More rain expected across southern Quebec

The City of Montreal is using snow clearing equipment to help push flood water back into Rivieres-des-Prairies. (West Island Flood Volunteers Photo courtesy of Doug Liberman).

The flood watch remains in effect for metro Montreal and the Ottawa Valley.

West Island Flood Volunteers need you - click here.

As volunteers and emergency personnel continue the effort of filling sandbags, building dikes and saving homes, more rain is falling across the swollen Ottawa River. Since late last evening, another 8mm of rain has fallen on Île Perrot, with more northwest of Montreal. The runoff, combined with melting snow and ice, continues to raise water levels along the Ottawa River and into Lake of Two Mountains. Water levels in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, were at 24.28 metres this morning, expected to rise to 24.36 metres by Thursday. The water spilling through the Carillon Hydro Station on the Ontario border is at 7700m3/second and forecast to rise to 8050m3/second by Thursday. For comparison, the mean flow is 2000m3/second. The current forecast has the water cresting by Thursday, but that is very dependent on the upcoming rain expected.

Flooding is also occurring in other parts of the province including across the Beauce region, and Gatineau, shown above. (Canadian Press Photo)

Volunteers continue to do amazing work in Laval, Île Bizard, Pierrefonds and Île Perrot among other regions. Pierrefonds Comprehensive High School has become sandbag central, with tons and tons of sand being scooped into bags and loaded onto trucks. The West Island Flood Volunteers continue to monitor the event, offering help and hope to homeowners. Volunteers are still needed. Visit their Facebook page for complete information or contact your municipality. The Canadian Armed Forces are also on the ground in Quebec, focusing their efforts at this time in Laval, Riguad and Gatineau.

Across the province, major flooding continues to occur south of Quebec City in the Beauce region as well as along the Ottawa River in Riguad and Pointe-Frotune. According to Urgence Quebec, over 1400 people have been evacuated province-wide, with 2900 homes flooded so far. Many more homes are isolated as roads become impassable by flooding.

The rain with our current system is almost over. Just some drizzle remains for Montreal on Wednesday. The weather will be breezy and rather chilly. High pressure builds into southern Quebec for Thursday, with a sunny day expected and normal temperatures around 14C (56F). Unfortunately, the dry weather will not last. Low pressure and a cold front will move across Ontario and Quebec Friday, with another 15 to 20mm of rain possible. The rain will be accompanied by gusty winds and dropping temperatures. Some parts of Quebec may even see snow late Friday. The weekend at this time looks cloudy and cool with showers.

Flooding will continue to be a threat across the entire region. Residents in the flood zone will need to remain vigilant well into next week.

West Island Flood Volunteers need your help

Flood water from Vaudreuil Bay surrounds a cottage on 7th avenue in Terrasse-Vaudreuil. The cottage, now owned by the municipality, was heavily damaged in 2017. (Valley Weather Photo)

West Island Flood Volunteers need your help now. Please visit their Facebook Page HERE.

The flood watch remains in effect for metro Montreal. For the latest information, please visit The Suburban Weather Page. CLICK HERE.

Flooding continues this morning along the Ottawa River, into Lake of Two Mountains and the rivers surrounding Montreal and Laval. The current level at the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue locks is 24.24 metres, forecast to rise to 24.29 metres by Wednesday afternoon. Afterwards a steady decline is expected, however that may change as rain is in the forecast.

Major flooding has also been occurring in Rigaud, where nearly 200 homes have now been evacuated. 

After two days of perfect weather, rain is forecast across southern Quebec overnight Tuesday. A rather disorganized weather system is expected to bring showers and cooler temperatures through Wednesday, before the sun returns on Thursday. At this time, 10 to 15mm is possible, with more northwest of Montreal. Another system late Friday and Saturday could produce and additional 10 to 15mm of rain. Easter Monday was the warmest day of the year so far in Montreal, reaching 19C (66F).

WEST ISLAND FLOOD VOLUNTEERS

The sunshine was welcome by the hundreds of volunteers with the West Island Flood Volunteers who braved rising flood waters and damp, dreary weather most of this past weekend. The grassroots group, formed during the 2017 flood, has literally been saving home after home, one block at a time across the West Island, especially in hard-hit Pierrefonds and Île Bizard. The group, 2500 strong, responds to every single request for help. More volunteers are needed.

The Administrator of the group, Doug Liberman, raised the alarm early Friday, and the group sprung into action, filling and delivering thousands of sandbags and building dikes throughout the holiday weekend. Many others have been working behind the scenes, coordinating and dispatching teams and supplies, or reaching out to local restaurants and merchants for food and water. In many instances they have worked throughout the night.

When I asked Doug this morning if The Suburban could use one of his photos, his response was quick, amazing considering how busy the group has been.

