

Windy arctic front to start meteorological Spring in Montreal

A potent warm front delivered over 10cm of wet snow to Montreal on Saturday, February 27. The snow caught many by surprise, creating very poor driving conditions during most of the day. (Valley Weather Photo)

Arctic cold front arrives late Monday.

Poor road conditions are possible Monday afternoon and evening, as 2 to 5cm of snow are possible along the cold front, as well as a flash freeze due to sharply falling temperatures.

Sunday was spectacular as warm sunshine pushed the temperature up to 6C (43F) on Ile Perrot, as we say goodbye to meteorological winter and hello to spring. There was plenty of melting just 24 hours after a rather strong warm front delivered 10cm of snow to Montreal. The snow was heavy and wet and not really expected. The snow should have changed to mostly rain in Montreal almost immediately, but marginally cold air allowed the precipitation to remain as all snow for the duration, with just some light rain mixing in as the front lifted north of the city.

A weak area of low pressure is now forecast to move across southern Quebec Sunday evening, accompanied by light precipitation, mostly in the form of rain. There is even a slight chance of a rumble or two of thunder, especially across eastern Ontario. Gusty winds are also expected to develop this evening, reaching as high as 90km/h southeast of Montreal in the Richelieu Valley.

ARCTIC FRONT

On Monday, a strong arctic boundary will approach southern Quebec, bringing an abrupt end to our early spring weather. Much colder air will pour into the region as the day progresses, with a very mild high of 4C (39F) reached early in the day. As the main arctic boundary crosses the region late Monday afternoon, frigid air will pour in, accompanied by scattered snow showers. Some of the snow showers may be briefly heavy, with blowing snow and reduced visibility. Winds will veer back to the northwest and gust to 60km/h into the overnight hours Monday. Temperatures will plummet down to -5C (23F) by the late afternoon, and -16C (4F) by Tuesday morning. Tuesday will be sunny, but breezy and unseasonably cold, with a high of -8C (18F).

Unsettled but mild weather ahead for Montreal

Crews were busy over the weekend removing some of the mounds of snow in the AMT parking lot in Vaudreuil. Over 100cm of snow has fallen across southern Quebec since early January. With temperatures largely remaining below freezing over the last few weeks, much of the snow remains on the ground. The current snowpack of 42cm at Trudeau Airport is the deepest in over a decade. (Valley Weather Photo)

Could we be looking at the end of winter already? A very mild period of weather is forecast across southern Quebec over the next week and perhaps even longer. Temperatures will be at or slightly above the freezing point as we head towards the start of meteorological spring on March 1st. While it has not been a particularly difficult winter, the last few weeks have still seemed rather snowy and cold in Montreal. We have been lucky this winter as the strongest storms and bitter cold have stayed away form southern Quebec.

That being said, since January 1st, the temperature has risen above the freezing point on only eight days in Montreal, and always between 0 and 3C (32 to 38F). In that same period, close to 108cm of snow has fallen at Trudeau Airport, with even more in other locations around the city. Combine that with the lack of a prolonged thaw, and we have a very deep snowpack around southern Quebec, officially 42cm at Trudeau, but much deeper in many other locations. Let's all hope for a slow, prolonged thaw to avoid any flooding this spring. 

While the weather will be milder, we are still looking at some snowfall over the upcoming week. A series of rather weak clipper type systems is expected to move along the international border from southern Alberta into Atlantic Canada. These moisture starved systems tend to deliver at best 5 to 10cm of snow along their tracks. One such system on Monday brought 3 to 5cm of snow to southern Quebec. Another is expected Wednesday afternoon with a third by the weekend. Light snow is expected late Wednesday, with perhaps a few centimetres accumulation in Montreal, with more north of the city. Temperatures will be above the normal high/low of -2C/-11C over the next week, with the exception of a 24 hour shot of cold air behind Wednesday's clipper. That cold air will result in a daytime high of only -5C (23F) on Thursday along with brisk northwest winds, it will however be sunny. The good news is the temperature should be back above normal on Friday and remain that way into next week. 

Snowy week ahead for Montreal

A stormy weather pattern will prevail across eastern Canada over the next week. Expect two major systems to impact Montreal. The first arrives late Monday, with 10 to 20cm of snow forecast for the region.

Two major storm systems are set to impact Montreal and southern Quebec over the next week. This is all part of the series of winter storms that have been moving around the periphery of a cold dome of arctic air that has descended upon the central portion of the continent. The cold has sent sub-freezing temperatures all the way to the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Coast. The fist storm is spreading snow and freezing rain from southern Texas all the way into New England. The second storm is currently delivering heavy snow to the Pacific northwest including southern coastal British Columbia. Victoria reported 14cm of snow on Saturday, while 9cm fell in Vancouver. It is still snowing Sunday morning. Just about very US state has some sort of weather warning, while the Canadian Prairies remain locked into an icy -25C to -40C cold snap for the eighth consecutive day.

