Quebec is bracing for a series of weather systems this week, particularly in the Montreal area. One of these systems could deliver significant snowfall.
Weather Forecast for Montreal
A weather system is forecasted to pass through the Great Lakes and enter southern Quebec on Wednesday. This system will raise temperatures near freezing. Weather models predict snowfall accumulations ranging from 10 to 15 cm in and around Montreal.
Sequential Weather Patterns
- First System: The initial system will enter from Abitibi-Témiscamingue. However, it is expected to bring limited moisture, resulting in light precipitation across the province.
- Second System: The more impactful system is approaching from western Canada, moving slightly south of the Great Lakes. This Alberta Clipper is anticipated to bring heavier snowfall, particularly affecting southern Quebec.
This system will first impact the southern Prairies and northern Midwest United States, potentially delivering up to 30 cm of snow in places like Wisconsin and northern Chicago.
Uncertain Trajectory
The future path of this weather system remains uncertain. While it will certainly affect southern Quebec, the extent of its impact is still in question. If it shifts northward, Montreal could see increased snowfall, whereas a more southern trajectory would lessen accumulations in the province.
Snow Accumulation Predictions
Current forecasts suggest:
- 10 to 15 cm of snow for Montreal, Outaouais, and Montérégie.
- Up to 10 cm for Estrie, Laurentides, Mauricie, Beauce, and Capitale-Nationale.
If the system veers northward, snowfall totals for Montreal could exceed 25 cm in some areas. Conversely, a southern shift would result in lower accumulations.
Temperature Changes Ahead
This weather system is strong enough to temporarily displace the Arctic air mass, causing temperatures to rise to near freezing—an anomaly that Quebec has not experienced recently. However, temperatures are expected to drop again significantly below seasonal norms starting Thursday.