"Yes! We need volunteers and anyone in need can post on our group and we will come. Help us get the word out. Thank you"

If you can help, reach out to the West Island Flood Volunteers via their Facebook page. The water continues to rise and the need is still great.

Flood risk on the rise across southern Quebec

Terrasse-Vaudreuil firefighters place sandbags along the swollen Ottawa River in May 2017. (ValleyWeather Photo)

Latest updates are available HERE.

A series of low pressure systems will deliver heavy rainfall across eastern Ontario and southern Quebec through Saturday. The heaviest rain is expected late Friday into Saturday morning, with showery weather persisting into next week. The rain, combined with melting snow and river ice, is expected to provide sharp rises to all area waterways. The focus in our region is on the Ottawa River and its tributaries, with flooding expected from Pointe-Fortune along the Ontario border into metro Montreal.

Several communities have been put on alert, including Rigaud, where devastating flooding occurred in 2017. Emergency measures have been put in place, with some evacuations expected. There is a real fear that water levels could be higher than the record flooding of 2017. To date, Montreal has already received 40mm of precipitation this month, while further up the Ottawa Valley, 54mm has fallen in Ottawa. Another 25 to 50mm or more of rainfall is anticipated through the upcoming weekend.

In metro Montreal, the Borough of Pierrefonds-Roxboro has already taken steps to protect residents from flooding along Riviere-des-Prairies. The borough is in alert mode as we head into the upcoming weekend. Pumps have been set up in advance of the predicted rising water. The residents of Terrasse-Vaudreuil, Ile Perrot and Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue have also been put on alert for potential flooding along the Ottawa River and Lake of Two Mountains. The gauge Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue locks is at 23.36 metres, just above flood stage of 23.30. South of Montreal, Lake Champlain is over 99 feet, with flood stage at 100 feet. Minor flooding is anticipated this weekend near Rouses Point, New York, with that water entering the Richelieu River Valley in Quebec.

Showery, mild weather is expected in Montreal Thursday, with breezy conditions and a warm high of 18C (65F). Strengthening low pressure will move along a frontal boundary during the day Friday, providing the region with heavy rainfall. The heavy rain will persist into Saturday. Temperatures will become cooler Friday afternoon as winds increase out of the north.

A special weather statement is in effect for Montreal, with potential warnings needed by Friday. Heavy rainfall warnings are in effect for the Ottawa Valley and eastern Ontario. A flood watch in in effect across most of northern New York and Vermont. Flooding has already occurred south of Quebec City in the Beauce region, and across portions of Vermont.

Freezing rain cuts power to over 300,000 Quebec homes

Widespread freezing rain across southern Quebec, produced massive power outages on Monday. Over 300,000 Hydro-Quebec customers were left in the dark and cold. The situation is only slightly better today. Utility crews have been brought in from other parts of the province. Above, crews work to restore power in Laval, north of Montreal. (CTV)

The winter that just won't end dealt southern Quebec another jolt yesterday, with a round of snow, strong winds and heavy freezing rain. More wintry precipitation is forecast today.

The late season ice storm cut power to over 300,000 southern Quebec homes from Laval north into the lower Laurentians and east towards Lanuadiere. Over 250,000 homes and businesses remain in the dark Tuesday morning as Hydro-Quebec scrambles to bring in crews from other parts of the province. The utility is working around the clock, but no estimate has been given for when power might be restored. The task is massive, with over 675 separate outages needing attention. Most schools in Laval and across the Laurentians have been closed today, with two warming shelters opened in Laval.

Tree damage along the north shore of Montreal. (Hydro-Quebec Photo)

On Monday, low pressure moved just south of Montreal producing over 15mm of freezing rain. Accompanying the frozen precipitation were winds in excess of 60km/h. Temperatures were just a touch colder north of the Island of Montreal, allowing the ice to accumulate rapidly on trees and power lines. Numerous branches made contact with hydro lines creating the massive power outage. Most regions south of Montreal, including at my home on L'Ile Perrot and across the south shore, were spared the freezing rain, with mostly liquid precipitation falling.

Hydro-Quebec is battling more wintry weather Tuesday as a second storm system slides south of the province. Additional weather warnings have been issued for the region for more freezing rain and up to 15cm of snow. The snow will spread into the region during the late morning and early afternoon.

Well below normal temperatures will prevail today, with a forecast high of only 1C (34F) in Montreal. The normal high should be 10C (50F) and the low 0C (32F).

Cool and stormy week ahead

Winter refuses to give up in Montreal, as another late season storm will pass close to the city on Monday, producing a messy mix of rain, freezing rain and snow. (AccuWeather.com)

Freezing Rain Warning in effect for metro Montreal.
Snowfall Warning posted for Quebec City.

It has been extremely difficult for any prolonged warm weather to become established across eastern Canada this spring. Each time it appears we may be in for a period of above normal temperatures, old man winter returns. The winter that started in late October, does not want to relinquish its hold on Montreal. Unfortunately this week looks no different, as our warm, spring-like Sunday will be replaced by another late season winter storm.

