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Montreal under freezing rain alert with up to 5 mm of ice before more snow moves in overnight

A warning has been issued for the Greater Montreal area warning of icy surfaces and hazardous travel conditions before temperatures drop.

Laura Osborne
Written by
Laura Osborne
Editor, Time Out Canada
Freezing rain
Photograph: Shutterstock / Dragan Mujan
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It’s official: Up to 5 mm of freezing rain followed by more snow is expected mainly over the island of Montreal and Laval, and it’s happening tonight.

According to Environment Canada, a low-pressure system is moving through southern Quebec today with a secondary low forming over New York State. 

When will the freezing rain start in Montreal?

The warm front lifting across the St. Lawrence Valley Saturday evening will bring light snow to Montreal late in the day, changing to freezing rain in the evening. 

The snow level will split Greater Montreal in two, with the west end receiving a mix of freezing rain and rain.

Freezing rain with up to 5 mm of ice will change to snow overnight with up to 5 cm of snow falling by Sunday morning.

Roads will become slippery, and isolated power outages are possible, while winds will strengthen from the northeast at 20–40 km/h, shifting northwest Sunday at 30–50 km/h.

North and east of Montreal—including Quebec City and the Highway 20 corridor—should expect mostly snow, with 10–20 cm likely.

Temperatures will rise to around 0°C Saturday evening, then fall below freezing again Sunday, with flurries and another 2 cm possible. Brief bursts of heavier snow may occur.

Winter driving conditions have returned: even small amounts of ice can make roads hazardous.

Roads and walkways will likely become icy and slippery.

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Freezing rain
Photograph: Shutterstock / IhorM

What is a freezing rain warning?

A freezing rain warning is issued when freezing rain is expected to pose a hazard to transportation or property or when freezing rain is expected for at least 2 hours.


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