Quebec residents who began their week enjoying warm, dry weather and terrace temperatures in the 20s are facing a sharp climatic reversal. As the calendar approaches May, a significant drop in temperature is expected to bring a return of winter-like conditions across several sectors of the province.
A Dramatic Temperature Shift
The transition from spring warmth to near-freezing temperatures will be stark. In Montreal, the contrast is particularly evident, with a high of 23.2°C recorded on Monday potentially dropping to a low of 8°C by Friday.
Meteorologist Alexandra Giroux notes that gray skies and abundant rain in certain areas will dominate the forecast leading up to Saturday. However, the arrival of a trough over Quebec may cause these precipitations to transition into snow between Thursday and Saturday.
Regional Snow Outlook
The timing and impact of the snowfall will vary by region. For areas north of the river, snowflakes could begin to appear as early as Thursday, specifically in Val-d’Or and Chibougamau, as well as sectors further north of Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean.
Residents in these northern regions should monitor the situation for possible snow accumulations. Meanwhile, those south of the river may also experience wintery weather.
In the Chaudière-Appalaches region, snowflakes and potential accumulations are possible by Saturday. According to Giroux, this snow could arrive south of the river during the night from Friday to Saturday, or potentially Saturday morning.
Looking Ahead to Saturday
Despite the cold snap, there is a silver lining for the weekend. While temperatures are expected to remain well below seasonal norms, they should rise sufficiently during the day on Saturday.
This projected warming means that any snow that falls could melt quickly, providing some relief after the unpredictable fluctuations of the spring 2026 season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the snow expected to arrive?
Snowflakes could begin appearing as early as Thursday in regions north of the river, while areas south of the river, such as Chaudière-Appalaches, may spot snow from Friday night into Saturday morning.
Which specific regions are mentioned in the forecast?
The forecast highlights Val-d’Or, Chibougamau, and sectors north of Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean for early activity, as well as the Chaudière-Appalaches region for possible later accumulations.
Will the snow accumulate and stay on the ground?
While accumulations are possible in certain sectors, temperatures are expected to rise on Saturday, which should allow any fallen snow to melt quickly.
How do you prepare your home and wardrobe for a spring that refuses to settle?