Strengthening low pressure will move along a frontal boundary just to the south of Montreal overnight into Monday. North and east of the front, cold northeast winds will prevail, along with wintry precipitation. Rain should start in Montreal late this evening and change to freezing rain overnight. The city will remain on the thin dividing line between rain and freezing rain. A freezing rain warning has been issued for the metro region, but I think most of the icing issues should be north of Montreal. That being said, we may have a few slick spots for the morning commute, especially in Laval, the Laurentians, and Ottawa Valley.

As you move northeast along the St. Lawrence River, the precipitation will change to snow, and become heavy at times. Quebec City along with regions of eastern Quebec, northern Maine and western New Brunswick, can expect 15-25cm of wet snow. Accompanying the precipitation across Quebec will be gusty winds of 50 to 70km/h. Any travel plans north and east of Montreal on Monday, should be reconsidered.

South of Montreal and across most of southern Ontario, the precipitation should remain in the form of rain. After a warm high of 11C (52F) in Montreal Sunday, temperatures will fall quickly down to the freezing point tonight, and only rise to 2C (35F) Monday.

Colder than normal April anticipated across southern Quebec

Strong winds swept across Quebec and Atlantic Canada on Wednesday and Thursday, gusting up to 80km/h in the Montreal region. The wind managed to flip a small aircraft on the tarmac in Saint-Lazare Thursday afternoon. No injuries were reported. (TVA News Photo)

The most recent computer guidance and forecast models are indicating a good chance of below normal temperatures for the duration of April. While that may seem like bad news at the onset, keep in mind that the average daytime high for April in Montreal, rises from 7C (45F) on the 1st of the month to 16C (61F) by the end. As a result, it may be colder than normal, but still well above freezing.

Pick up your garbage people! It amazes me how many people use the snow as their personal garbage can. The end result is a disgusting mess every spring. Not only is this an eyesore, but the tons of plastic and paper leaching into the snowmelt and running down the sewers creates an environmental danger. This embarrassing mess is located at the Mega Centre Côte-Vertu in Saint-Laurent. (ValleyWeather Photo)

That being said, there is always the chance for a surprise snowstorm or two, especially while temperatures are below normal. A look back at recent climatic data for Montreal shows some pretty impressive April snowfalls. On April 8/9, 2000, 38cm fell, while on April 27, 2010, 29.8cm was measured. During April 2007, an incredible 61.3cm fell for the month, for comparison, the normal is 12.9cm. One of the latest snowstorms on record in Montreal occurred on May 10, 1963, when 25.4cm fell over 36 hours. The message here, don't rush to remove your winter tires just yet, April is definitely a month of slow transition.

The first week of April has been true to form with daytime highs reaching nearly 10C on Tuesday and Wednesday, but struggling to reach 2C on Monday and Thursday. In addition to the mercury mood swings, the month has already produced some snow and winds up to 80km/h. Those winds even flipped a small aircraft parked on the tarmac in Saint-Lazare on Thursday. No injuries were reported. The 0.2cm of snow measured on Wednesday evening marks the 7th consecutive month with snowfall in Montreal.

Looking ahead we can expect more unsettled, moody weather. Friday will feature a sunny, cold start, followed by a mix of rain and wet snow across the entire region by evening. Warmer air will make an appearance for the weekend, under mostly sunny skies. The high temperature should reach at least 10C (50F) both days in Montreal. Looking briefly ahead to next week, we have a chance of more rain and snow Monday, along with cooler temperatures. That cooler weather may help to generate a larger storm by the end of next week, with plenty of details to work out at this time.

Montreal sandwiched between weather systems

A very impressive coastal storm explodes on satellite east of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina late Tuesday. The storm will pass well east of Montreal today, impacting Atlantic Canada, Labrador and the Gaspe region of Quebec through Thursday. (NOAA)

A strong late season Nor'Easter is barreling up the coast towards Atlantic Canada today. The powerful ocean storm is producing hurricane force winds in the open waters of the Atlantic along with towering waves. Along the coast, high winds and rain are falling, with snow inland. The heaviest accumulations, as much as 30cm, are falling over northern Maine, eastern New Brunswick and the Gaspe region of Quebec. As the storm moves northeast, full blizzard conditions are expected across coastal Labrador and far western Newfoundland.

As the pressure gradient builds between the departing coastal storm and a cold front to our west, winds will increase up to 70km/h today over southern Quebec and Ontario. (AccuWeather.com)

We remain largely untouched by the storm here in Montreal, with the exception of strong winds developing as the pressure gradient tightens between the strengthening storm and a cold front to our west. Winds in Ontario are already approaching 80km/h in some locations, with a special weather statement now in effect. South of the border, a wind advisory has been posted for northern New York and the American side of the St. Lawrence Valley. The strong winds will spread into southern Quebec early this afternoon, with gusts expected up to 70km/h (43mph). The wind will remain gusty overnight and Thursday, up to 50km/h (31mph). The temperature will warm in advance of the front, up to 8C (48F) in Montreal, before falling quickly late in the day. The overnight low tonight will be a cold -5C (23F).

