Posted May 1, 2023 at 10:13 p.m
May was going to be eventful in Quebec this year. Forecast.
In summary:
April extended
There are some differences between April and May. In fact, a regime change is taking place: the shower periods are shortening. This is the beginning of the transition to the warm season. This year it seems that this new paradigm is taking longer to establish itself.
“The air mass conflict with the cold, which is more present in Quebec than the warm air mass, is tantamount to persistent disturbances,” predicts meteorologist Réjean Ouimet. This applies in particular to the opening of the month of May. A month with at times heavier rainfall, but not a month with endless floods. »
Derech in May
Last May an extremely rare event occurred: a derecho hit southern Quebec. This long series of severe thunderstorms can create tornadoes and cause extensive damage. In the year 2022, May was particularly hot. During this famous Patriots weekend, temperatures of 30°C and above combined with humidity favored the development of this blustery weather. According to forecasters, a few stormy days are to be expected, but more towards the end of the month.
“The heat that will characterize the heart of the month will be characterized by convective precipitation, namely showers of shorter duration,” continues Réjean Ouimet. The intensity of the heat and the associated humidity levels will bring thunderstorms. Remember that in Quebec in May we can experience an average of ten days with thunderstorms. Which is likely to happen later this year. »
Still snow
Like it or not, in May it snows in Quebec. However, some regions are more likely to receive them than others. If you live in the south of the province, the chances of seeing snowflakes before next fall are slim.
“The snow will be mainly destined for regions that usually see it in May,” explains Réjean Ouimet. The Laurentides nature reserve in Charlevoix and Gaspésie. For the other regions, it is continuity with April, which saw very little snowfall this year. »