Two storms this week for Montreal

We can expect a sunny Sunday, with temperatures rather comfortable, up to -7C (19F). On Monday, look for increasing clouds, followed by snow. The snow will become heavier during the evening hours with 10 to 20cm expected by the time the precipitation ends on Tuesday. The heaviest amounts will fall along the US border, with less than 10cm expected north and west of Montreal. Temperatures will be rather mild during the storm, around -3C (27F) on Tuesday. They will however turn colder again on Wednesday. A second storm is expected to arrive by late Thursday. This winter storm is expected to travel closer to Montreal, with perhaps a mix of freezing rain and snow. Many details still need to be sorted out on type and quantity of precipitation, but I am quite confident that we will be impacted one way or another. Expect several days of snow covered roads and reduced visibility over the next 5 to 7 days.

If you have to drive anywhere during the week ahead, please pay close attention to the lasted forecast details, as well as any weather warnings that may be issued.

Frigid February weather from coast to coast in Canada

A record-breaking cold snap has nearly half of Canada shivering in minus 20 and 30 degree temperatures. The cold will return to Montreal Thursday night and into the upcoming weekend, with lows down to -21C (-6F) in the city and daytime highs in the minus teens.

A significant record-breaking cold snap is underway across most of western Canada. Temperatures have dropped into the minus 20s and 30s for highs and down as cold at the minus 40s for lows over the past week. The arctic air has been in place since last weekend and is now starting to spread east into parts of Ontario and Quebec.

A very stormy and cold weather pattern will persist, with frigid cold for many and a line of snow and freezing rain persisting around the periphery of the cold dome of air. Taking a look at just how cold it has been, Key Lake, Saskatchewan recorded a low temperature of -47.6C (-53.7F) on Wednesday morning, just one of 16 record lows in that province. For reference, the coldest low on record for Montreal, was -37.8C (-36F) set in January1957. In Alberta over 53 record lows have been established since last weekend, with 11 in B.C. and 3 in the Yukon. The cold in many cases has been accompanied by gusty winds and windchill values as low as the -50s. Even coastal B.C. is below freezing, with a major snowstorm expected this weekend for Vancouver and Victoria. Quebec even got in on the cold Wednesday, with windchill readings of -41C at Matagami and -36C at Val d'Or. Widespread extreme cold warnings cover nearly half of Canada.

A major accident on Interstate 35 near Fort Worth,Texas on Thursday, claimed the lives of 5 motorists. The region has been affected by the same frigid air mass affecting most of western and central Canada. (Fort Worth Fire Department Photo via Twitter)

The frigid air has spilled into the US as well, with ice and snow as far south as Texas and freezing temperatures towards the Gulf Coast. The harsh winter weather has produced extremely dangerous driving conditions in many locations. On Thursday morning a multi-vehicle accident involving over 75 trucks and cars resulted in serious injuries and the deaths of at least 5 motorists. More snow and ice is forecast to spread into the Ohio Valley and along the east coast this weekend.

Cold & snowy Montreal

We have a very active weather pattern ahead in Montreal as well. It begins Thursday evening, with bitterly cold temperatures, the low dropping to -21C, with windchill values close to -30C. Friday will be sunny, but cold, remaining in the minus teens. A weak weather system will bring up to 5cm of snow Saturday night tapering to flurries on Sunday. A much stronger storm system is possible early next week, with yet a third storm by Friday. The last system is too far off in the distance for precise details, but expect the weather to be quite challenging over the next two weeks.

Parade of weak storm systems along with seasonably cold air for Montreal

A burst of heavy snow moved across southern Quebec including metro Montreal on Friday morning. The weak weather system put down a quick 5-7cm of snow across the region. Roads became snow covered quickly along with reduced visibility. The result was numerous accidents on Quebec highways. Be prepared for similar weather this week, with three storm systems set to bring snow on Sunday, Tuesday and Friday. (Valley Weather Photo)

Regardless of what the groundhog had to say last week, winter is here to stay in southern Quebec for awhile. While Montreal will escape the worst of the current cold snap and the heaviest now over the next week, the weather will still feel like mid-winter. 

Arctic air is pouring into the central part of Canada Sunday, and surging across the Great Lakes into the northern US. Widespread extreme cold and wind chill warnings are posted from the Rockies into Ontario and south into the bordering US states. Temperatures this morning were close to -40C on the central Prairies, even colder when you factor in the wind.  That frigid cold will remain across western Canada for most of the upcoming week. Meanwhile the main storm track lies along and just to the south of the leading edge of the arctic airmass. Several low pressure systems will travel along that boundary, and produce snow across eastern Ontario and southern Quebec, along with heavy lake effect snow squalls south and east of Lakes Ontario, Erie and Huron. 