Accompanying the cold front this afternoon will be some isolated showers, with perhaps even a rumble or two of thunder along the US border. There is also the chance of scattered flurries tonight, but no accumulation is expected in Montreal. Just the sight of snow in April can be a little unsettling for most.

The good news is that warmer air will return this weekend, with temperatures close to 10C (50F) expected Saturday and Sunday.

Spring off to a slow start in Montreal

The snow is slowly melting in Montreal and across southern Quebec. Despite objections to the cold start to spring, this weather pattern has actually reduced the flood threat for the moment.

Colder than normal weather continues to dominate the landscape across southern Quebec and parts of Ontario, despite some warmth and sunshine this past week. The melting process has been very slow at best, which in the long run, will help with flooding concerns. For most people however, the continued cool weather and lack of sunshine has resulted in a rather depressing start to spring.

There has been plenty of warm air across North America, just not in Quebec or eastern Ontario. In Montreal, our average temperature for the month of March currently sits at -3.7C (25F), almost 2 degrees below the normal of -2C (29F). Our warmest temperature this month was only 9.9C (49F). Cold temperatures have been common during the overnight period, with an average low of -7.8C (18F), and an extreme low of -18.9C (-2F). It has been a windy, damp month with almost 30.4mm of rainfall. Snowfall has thankfully been below normal, with only 19.6cm falling at Trudeau Airport, 16cm of that on March 10th alone.

Weekend Storm

Temperatures will start to slowly warm up during the first week of April, but not before we get another messy storm this weekend. A cold front will sink south across southern Quebec late Thursday and then stall over northern New England. Several waves of low pressure will move along the front Saturday and Sunday, with precipitation developing over Ontario and moving into Quebec. Most of the precipitation will be in the form of rain, but there is a good chance for wet snow across the higher elevation of eastern Ontario and especially north of Montreal. On Sunday, even Montreal may see a a few hours of wet snow. Rainfall amounts will be in the 15 to 25mm range, along with a couple of centimetres of snow. It is possible that some locations north of the city, may see in excess of 10cm of wet snow.

The dividing line between rain and snow will be very close to Montreal late Saturday, depending on where the aforementioned front settles. This forecast is subject to change depending on the final track of the storm. 

Friday will be quite mild in Montreal, around 8C (47F). The weather will be much colder this weekend, with thick clouds and rain or snow keeping temperatures down around 2C (36F). Skies should clear early Monday, with an extended period of sunshine forecast next week, and high temperatures warming to near 10C (50F) to start April.

Spring snowstorm to impact southern Quebec

A late winter storm will produce heavy wet snow starting Friday afternoon over much of northern New England and southern Quebec. Some locations may see in excess of 30cm. Montreal is looking at a rain/snow mix, with 5cm to as much as 15cm locally. (AccuWeather.com)

Spring arrived at 5:58 pm on Wednesday afternoon, accompanied by bright sunshine and mild temperatures in the 7C to 10C (45 to 50F) range. It was a perfect day, but it is also March in Montreal. The month is full of surprises, and one will be delivered over the next 48 hours.

Coastal Storm
A frontal system advancing over the region Thursday, will produce clouds and scattered rain showers along with mild temperatures. Highs will be around 5C (41F) in Montreal. Low pressure currently developing over the Carolina's, is forecast to strengthen into a potent coastal storm, while moving towards New York City on Friday. This storm will move into Maine and Atlantic Canada on Saturday.

A wide swath of precipitation is expected across New England, southern Quebec and extreme eastern Ontario. Rain will develop late tonight or early Friday, and gradually change to wet snow from west to east on Friday afternoon. The snow may become heavy at times, especially across higher elevations. Snowfall accumulations will be highly dependent on when your community transitions from rain to snow, as well as elevation. At this time, 5 to 10cm is likely from Ottawa towards Montreal, with up to 30cm across the Townships and Quebec City region. The potential does exist for more snow in Montreal, depending on how quickly the region cools down on Friday. A winter storm watch has been posted for the US side of the St. Lawrence Valley, and warnings may be extended northward.

Winds will become quite strong as well late Friday, shifting from northeast to north and gusting over 50km/h. Some blowing snow is possible, especially off island towards the east and northeast. Travel will become difficult late Friday afternoon through Saturday morning. The high on Friday in Montreal will be around 4C (39F) very early in the day, dropping below freezing by afternoon.

