A late blast of winter is set to sweep across portions of Quebec and Atlantic Canada, delivering a significant snowfall just two days after the arrival of spring. The first flakes are expected to make their appearance on Sunday, with Quebec bracing for nearly 10 centimetres of snow in areas such as Greater Montreal, Monteregie, Drummondville, and Estrie.
Snowfall Forecast for Quebec
According to Environment Canada, residents should prepare for snowfall rates that could reach up to two centimetres per hour at times. The anticipated accumulation of snow in the Greater Montreal Area and surrounding regions will coincide with a weather system that is predicted to intensify throughout the evening.
The heaviest snowfall is expected to occur on Sunday night into Monday morning. As temperatures hover near freezing, the snow is likely to be wet and heavy, posing additional challenges for commuters and residents alike. Northern regions of Nova Scotia may begin to see snow early Monday morning, with Cape Breton expected to be affected by mid-morning.
Significant Impact on Nova Scotia
As the system moves into Atlantic Canada, snowfall amounts in Nova Scotia are projected to reach between 10 to 15 centimetres, particularly in areas from Digby to Halifax. The weather agency warns that the bulk of the snowfall will occur late Sunday afternoon, with the Halifax Regional Municipality feeling the brunt of the storm by evening.
Environment Canada has issued yellow winter storm watches for parts of Newfoundland, especially in the southern, central, and northeastern regions. Meanwhile, eastern Newfoundland could receive between 30 to 50 centimetres of snow from Monday evening until Tuesday night, with wind gusts potentially reaching up to 100 km/h.
Mixed Precipitation Ahead
In addition to significant snow accumulations, there is a possibility of mixed precipitation across the Atlantic coast. On Monday evening, some areas may experience a mix of snow, ice pellets, and freezing rain, although the exact locations remain uncertain.
As the temperatures rise on Tuesday, a transition from snow to ice pellets and eventually to rain is expected. However, this change could lead to further complications, including reduced visibility due to blowing snow as temperatures drop again on Tuesday night.
Safety Precautions Advised
As this winter storm unfolds, residents are urged to exercise caution, particularly when travelling. Visibility could drop to nearly zero at times, making road conditions hazardous. The combination of heavy, wet snow and strong winds will create treacherous situations, especially for those on the road.
Why it Matters
This unexpected winter weather serves as a stark reminder of the capricious nature of Canadian seasons. As communities emerge from winter into spring, this late snowstorm may disrupt daily life, impede travel, and raise concerns about safety. It highlights the importance of staying informed and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially in a region known for its unpredictable climate.
