A widespread winter storm is impacting much of Eastern Canada, bringing freezing rain, blowing snow, ice pellets, and strong winds. As of Monday morning, orange alerts – the second-highest level – are in effect for Ontario, Quebec, and parts of Nova Scotia, signaling potentially hazardous conditions.
Widespread Disruptions
Blizzard conditions are currently underway in Northern Ontario and Quebec, with heavy snowfall and strong winds reported in areas including Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, and Val d’Or. The north and south shores of the eastern St. Lawrence in Quebec could accumulate between 40 and 60 centimetres of snow. Further south, the Ottawa and Montreal areas are bracing for up to 15 millimetres of ice accumulation from freezing rain through Tuesday evening, accompanied by southwesterly winds reaching up to 70 km/h, and up to 90 km/h in Montreal and its western regions.
Regional Impacts
In Ontario, Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued blizzard warnings for Toronto, London, and regions around Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, citing “dangerous snow squalls.” An initial, intense snow squall was expected Monday morning, followed by a temperature drop and icy surfaces. Northwesterly winds of 70 to 90 km/h are also forecast. Thousands are currently without power in both Ontario and Quebec.
Montreal is experiencing icy streets and sidewalks due to freezing rain. Urgences-santé, the Montreal-area ambulance service, reported receiving over 100 calls per hour, primarily related to falls resulting in injury. Meteorologist Eric Tomlinson noted that while precipitation shifted to rain in Montreal late Monday morning, freezing rain continues north of the city, with a potential for re-freezing overnight.
In Nova Scotia, Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting extreme winds – up to 140 km/h – in the northern part of the province, particularly the northeastern tip. Yellow warnings are in place for most of the Maritimes, with the potential for freezing rain and localized flooding.
Travel and Transportation
Numerous flights have been cancelled or delayed in Montreal, Toronto, and London, Ontario. Approximately 12 per cent of flights were affected at Montreal’s Trudeau airport, while over 60 flights were delayed and about 10 cancelled at Toronto’s Pearson airport. Via Rail cancelled morning trains on its Quebec City-Windsor route and adjusted afternoon schedules. Passengers were notified in advance and offered options for cancellation or rescheduling.
What May Happen Next
If temperatures remain low, the existing ice accumulation could worsen travel conditions and extend power outages. Should the winds persist or intensify, particularly in Nova Scotia, further power disruptions and structural damage are possible. A shift in the storm’s track could alter the areas most severely impacted, but widespread disruptions are likely to continue for at least another 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of weather alert is currently in place for most of Ontario, Quebec, and parts of Nova Scotia?
Orange alerts – the second-highest level – are currently in place for these regions, indicating potentially hazardous weather conditions.
What are the expected wind speeds in Montreal?
Southwesterly winds of up to 70 km/h are expected in Montreal, with winds potentially reaching up to 90 km/h in the western parts of the island.
What is the primary concern for emergency services in Montreal?
The primary concern is the high number of calls related to people falling on icy surfaces and sustaining injuries.
How will you prepare for severe weather events in your community?
