MétéoMédia Forecasts: Long Journey to Summer Conditions Ahead
As winter lingers on, MétéoMédia predicts a challenging transition into spring for many regions in Canada. According to their latest forecast, both Quebec and Ontario will experience a prolonged winter atmosphere, with chances for snow continuing into March and April.
Key Weather Patterns and Predictions
Meteorologist André Monette highlights the complexities of the upcoming weather. He explained that the transition to summer conditions will be “long” and “winding.” The anticipated dissipation of La Niña and the return of El Niño later in the summer contribute to this forecast.
- Expected ongoing snow opportunities in March and April
- Unusual precipitation levels over the Great Lakes basin
- Warm and cold air interactions could lead to more storms
The presence of a cold anomaly in the Canadian Prairies, paired with warmer conditions in the southern US, will likely enhance weather activity in Ontario and Quebec. Monette stated that this “confrontation between hot and cold” could result in above-normal precipitation for these regions.
Rainfall and Flooding Risks in Quebec
In Quebec, precipitation levels are anticipated to be above seasonal averages, except in the northern and eastern parts of the province, which will remain near normal. Monette warned that rapid snowmelt could pose flood risks. Currently, the flood risk is considered moderate, but it is being closely monitored.
Temperature Expectations
In the coming weeks, temperatures in Quebec are projected to hover around seasonal norms, with notable variations:
- Western Quebec: Below normal temperatures
- Northern Quebec: Above normal temperatures
- Ontario: Generally below normal, except near the southeast
In the Windsor-Quebec corridor, brief warm spells might occur, providing temporary relief, although these warm periods will be short-lived.
Weather Outlook for the Atlantic Provinces
For Canada’s Atlantic provinces, the forecast indicates a minimal number of coastal storms this spring. Monette assures that the Maritimes will be less affected by cold air descending during this time. The temperatures here are expected to remain near seasonal averages, with precipitation levels aligning with seasonal expectations.
Furthermore, a cooler-than-normal spring is forecasted for the western provinces, with British Columbia expected to experience near-normal temperatures.