Conditions will improve on Saturday, with clearing skies and mild highs near 3C (38F). Sunday will be fair and mild as well, before a strong cold front arrives late in the day. That front will produce flurries, with much colder weather to start next week. Remember, it is still March in Montreal!

Significant melting expected in Montreal

Warm weather to end the week will produce rapid melting of the snowpack in Montreal.

A powerful storm is slicing through the central portion of the US today on its way into Ontario after pounding the Rockies and plains with an intense blizzard. This storm was a beast, one of the strongest in years and certainly the most powerful this season. Along with heavy snow, strong thunderstorms and tornadoes, fierce winds occurred, in some cases gusting over 175km/h. Denver reported widespread blizzard conditions, with winds in excess of 125km/h. Thousands of flights were cancelled across the US, numerous highways closed and power out to over 200,000 residents across the region.

A fierce blizzard hit Denver, parts of the Rockies and the southern plains on Wednesday, quickly closing highways and stranding motorists. That same storm will bring warm, showery weather to Montreal and southern Quebec. (AccuWeather.com)

So what does this storm have to do with our weather here in Montreal? The broad circulation of the storm will push warm air across southern Ontario and Quebec over the next 48 hours. Temperatures will surge up to the warmest readings of the year so far, close to 10C (50F) on Friday. Accompanying the warm air will be gusty winds and some showers and perhaps even a thunderstorm in places. The warmth will begin to melt some of the deep snow and ice we have around the city. That, combined with any precipitation, will help to increase water levels on area rivers and lakes. This will likely result in the ice breaking up in many spots. It is time to stay off the ice and away from swift flowing water.

Some areas may also see flooding, caused specifically by snowmelt. While no weather warnings or advisories are in place at this time in southern Quebec, a flood watch has been posted for northern New York and Vermont. There is a concern for ice jam flooding along some smaller rivers and streams. The same conditions prompting that watch stateside, will exist here across the border in southern Quebec.

Cooler air will arrive this weekend behind a cold front, with a few flurries expected Saturday and daytime highs near 2C (36F). St. Patrick's Day Sunday will be sunny, but breezy and cooler, with a high of -3C (27F) for the parade in Montreal.

Mild weather finally on the way for Montreal

The weather this week has felt more like mid-January than March, with well below normal temperatures, strong winds, and occasional snow squalls. While only 1cm of snow has been reported at Trudeau Airport so far this month, several centimetres quickly fell last evening in Vaudreuil-Dorion. I took the photo above at 10pm Tuesday evening, adjacent to Highway 40 in Vaudreuil.

It has been a very cold week across southern Quebec, with high temperatures running well below the normal of 0C (32F). As of 3pm Wednesday afternoon, Montreal was reporting a cold -9C (16F). The overnight low tonight could reach -18C (0F). This cold weather will persist through the end of the work week, along with a few scattered flurries from time to time.

On Tuesday, numerous snow squalls moved northeast off of Lake Ontario and down the St. Lawrence Valley. The squalls produced areas of heavy snow and blowing snow along Highway 401 between Trenton and Cornwall. Dangerous travel conditions were reported. Last evening, what was left of the squalls, produced a 15 minute heavy burst of snow across Vaudreuil-Dorion and parts of the far western island around 10pm.

We can expect milder air to arrive this weekend, as low pressure develops over the southern plains and moves towards the Great Lakes. The system is forecast to pass west of Montreal on Sunday, with mixed precipitation expected across the region. A decent amount of moisture will accompany the storm, but the exact type and location of the heaviest precipitation is yet to be determined. I am thinking 5 to 10cm of snow for Montreal, before precipitation changes to rain. But those numbers may be adjusted up or down depending on the exact storm track. The good news is that the mild air that arrives with this storm, will stick around into next week. High temperatures will rise above freezing Sunday, with daytime highs remaining above freezing all next week.

Welcome to meteorological spring

March can be a very warm month, or a cruel reminder that it is still winter for a few more weeks. History has shown us here in Montreal, that our biggest storms of the year can occur, including the Storm of the Century, shown above, from March 3-5, 1971. You can read more about the 71 storm HERE.  (Meteo Media Photo)

It may not feel like spring, but the sun is getting brighter and the days are getting longer. From a weather standpoint, we are entering the spring season, although the calendar does not catch up for a few weeks. Unfortunately this year, the weather won't catch up either. We are in the middle of a cold snap that should prevail well into next week. Temperatures across southern Quebec have been well below the normal high/low for early March of -1C (30F) and -10C (14F) respectively.

March will come in lion like across parts of New England, but Montreal should remain on the northern edge of both storms this weekend. Expect only light snow, with perhaps 2 to 7cm total accumulation.

