Reaction from the field
A significant snowstorm is poised to impact Quebec during the Easter weekend, with forecasts indicating that some areas may receive up to 45 cm of snow. This severe weather event is expected to disrupt travel plans and daily activities across the province, raising concerns among residents and local authorities alike.
The snowstorm is primarily attributed to a cold front moving through the region, which is expected to bring not only heavy snowfall but also freezing rain and strong winds. Meteorologists have warned that areas north of the Capitale-Nationale could see up to 10 mm of freezing rain, while southern Quebec may experience up to 35 mm of rain as temperatures fluctuate.
Wind gusts are anticipated to reach between 70 to 90 km/h in southern Quebec on Friday morning, further complicating conditions. These strong winds, combined with heavy snowfall, could lead to power outages and hazardous driving conditions. Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.
Specific regions are expected to bear the brunt of the snowfall. For instance, the Saguenay, Côte-Nord, and Bas-Saint-Laurent areas could see snow accumulation of 30 cm or more. Meanwhile, Val-d’Or is forecasted to receive between 10 to 15 cm of snow, and the Réserve faunique des Laurentides along with Baie-Comeau may experience 15 to 20 cm of snow.
In addition to the snowfall, areas north of the Capitale-Nationale are predicted to receive 5 to 10 cm of snow between Friday and Saturday morning. This combination of precipitation types poses a significant risk to both infrastructure and public safety.
As the storm approaches, local authorities are preparing for potential emergencies, including road closures and emergency services being on high alert. Residents are advised to stock up on essential supplies and stay informed through official weather updates.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timing and intensity of the storm, but forecasts suggest that the worst conditions will occur during the Easter weekend. As the situation develops, further updates will be provided to keep the public informed about the evolving weather conditions.