In Montreal, we are looking at a fairly mild Sunday, with a chance of 2 to 5cm of light snow this afternoon, ending by midnight. While accumulations will be light, we saw last week that it does not take much snow to create havoc on area roads. A quick hitting 5cm of snow Friday produced numerous major accidents including a 40 vehicle pile-up on Highway 40 east of Repentigny.

Skies will clear out partially on Monday, along with much colder temperatures. On Tuesday, another weak storm system will deliver 5-7cm of snow to the region, followed by more modified arctic air. High temperatures this week will be seasonably chilly with highs of -6 to -8C and lows of -12 to -15C. By the end of the week, a stronger storm may deliver more snow, perhaps in excess of 10cm, followed by much colder air, More details to follow.

Powerful Nor'Easter to impact Montreal

Heavy snow has accumulated nearly 75cm in parts of New Jersey on Monday. The powerful nor'easter will begin to affect southern Quebec early Tuesday. (WCBS) 

Winter Storm Warning: Vaudreuil-Dorion, South Shore, Eastern Townships and Quebec City

Special Weather Statement for Montreal.

 A strong Nor'Easter currently located south of New York City, is forecast to lift slowly towards the north tonight and into eastern Maine on Tuesday. The storm has been responsible for heavy snow across New York and New Jersey today, with as much as 75cm in New Jersey, and 40cm at Central Park. Strong winds up to 70km/h have produced near blizzard conditions in several locations.

The snow is now spreading into southern Vermont moving north towards the Canadian border by dawn on Tuesday. Montreal will remain on the northwest edge of the heaviest snow, with 10-15cm expected through Wednesday morning. However, just south of the city along the south shore, Vaudreuil-Dorion and towards the US border, a winter storm warning has been issued for 15-25cm. 

Strong northeast winds are expected as well, gusting between 50-70km/h. Wind gusts may reach 100km/h in the Quebec City region. The winds will produce blowing snow, especially off-island. The heaviest snow is expected south and east of Montreal, with amounts tapering off quickly as you head towards the Ottawa Valley. Expect very poor travel conditions on Tuesday through the evening hours and into Wednesday morning.

East coast storm to deliver snow to southern Quebec

A strong winter storm will produce heavy snow and strong winds across the eastern seaboard on Monday and Tuesday. The snow will arrive in Montreal in the wee hours Tuesday morning, with 10-15cm forecast at this time.

It was a bitterly cold weekend across southern Quebec. Temperatures struggled to rise into the middle minus teens for daytime highs, while dropping into the minus 20s for overnight lows. Sunshine on Sunday eased the chill, but it was still the coldest morning of the winter for most. Morning lows across metro Montreal Sunday were between -21C and -23C. I recorded -23C (-9F) here on Ile Perrot. It was colder off-island, with Vaudreuil at -24C (-11F), Sherbrooke -29C (-20F) and Mont Tremblant -30C (-22F). Monday morning will not be as cold for most, but it will still drop close to -20C. Conditions will improve on Monday, under fair skies, with daytime highs near -8C (18F).

Our attention then turns to a rather complicated storm system that is delivering heavy snow from the midwestern US towards the east coast late Sunday. On Monday low pressure is expected to redevelop off the Delaware coast and move northeast towards Maine while strengthening. The storm will push a shield of moisture north and west of the track across New England and the Northeastern US on Monday and eventually into southern Quebec early Tuesday. Blizzard conditions are possible from New York and Boston into parts of the Maritimes.

At this time, we will remain on the northwest edge of the storm, with 10 to 15cm of snow likely for Montreal, less northwest of the city and more south towards the US border. In the border locations as well as the Eastern Townships, between 15 and 30cm of snow is possible. Warnings may be needed for a portion of our regions. Accompanying the snow will be gusty northeast winds in the St. Lawrence Valley, between 30-50km/h, producing blowing snow at times. More snow is expected on Wednesday, especially from Quebec City towards the Gaspe region. The good news is that temperatures will warm during the snow, up towards -2C (29F) on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The storm will pull into Atlantic Canada on Wednesday with snow tapering to flurries. Expect a fair day Thursday before another storm system arrive for Friday into next weekend.

Coldest weather of the winter forecast for Montreal

Expect ice fog and mist to form off the St. Lawrence River Friday though Sunday mornings, as the coldest temperatures of the winter thus far move into Montreal. Low temperatures this weekend will be near -20C for Montreal and into the middle -20s in many parts of Quebec and Ontario.

