Residents across southern Quebec are being urged to exercise extreme caution on Monday as a widespread freezing rain event continues to create hazardous conditions. An orange weather alert, issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), remains in effect for regions including the Greater Montreal area, the Outaouais, the Laurentians, Lanaudière, and the Eastern Townships.
Hazardous Conditions and Travel Disruptions
ECCC meteorologist Olivier Veer stated that up to 15 millimetres of ice accumulation is possible in some areas. While the freezing rain is expected to taper off early in the afternoon, it will be followed by strong winds, with gusts potentially reaching 90 km/hour in the Montreal area. Veer warned that these winds, combined with existing ice accumulation on surfaces, trees, and power lines, pose a significant new hazard.
Travel is significantly impacted. Transports Québec spokesperson Sarah Bensadoun recommends checking Quebec 511 for road closures and warnings, noting that roads are either partly or completely icy. Montreal’s Trudeau airport is advising passengers to verify their flight status, with 12 per cent of scheduled flights – primarily domestic – cancelled as of 9 a.m. Monday.
Public transit is also affected. The REM has suspended service between the Deux-Montagnes and Bois-Franc stations, with shuttle buses providing an alternative. In the Eastern Townships, the Société de transport de Sherbrooke has temporarily suspended its network. Quebec City buses are operating, but the transit agency is on high alert.
Emergency Services and Power Outages
Urgences-santé reported a surge in calls, receiving approximately 100 calls per hour related to falls – a significant increase from the usual 70 to 80. As of noon on Monday, Hydro-Québec reported over 25,000 clients experiencing power outages.
Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada stated that city crews have been fully mobilized to clear roadways. Residents can report roadway issues by calling 311.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are under the orange weather alert?
The orange weather alert covers much of southern Quebec, including the Greater Montreal region, the Outaouais, the Laurentians, Lanaudière, and the Eastern Townships.
What is the expected wind speed in Montreal?
Gusts of up to 90 km/hour are possible in the Montreal area.
What should I do if I need to travel?
Motorists are advised to check for road closures and warnings on Quebec 511 and to exercise extreme caution, as roads are either partly or completely icy. Passengers are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
As conditions remain hazardous, how will you prioritize safety in your daily plans?
