Montreal Faces Significant Snowfall and Travel Disruptions
Environment Canada has issued a winter weather travel advisory for the Montreal region, warning residents of potentially hazardous driving conditions as a significant snowfall event approaches the city. The federal meteorological agency's yellow advisory indicates that rapidly accumulating snow will create slippery road surfaces and reduced visibility throughout Tuesday afternoon and evening.
Timing and Accumulation Forecast
The snowfall is expected to intensify during the critical evening rush hour period, with accumulation rates potentially reaching two centimetres per hour at peak intensity. By the time the night concludes, Montrealers should prepare for a substantial dump of up to 10 centimetres of snow, creating challenging conditions for both drivers and pedestrians.
During daylight hours on Tuesday, forecasters anticipate approximately five centimetres of accumulation before the heavier evening snowfall begins. The timing coincides with the busiest travel period of the day, raising concerns about traffic disruptions and extended commute times across the metropolitan area.
Temperature and Wind Chill Factors
The winter weather system brings more than just precipitation to the region. The daytime high is expected to reach only minus-8 degrees Celsius, with afternoon wind chill values making it feel like minus-14 degrees Celsius. Overnight conditions will remain frigid, with temperatures holding steady while wind chill dips to a bone-chilling minus-16 degrees Celsius.
These sub-zero temperatures will ensure that any accumulated snow remains frozen and potentially icy, particularly on untreated surfaces and secondary roads throughout the city.
Extended Forecast and Preparation
Wednesday will bring continued winter conditions to Montreal, though somewhat milder than Tuesday's deep freeze. Forecasters predict light snow continuing throughout the day with a slightly warmer high temperature of minus-4 degrees Celsius.
Residents are advised to exercise caution when traveling, allow extra time for commutes, and consider postponing non-essential trips during the peak snowfall period. The combination of accumulating snow, reduced visibility, and slippery road surfaces creates potentially dangerous conditions for all road users.
This weather event follows similar winter challenges faced by Montreal in recent weeks, including January snowfalls that required extensive municipal snow clearing operations along major thoroughfares like Sherbrooke Street.