Before moving forward I will take a quick look back at the month of February, a month that was cold, but certainly not record breaking. The daily average high was -3.9C (24.9F), with an average low of -13.1C (8.4F). Those numbers are just slightly below normal, with the low being nudged down a little by our current cold spell. Montreal received 65.6cm of snow, powered by the 40cm snowstorm on the 12th. Normal February snow is 41.2cm. We managed 7 days above freezing, including a high of 6.4C on the 8th. An additional 24.4mm of rain fell in Montreal during February, that combined with the frequent freeze and thaw cycles, have left many parts of the city covered in a thick layer of ice.

As we look forward to March, we can expect a very cold start to the first month of spring. Temperatures are forecast to be well below normal through the first two weeks. After that we will see a pronounced pattern change, with above normal temperatures expected after the middle of the month.

In the short-term, two separate storm systems are expected to pass well south of Montreal, Saturday and again late Sunday. While a moderate snowfall is forecast across New England, Montreal should remain on the northern edge of both storms. Light snow will spread into southern Quebec on Saturday, accumulating 2 to 5cm along the St. Lawrence Valley. A stronger storm late Sunday will produce another 2 to 5cm as it moves along the New England coast. The morning commute Monday in Montreal may be a little tricky, but we are not expecting a big storm at this time.

A break from the stormy weather for Montreal

Several major, multi-vehicle collisions were reported across southern Quebec on Monday. The combination of snow and very strong winds, produced near-zero visibility. The accident above closed Highway 15 south of Montreal from Saint-Jacques-le-Mineur to the US Border. (Post Millennial Photo)

It was a wild 36 hours across eastern North America, as a strong storm system moved from the central US and Great Lakes, into Quebec. A messy mix of snow, freezing rain, rain and fierce winds dominated the weather. Montreal had several hours of freezing rain on Sunday, followed by heavy rain at times, with even a rumble or two of thunder on the south shore. A strong cold front late Sunday delivered violent winds, with a peak gust of 85km/h observed at Trudeau Airport and 89km/h at Saint Hubert. In Quebec, the top wind speed was 107km/h at Grand Bergeronnes. In Ontario, Port Colborne reported a gust to 128km/h, with 200km/h at Plateau, Nova Scotia on Cape Breton Island. A February wind record was established on top of Mount Washington in northern New Hampshire, with a gust of 275km/h (171 mph) on Monday afternoon.

On Monday, the strong winds persisted, combining with falling temperatures and blowing snow to produce dangerous driving conditions. Major accidents closed dozens of roads across Ontario and Quebec, including Highway 15 south of Montreal to the US border, and Highway 40 at the Ontario/Quebec border. Other accidents also occurred on Routes 340 and 201 southwest of Montreal. Miraculously only minor injuries were reported, despite the fact hundreds of vehicles were involved. Similar multi-vehicle accidents occurred across central and eastern Ontario, including a 70 vehicle pile-up on Highway 400 near Barrie.

The good news is that conditions have improved significantly across the entire region Tuesday, with clear weather expected through the end of the week for Montreal. Winds do remain gusty on Tuesday, in the 30 to 50km/h range in Montreal, but they should diminish by Wednesday. High pressure will remain in control of our weather, with sunny skies and cold temperatures expected through Thursday. The morning low on Wednesday will be near -21C (-6F) in Montreal. A warming trend is expected by Friday into the upcoming weekend, but with increasing chances for snow by late Saturday.

Strong damaging winds forecast for Ontario & Quebec

Montreal can expect strong winds to develop on Sunday, persisting into Monday. Wind speeds in the deeper purple areas, may exceed 90km/h in some locations. (AccuWeather)

Deepening low pressure over southern Michigan Sunday morning, will lift into southern Quebec through Monday afternoon. The storm is forecast to bomb out to a 970mb low while entering Quebec. Freezing rain and sleet have already spread into Quebec on Sunday morning, with precipitation expected to change to rain in metro Montreal. Mixed precipitation, including heavy snow, will continue across other regions of Quebec, including Quebec City where 30cm of snow is forecast. Precipitation will become spotty at times in Montreal through the early afternoon, before the arrival of a strong cold front this evening.

Powerful Winds up to 100km/h

The cold front will be accompanied by bursts of heavy snow, along with very strong winds. Winds are forecast to increase out of the southwest up to 50km/h today in Montreal, and up to 90km/h this evening into Monday. Wind speeds will likely exceed 100km/h along the shores of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario as well as portions of the St. Lawrence Valley. Winds of this strength are capable of producing damage to trees and power lines. Widespread weather warnings are in effect across the entire region for strong winds, blowing snow and freezing rain. Accompanying the wind will be 2 to 5cm of snow in eastern Ontario and southern Quebec. The snow, combined with rapidly dropping temperature and the gusty winds, will produce dangerous travel and low visibility through Monday morning.

