Montreal Faces a Freezing Rain Storm
Montreal began the week under a harsh winter weather event as freezing rain swept across the city, coating roads, sidewalks, and trees in a slick layer of ice. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued an orange weather alert for much of southern Quebec, signaling dangerous conditions and the potential for rapid ice accumulation. As residents head outside on Monday, authorities urge caution and preparedness to reduce the risk of injuries and travel disruptions.
What the orange alert means for Montrealers
An orange weather alert is more serious than a routine advisory. It indicates that significant ice accumulation is expected and could cause hazardous travel, power outages, and property damage. The freezing rain began overnight and is expected to continue through the day, with the risk of continued coating on untreated surfaces. Municipal crews will focus on de-icing major routes, bridges, and transit corridors, but drivers and pedestrians should assume slick conditions even on seemingly clear pavement.
Travel and commute: how to stay safe
If you must travel, prepare for slower commutes and potential closures. Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle, including a blanket, flashlight, traction aids like bags of sand or cat litter, a fully charged phone, and non-perishable snacks. Allow extra travel time, drive at reduced speeds, and maintain a generous following distance. Bridges and overpasses tend to freeze first and may ice up more quickly than surrounding streets.
Pedestrians should wear shoes with good traction, avoid rushing across ice, and use handrails where available. Sidewalks and steps can be perilously slick, so take small, deliberate steps and pause if you feel unsteady. If you lose balance, try to curl your body and roll to a safe side rather than fighting to regain a standing position immediately.
Power outages and property safety
Freezing rain can weigh down tree limbs and power lines, increasing the chance of outages and falling branches. Municipal and utility crews are on standby, but residents should be prepared for potential interruptions to electricity or heat. When outages occur, stay away from downed lines, and report them to local authorities or the utility provider. If you heat with a wood stove or fireplace, ensure proper ventilation and safe fuel storage to prevent risks during extended cold snaps.
What Quebec residents can expect
Forecasts suggest that the freezing rain will gradually taper as warmer air mixes in, but lingering ice could persist through the afternoon and into the evening. Temperatures are expected to hover around the freezing mark, preventing rapid thaw but maintaining slick conditions on untreated surfaces. Schools and workplaces typically monitor conditions closely; authorities may adjust schedules based on road conditions and transit reliability.
Tips from authorities and experts
- Limit nonessential travel; work from home if possible.
- Check local transit advisories for service updates and delays.
- Use de-icing products on driveways, steps, and walkways; spread salt or a de-icer to improve traction.
- Keep a charged phone, car charger, and emergency contacts handy.
- Dress in layers and keep extra warm clothing in your vehicle in case you’re stranded.
Longer-term outlook and regional context
Weather events like this are not unusual for southern Quebec in late winter, but the combination of freezing rain and wind can amplify hazards. Residents should stay tuned to updates from Environment and Climate Change Canada and municipal advisories. As the city works to clear ice from streets and sidewalks, the public can help by avoiding unnecessary outings, assisting neighbors who may be more vulnerable, and reporting hazards to the proper channels.
Bottom line
Montreal’s freezing rain event serves as a reminder to slow down and plan for difficult travel conditions. By staying informed, dressing appropriately, and taking precautionary steps around the home and on the street, residents can reduce risk during this ice-laden start to the week.
