A significant late winter storm is poised to descend upon Quebec and parts of Atlantic Canada, with snowfall beginning on Sunday, just two days after the arrival of spring. Environment Canada has issued warnings for residents in the Greater Montreal Area, Monteregie, Drummondville, and Estrie, predicting nearly 10 centimetres of snow throughout the day.
Snowfall Predictions for Quebec
The initial snowfall is expected to commence on Sunday, with rates potentially reaching two centimetres per hour in some regions. The Greater Montreal Area, alongside southern Quebec territories, will experience the brunt of this winter weather. Residents are advised to prepare for a potentially messy commute as snow accumulates throughout the day.
Atlantic Canada Set for Heavy Snow
Meanwhile, Nova Scotia is bracing for heavier snowfall, with predictions of 10 to 15 centimetres beginning late Sunday afternoon. The snowfall will spread from the southwestern shores around Digby to the Halifax counties, with the Halifax Regional Municipality likely to see snow start by Sunday evening. The heaviest accumulation is anticipated to occur overnight into Monday morning, with the possibility of intensification.
Environment Canada has cautioned that the snow will be wet and heavy due to temperatures hovering around the freezing point. Northern regions of Nova Scotia may experience snowfall starting early Monday morning, reaching Cape Breton by mid-morning. The snow is expected to persist into Tuesday, with some areas potentially witnessing a mix of snow and ice pellets.
Newfoundland Faces Significant Snowfall
Newfoundland is not escaping the winter weather either, with yellow winter storm watches in place for the southern, central, and northeastern regions of the island. Eastern Newfoundland could receive between 30 to 50 centimetres of snow from Monday evening until Tuesday night, with wind gusts expected to reach 60 km/h, potentially escalating to 100 km/h during the night.
As the temperatures begin to rise above zero on Tuesday, the weather is expected to shift from snow to ice pellets and eventually to rain. However, this transition may lead to hazardous conditions, including reduced visibility due to blowing snow, particularly on Tuesday night.
Safety Precautions for Residents
Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution while travelling, as visibility may become severely compromised. Drivers should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, particularly in areas experiencing heavy snowfall. The combination of strong winds and significant snowfall could create treacherous roadways, making it essential for all to stay informed and adjust travel plans accordingly.
Why it Matters
This late winter storm serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather in Canada, particularly as the seasons shift. With communities still adjusting to the arrival of spring, the impending snow could disrupt daily routines, impact travel, and pose risks to safety. It underscores the importance of staying informed and prepared for sudden changes in weather, even as we look forward to the warmer days ahead.