Many spots across the province broke records for the hottest October day ever this weekend.
As a series of wildfires flared up north of Montreal over the weekend, the smell of smoke drifting through the city, temperatures are forecasted to stay above average into next week after a bit of rain.
Why is there a heat wave in October?
Thanks to a strong ridge of high pressure over eastern North America, an exceptional and unprecedented heatwave swept across Quebec to end the weekend.
RECOMMENDED: Montreal air quality alert: 18 active wildfires burning in Quebec
With temperatures soaring up to 15 degrees above seasonal norms, Montreal-Trudeau International Airport soared to 29.9°C on Sunday, setting a new all-time October temperature record according to a report by The Weather Network.
The previous high, recorded in October 2023, was 29.3°C.
The heat wave is expected to continue on Monday with another round of record-breaking heat.
A cold front is trying to make its way into the province, but the warmth is expected to stick around for a while. And it won’t be limited to southern Quebec.
Temperatures are expected to exceed 29°C on Monday in Montreal, Gatineau, and Saguenay, with a record 28.8°C in Val-d’Or for October 5; highs of 29°C are forecast for Montreal and Gatineau, 27°C in Sherbrooke and Saguenay, and the heat will persist across Quebec on Tuesday.
Temperatures could reach nearly 20°C in Kuujjuaq, which is exceptional for October.
Even Chibougamau will feel a touch of summer, with a high of 24°C and a “feels like” temperature of 26°C.
RECOMMENDED:
Complete guide to the best restaurants in Montreal
Best things to do with kids in Montreal
Best attractions in Montreal