Icy Roads to Heavy Rain: Quebec’s Weather Takes a Dangerous Turn
The weather in Quebec has been nothing short of chaotic this weekend. A system swept through the province, bringing freezing drizzle and causing treacherous driving conditions on Saturday. Unfortunately, this wintry challenge is only the beginning, as another weather system promises heavy rainfall and rising temperatures, posing new risks for the days ahead.
Saturday morning saw freezing drizzle blanketing regions like Abitibi-Témiscamingue and Outaouais, creating slick and hazardous roads. This icy grip extended eastward along the Saint Lawrence River, with lingering risks of freezing rain into Sunday morning. Reports of accidents underscored the danger—Saint-Hyacinthe saw a road closure after a mishap on Route 235, and Montérégie dealt with partial lane closures on major highways due to vehicles losing control.
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As Saturday gave way to Sunday, the situation began to evolve. A new weather system moved into southern Quebec, bringing with it unseasonably warm temperatures and a deluge of rain. By Monday evening, areas like the Saint Lawrence Valley, including Capitale-Nationale and Mauricie, could receive up to 50 mm of rain. The melting snow, combined with heavy rainfall, raises concerns about localized flooding and runoff in certain regions.
Despite the warming trend, the north and east of the province aren’t out of the woods. Overnight from Sunday to Monday, freezing rain is expected to linger in Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspésie, and Côte-Nord, with these areas potentially seeing up to 5 mm of ice accumulation.
Motorists should exercise extreme caution. With gatherings and travel planned for the New Year, conditions on the roads remain unpredictable. Officials advise checking the Quebec 511 road conditions tool and adapting travel plans accordingly. Remember, slower speeds and extra travel time can make the difference in ensuring safety.
The dramatic temperature rise to as much as 10°C in Montreal by Monday is remarkable for this time of year. However, it comes with risks, as melting snow and rain combine to strain waterways and infrastructure. As the week progresses, temperatures are expected to drop again, bringing a return to more seasonable cold.
This wild cocktail of ice, rain, and warmth serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature. Whether it’s freezing drizzle or heavy rain, staying alert and prepared is key to navigating Quebec’s unpredictable weather.
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