Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a special weather statement alerting residents of Quebec to an impending freezing rain threat. The forecast indicates that freezing rain may begin early Wednesday and persist into Thursday. Accumulation of ice is expected to reach between 20 to 30 millimeters.
Details of the Freezing Rain Threat
The ECCC warns that this weather event could last up to 24 hours, potentially paralyzing various services across the affected regions. The key areas of concern include:
- Greater Montreal
- Montérégie
- Laurentians
- Lanaudière
- Outaouais
- Mauricie
- Centre-du-Québec
- Quebec City
The agency has indicated that the freezing rain may lead to transportation delays and cancellations. Additionally, the accumulation of ice can result in downed trees, power lines, and hazardous walking conditions due to slippery sidewalks.
Weather Conditions Ahead
According to ECCC meteorologist Giselle Dookhie, uncertainty remains about the weather system’s specifics, as it is still over a day away from impacting Quebec. However, the potential for an “extended period of freezing rain” raises significant concerns.
Recent Weather History
The memory of the last major ice storm in Quebec is still fresh, which occurred in April 2023. During this storm, over one million Hydro-Québec customers experienced power outages.
While southern regions of Quebec are expected to experience the most severe impacts, the storm will affect all of Quebec and parts of Atlantic Canada. In contrast, areas like Lac-Saint-Jean to the north will see more significant snowfall, with anticipated totals of up to 40 centimeters.
The Eastern Townships are also at risk for localized flooding, given that the snowpack remains high from recent storms. Hydro-Québec has yet to provide a detailed comment, indicating that they are waiting for a more precise forecast.
