Quebec’s Abitibi-Témiscamingue region recently faced a significant winter storm, delivering heavy snowfall and freezing rain. The storm, which began on a Monday, was projected to bring up to 50 centimeters of snow in certain areas, creating disruption across the region.
Impact on Municipal Services
In Rouyn-Noranda, located 500 kilometers northwest of Montreal, municipal offices were closed. Garbage collection services were suspended, and public transportation came to a halt due to the severe weather conditions. Val d’Or, approximately 100 kilometers east, also shut down several municipal facilities while schools and local businesses closed their doors for the day.
Healthcare Services Affected
The regional health authority announced that some home visits would be postponed. Additionally, patients unable to attend their medical appointments would not be marked as no-shows.
Snow Accumulation and Weather Conditions
- Lebel-sur-Quévillon reported nearly 45 centimeters of snow by midday.
- Mayor Guy Lafrenière noted that his town is accustomed to winter weather, stating they already had significant snow accumulation prior to this event.
- Temperature fluctuations were raising concerns for residents and snow removal crews alike.
The accumulation on sidewalks was so significant that many were forced to walk on the streets in Val-d’Or. Environment Canada’s meteorologist, Julien Pellerin, indicated some areas received about 30 centimeters of snow by noon. The federal agency issued an orange winter storm warning for the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region, cautioning residents about reduced visibility conditions.
Future Weather Forecast
While the snow transitioned to freezing rain in some regions, it was expected to revert to snow later in the day. Pellerin remarked that this storm was particularly substantial, but March storms are commonplace in Quebec.
The forecast indicates that temperatures in the affected areas are expected to remain at or below zero until early April. This may lessen the risk of flooding but poses challenges for those looking forward to an early spring.
