Montreal residents experiencing the city's current damp, rainy conditions might be wondering if this is the new normal for November. According to meteorologists, the answer is a definitive no—this weather pattern is merely a temporary interlude before winter truly establishes its grip.
The Meteorological Explanation Behind the Rain
Environment Canada meteorologist Simon Legault explains that Montreal is currently positioned on the warmer side of a low-pressure system, allowing milder air to dominate our region. "We're in the warm sector of this system," Legault notes, "which explains why temperatures have remained above seasonal norms and precipitation has fallen as rain rather than snow."
What's Coming Next: A Return to Seasonal Norms
The current rainy pattern represents a significant departure from Montreal's typical November weather. Historical data shows that November normally brings Montreal's first substantial snowfall, with an average of about 20 centimeters accumulating throughout the month.
The transition back to colder conditions will be gradual but noticeable:
- Thursday will see temperatures hovering around 4°C with additional rainfall
- Friday begins a cooling trend with highs near 2°C
- The weekend brings temperatures dropping below freezing, with overnight lows reaching -4°C
- Early next week may see daytime temperatures struggling to reach 0°C
Understanding Montreal's Unique Seasonal Transition
This temporary warm spell doesn't signal a permanent shift in Montreal's climate patterns. The city is simply experiencing a brief respite from the typical November chill before winter conditions fully settle in.
"Nothing lasts forever—not even this unseasonable November rain," Legault emphasizes, reminding Montrealers that the seasonal transition to winter, while occasionally delayed, remains inevitable.
Residents should enjoy the temporary break from winter coats while preparing for the colder conditions ahead. The familiar Montreal winter, with its characteristic snow and freezing temperatures, is merely waiting in the wings.