The same storm bringing Montreal freezing rain and strong winds, produced multiple tornadoes across the southern US. The image above is from Columbus, Mississippi on Saturday evening. (AccuWeather Photo)

Temperatures will rise above freezing for a time today in Montreal, up to 3C (38F) early Sunday afternoon. After the passage of the cold front, the mercury will plunge down to -5C (23F) by morning, and continue to drop all day Monday, down to -10C (14F) by late in the day. Expect icy, extremely variable and difficult travel conditions across all regions of southern Quebec and eastern Ontario through Monday.

This same storm system has been responsible for major flash flooding across the southern US, along with strong thunderstorms and tornadoes. From the southern Rockies into the central Great Lakes, blizzard conditions have been reported along with multiple road closures.

New winter storm to bring snow, freezing rain and strong winds to southern Quebec

The continuous freeze and thaw cycle this winter has left many neighbourhoods across southern Quebec trapped under thick ice. Contractors, (above & below)) are putting in extra time trying to clear some of that ice from streets in Notre-Dame-de-L'Ile-Perrot. (Photos: Donna Dalton)

Southern Quebec and eastern Ontario are looking at another messy winter storm this weekend, with a mix of snow, freezing rain, rain and very strong winds. Special weather statements are currently in effect.

The calm before the next storm is expected to last through Saturday afternoon across southern Quebec. A small taste of spring is forecast for Montreal, with abundant sunshine and temperatures flirting with the freezing mark both Friday and Saturday. The good news ends rather abruptly after that. Low pressure is forecast to develop over northern Texas and deepen rapidly as it moves towards the central Great Lakes. Fuelled by tropical moisture on the east side and arctic cold on the backside of the system, the storm is forecast to become rather intense as it moves into Ontario and Quebec on Sunday afternoon.

The storm center will pass well west of Montreal, placing southern Quebec in the warm sector of the cyclone. Expect snow to develop along a warm front Saturday evening, changing quickly to freezing rain in Montreal and points south and west, and persisting into the overnight. Precipitation should change to rain on Sunday morning in Montreal. North and east of the city, as well as across far western Quebec, the dominant precipitation type will be snow, with 15 to 30cm forecast. Here in Montreal, we can expect a messy 10 to 20mm of freezing rain and rain.

As the storm moves east of Montreal, rain will change back to snow and blowing snow late Sunday evening, with 5 to 10cm possible by Monday morning. All this precipitation will be driven around by very strong winds, up to 90km/h on Sunday and Monday across eastern Ontario and southern Quebec. The temperature will rise to 0C (32F) Saturday, and 3C (38F) Sunday in Montreal. As the cold front crosses the area late Sunday, temperatures will fall rapidly in the snow and wind, down to -5C (23F) by Monday morning.

The combination of mixed precipitation and strong winds will make for difficult travel from late Saturday into Monday. In addition to falling precipitation, look for a flash freeze again in Montreal late Sunday.

Another round of snow and rain expected for Montreal

After last weeks 40cm storm, huge piles of snow tower into the sky in several neighbourhoods. This one is located in Saint-Laurent along Thimens Boulevard. (ValleyWeather)

Special Weather Statement in effect for southern Quebec and eastern Ontario for 5 to 20cm of snow mixed with freezing rain from late Wednesday into Thursday morning.

The calm and cold weather that southern Quebec has enjoyed since Saturday, will come to an end late Wednesday. Low pressure developing across the southwest US, is forecast to move across the Great Lakes and into central Quebec by Thursday. A second storm will move across the southeast US and along the east coast, eventually out to sea well south of Quebec. This track will place Montreal and southern Quebec in the warm sector, with mixed precipitation expected. Temperatures will start the day Wednesday around -10C (14F), rising throughout the day and into Thursday, to plus 4C (39F). This is not going to be a big storm, but will be problematic nonetheless due to the timing of the precipitation.

We are running out of place to put the snow this winter. Contractors attempt to widen the parking lot at an Ile Perrot business this past weekend. (ValleyWeather)

Another clear and cold night is forecast tonight, before clouds increase Wednesday, with snow developing very late in the day. Steady snow will develop from late Wednesday into early Thursday morning, with precipitation mixing with freezing rain and eventually rain from Montreal and eastern Ontario south to the US border. At this time, I am thinking 5 to 10cm of snow is likely for Montreal, with 10 to 15cm north of the city into the Laurentians. Isolated 20cm amounts are possible, where temperatures remain below freezing the longest. All precipitation will change back to flurries late Thursday before ending. Expect clearing skies and cooler temperatures for Friday, before we have a repeat performance this weekend. Another storm system will take a very similar track over the weekend with more snow and mixed precipitation expected.

Record breaking snowfall for Montreal approaching 40cm

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

Winter Storm Warning in effect through noon for Montreal.

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

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

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

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

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

Winter Storm Warning posted for Montreal and southern Quebec

A winter storm watch has been posted for southern Ontario and Quebec.

Winter Storm Warning posted for southern Quebec and eastern Ontario. The watch has been upgraded to a warning as of 3:45PM.

