As the first signs of spring begin to emerge, a late winter storm is poised to sweep across Quebec and parts of Atlantic Canada, bringing significant snowfall just two days after the vernal equinox. Starting Sunday, snowflakes will begin to fall in various regions, with the potential for nearly 10 centimetres of accumulation in the Greater Montreal Area, Monteregie, Drummondville, and Estrie.
Snow Forecast for Quebec
According to Environment Canada, residents should prepare for snowfall rates that could reach up to two centimetres per hour. The heaviest accumulation is expected in the Greater Montreal Area and surrounding regions, where a total of 10 to 15 centimetres is anticipated by the end of Sunday. This wintry weather is expected to persist, with conditions worsening into Monday morning.
Atlantic Canada Braces for Heavy Snow
In Nova Scotia, a substantial snowfall is forecast to begin late Sunday afternoon, with areas from Digby to Halifax expected to receive between 10 and 15 centimetres of snow. The Halifax Regional Municipality will likely see the storm’s impact by Sunday evening, with conditions expected to deteriorate further into Monday morning. Environment Canada has indicated that the snow will be wet and heavy due to temperatures hovering around the freezing mark.
Northern regions of Nova Scotia may begin to experience snowfall as early as Monday morning, with Cape Breton expected to be affected by mid-morning. The snow is projected to continue through Tuesday morning, and while some areas may witness a mix of snow and ice pellets Monday evening, the exact locations remain uncertain.
Newfoundland Faces Severe Weather Alerts
Newfoundland is also bracing for significant snowfall, with yellow winter storm watches issued for the island’s southern, central, and northeastern areas. Some regions could see snow accumulations ranging from 20 to 30 centimetres, with gusty northerly winds reaching speeds of 80 to 100 km/h by Monday night, extending into Tuesday.
In eastern Newfoundland, predictions suggest that snowfall could accumulate between 30 and 50 centimetres from Monday evening until Tuesday night. Wind gusts during this period may also reach upwards of 60 km/h, increasing to 80-100 km/h overnight. Environment Canada warns that as temperatures rise above zero, the snow is likely to transition into a mix of ice pellets and freezing rain on Tuesday, creating hazardous conditions.
Travel and Safety Advisory
Given the anticipated weather conditions, motorists are advised to exercise caution as visibility may drop to near-zero at times. Blowing snow could further exacerbate travel difficulties, particularly on Tuesday night when a second wave of poor visibility is possible. Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared as the storm unfolds.
Why it Matters
This late winter storm is a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather patterns as seasons change. The impact of heavy snowfall and strong winds poses risks not only to travel and transport but also to community safety and infrastructure. With the potential for ice and freezing rain, residents across Quebec and Atlantic Canada must remain vigilant, adapting their plans as necessary to ensure safety in the face of these challenging conditions.
