A winter storm is expected to hit much of Quebec beginning Thursday night and lasting through Christmas Eve, according to Environment Canada forecasts.
Posted at 7:37
A “major” weather system is expected over the province that will bring significant amounts of snow, very strong winds and blowing snow, the federal agency said in a special weather report.
Snow is expected to start in several places Thursday evening. Regions north of the St. Lawrence such as the Laurentians, Lanaudière and Mauricie could receive between 20 and 40 centimeters by Friday evening. The flakes would continue to accumulate during the day on Saturday and could reach up to 60 centimeters in places.
For sectors near the river, snow levels will be less important as precipitation will turn to rain, Environment Canada warns. Freezing rain is also possible during the night from Thursday to Friday and the next morning.
The Weather Service is also forecasting a significant amount of rain in the southern regions of Quebec on Friday. Also, ice could form during the transition from snow to rain in Montreal and Montérégie.
In the east of the province, snow is due to start on Friday morning with possible accumulations of 10 to 20 centimeters, Environment Canada mentions.
In the evening or at night, precipitation could turn to rain and amounts could approach 30 millimeters.
These weather conditions are likely to make holiday travel difficult. Environment Canada advises postponing all non-essential travel during the storm. Power outages are also possible.
The population is encouraged to make emergency plans and to carry emergency kits with drinking water, food, medicine, a first aid kit and a flashlight.