Here is the latest information on the upcoming winter storm. Strong low pressure developing over the southern plains is forecast to move towards the Great Lakes and then just south of Montreal on Wednesday. A second area of low pressure will move along the east coast. The combination of these two storm will produce a wide area of precipitation across our entire region. The snow is expected to spread across southern Ontario early Tuesday morning, reaching southwestern Quebec late in the day. The snow will become heavy at times overnight and through Wednesday morning in metro Montreal. Accumulations will range from 15 to 25cm across southern Ontario and new England, with 25 to 40cm in the St. Lawrence Valley from Cornwall to Quebec City.

In Montreal, we should receive close to 30cm of snow from about 4pm Tuesday through noon on Wednesday. The snow will be accompanied by strong, gusty winds which will produce widespread blowing snow. Expect very poor road conditions across the region, and consider postponing any unnecessary travel. The snow should taper off to flurries by Wednesday afternoon.

Stormy week ahead for winter weary Montreal

A winter storm will produce heavy snow in Montreal from Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday morning. Current indications are that 25 to 40cm of snow may fall in the St. Lawrence Valley. Strong winds will accompany the snow, greatly reducing visibility. Travel will become extremely challenging across the entire region. Adjust your plans if possible. (AccuWeather Photo)

Winter Storm Watch for Eastern Ontario.
Special Weather Statement for Southern Quebec.

A major winter storm is poised to impact southern Ontario and Quebec from Tuesday through Thursday this week. High pressure will remain in control of the weather in Montreal through early Tuesday, with clear and cold conditions. Clouds will increase on Tuesday morning as low pressure moves from the Ohio Valley into New York State. A second area of low pressure is expected to develop over Delaware and move towards southern New England on Wednesday.

The combination of these two storms will produce a wide area of heavy snow and sleet from southern Ontario across Quebec and New England. Current thinking is that the heaviest snow will fall in the St. Lawrence Valley from Kingston to Quebec City. In this corridor, amounts could easily exceed 30cm through Wednesday. Accompanying the snow will be gusty northeast winds in excess of 50km/h, producing areas of blowing and drifting snow. In Montreal, visibility will be severely reduced in falling and blowing snow through midday Wednesday. Travel across eastern Ontario and southwest Quebec will become extremely difficult Tuesday night.

A winter storm warning will likely be issued for Montreal early Monday morning. Look for additional updates on the storm beginning Monday morning.

Freeze & thaw winter weather wearing down Montreal

Highway 20, west of Montreal, was closed overnight after a fatal, multi-vehicle accident around 11:45pm. The collision, near the Ontario border, involved at least a dozen cars and 7 trucks. (Radio Canada Photo)

Freezing Drizzle Advisory posted for Montreal.

Accidents, school closures, huge potholes, damaged roofs and trips to the emergency room with broken bones have become the norm in Montreal this winter. The non-stop freeze and thaw cycle is taking a toll on the city and southwest portion of the province. Since the weekend, Montreal has recorded nearly 10cm of snow and an additional 10mm of rain or freezing rain.

Thick ice is literally everywhere in Montreal. This month alone, the highest temperature at Trudeau Airport was 6.4C (44F), while the coldest was -18C (0F). Keep in mind, it is only February 7th! Over the next 36 hours, Montreal will go from the current temperature of -6C (21F), up to 7C (45F) by tomorrow morning, and back down to -7C (19F) by Friday afternoon. Freezing drizzle today will transition into a steadier freezing rain/rain mixture this evening, before changing to plain rain overnight. On Friday, a strong cold front will sweep across the St. Lawrence Valley, with rain changing to light snow by the afternoon. As the temperatures drop, the city will freeze over once again. Winds will become very strong as well on Friday, gusting between 50 and 80km/h.

Major Accidents
The freezing rain late Wednesday afternoon started off island to the south and west of the city around the evening commute, and spread into Montreal by 7pm. The hardest hit area was from Ile Perrot into eastern Ontario and south into New York and northern Vermont. Travel quickly became dangerous, with several major multi-vehicle accidents reported by police. One occurred on Highway 30 near Beauharnois, closing the road for several hours. A more serious accident occurred at 11:45pm in the eastbound lanes of Highway 20 at Riviere-Beaudette near the Ontario border. In this case, one fatality and two serious injuries were reported in the collision, which involved at least a dozen cars  and 7 transport trucks. The highway was closed until 4:30am Thursday, forcing hundreds of motorists to spend the night in their vehicles. Traffic backed up into Ontario, with the Ontario Provincial Police helping their Quebec colleagues.

Briefly looking ahead, the pattern that has seen very cold air in western Canada, and highly variable weather here in the east, is expected to persist. This weekend will be sunny and cold in Montreal, however another winter storm is forecast early next week. Depending on the exact path of the system, we may be looking at another messy mix of rain and snow.