The coldest temperatures so far this winter are anticipated tonight through Sunday morning across southern Quebec, Ontario and New England. Montreal along with parts of eastern Ontario received a surprise 5 to 10cm of snow Tuesday evening in a little less than 6 hours. The snow was part of a weakening low pressure system that was expected to remain well south of the region. Instead the snow moved along the St. Lawrence Valley, with the heaviest falling in the southern suburbs of Montreal as well as off-island locations towards Ontario and New York. Other parts of Montreal including Laval, received less than 5cm. I measured a good 10cm on Ile Perrot.

After a rather mild high of -1.7C (29F) on Wednesday, temperatures have been dropping all day Thursday in Montreal. The high Thursday was -5.4C (22F) reached shortly after midnight. As I write this entry, the mercury is down to -9C (16F). In addition to the colder temperature, winds have been increasing all day and are gusting between 20-40km/h, producing windchill values in the minus teens. Those windchills will continue to drop into the minus 20's through Friday. Overnight lows tonight will be near -18C (0F) and struggle to reach -10C (14F) on Friday. Both Friday and Saturday night will likely be the coldest this winter, down to -20C (-4F) in the city, much colder in the suburbs.

The good news is that winds will ease heading into the weekend. As the arctic air pours into the region tonight, there is a good chance for flurries, with perhaps a centimetre or two locally. Expect cloud cover to persist through Friday, along with blustery, cold conditions and isolated flurries. The sun is expected to return by Saturday.

Temperatures will moderate early next week, with perhaps some flurries by Tuesday as a winter storm moves along the Atlantic coast. As this time the bulk of the snow should remain south of Montreal, but the system will need to be watched.

Extended period of clear cold weather forecast for Montreal

Between 5 and 10cm of fresh snow fell on southern Quebec Thursday, bringing our monthly total in Montreal to a somewhat respectable 48cm. With the cold weather of late, most of what has fallen this month, remains on the ground.

A weak area of low pressure accompanied by an arctic frontal boundary delivered 5 to 10cm of fluffy light snow to southern Quebec over the last 24 hours. The snow caused the usual rash of accidents on area highways. A few more flurries or snow showers are likely Friday before drier air moves into the region. Some of the flurries may be heavy at times today, especially south of Montreal. Keep this in mind if you are out on the road.

Some of the coldest air so far this winter will settle south across the Great Lakes and into southern Quebec, Ontario, New York and New England over the next 48 hours. (AccuWeather.com)

High pressure will begin to move in late today and on Saturday with partly cloudy skies expected, brisk winds and cold temperatures. The high in Montreal will be reached early today, before temperatures begin to drop off into the overnight hours. Lows tonight will be down to -10C (14F) and won't budge at all on Saturday. Skies will be partly cloudy Saturday, it will be breezy and cold with steady or slowly falling temperatures down to -18C (0F) for the low into Sunday morning. Sunday will be fair and cold with daytime highs of -10C (14F).

Briefly looking ahead to next week, it appears high pressure will remain in control of our weather deflecting what would have been a decent snowstorm to our south across Pennsylvania and the middle Atlantic. No active weather is expected before next Friday at the earliest.

Significant winter storm impacting southern Quebec

Heavy wet snow has been falling in Montreal all day, with a good 15cm on the ground and another 5 to 10cm expected by Sunday morning.

Snowfall Warning in effect for Montreal.

Over 42,000 without power in Quebec.

The biggest snowstorm of the season continues to impact southwestern Quebec and eastern Ontario Saturday afternoon. Heavy wet snow has been falling over the Montreal region for the last several hours, with visibility under 1 km at times. Between 12 and 20cm of fresh snow has already fallen, with another 5 to 10cm likely before the precipitation tapers off overnight. Low pressure over southern New England is forecast to lift northeast into New Brunswick over the next 24 hours. The heaviest of the snow should taper off shortly, but light snow will continue well into the evening hours in Montreal.

Conditions were poor across eastern Ontario as well, with heavy snow falling along the 401 corridor from Cornwall to the Quebec border. (OPP East Region)

Roads are in poor shape, with compacted wet snow and reduced visibility. The SQ is advising you to travel only if necessary today, especially on off-island highways. Numerous accidents have been reported. The weight of the snow has brought down several tree branches and power lines, with Hydro-Quebec reporting just over 42,000 Quebec homes and businesses in the dark.

Temperatures have been steady near 0C (32F) all morning, and should remain there into the evening. Winds have been fairly light under 30km/h but are expected to increase later today, up to 50km/h at times. Sunday will be cloudy with flurries and gusty northwest winds. Temperatures will begin to drop in the afternoon, with lows by Monday morning down to -6C (21F).