MONTREAL — Environment Canada has issued a “potentially critical” freezing rain warning for Montreal and several parts of southern Quebec, with a severe weather system expected to move through the region between Wednesday and Thursday. Meteorologists are warning that 20 to 30 millimetres of ice accretion could accumulate within a 24-hour period, a volume capable of paralyzing transportation and causing widespread damage to infrastructure. The special weather statement covers a vast area, including Greater Montreal, Montérégie, Outaouais, the Laurentians, Lanaudière, Mauricie, Centre-du-Québec, and Quebec City.
Public safety officials are urging residents to prepare for significant disruptions, as the heavy ice buildup is likely to cause tree branches to snap and power lines to fail. Hydro-Québec has already placed crews on standby to address anticipated outages. Authorities are strongly advising the public to delay or cancel non-essential travel, warning that roads and sidewalks will become exceptionally hazardous. “The magnitude of this event could bring certain services to a standstill,” noted an Environment Canada official, emphasizing the risk of injuries from slips and falls.
The storm follows an unseasonably mild start to the week, with temperatures reaching a high of 14°C on Monday and 12°C on Tuesday. However, a sharp cold front is expected to move in on Tuesday night, causing temperatures to drop toward 0°C by Wednesday morning. This transition will turn the initial rain into freezing rain, which is expected to persist through Wednesday night. By Thursday, the system may transition into periods of snow accompanied by strong winds, further complicating visibility and travel.
The situation is expected to be further exacerbated by a “flash freeze” on Thursday night, as temperatures are forecast to plummet to –12°C. Officials warn that the sudden drop in temperature will cause any standing water or slush to harden instantly, making cleanup and salt distribution efforts significantly more difficult. Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts, ensure emergency kits are ready, and clear drainage areas around their homes to prevent localized flooding before the freeze sets in.
