Mother nature risks thwarting the plans a few hours before Christmas Eve with the “weather bomb” which is expected in Quebec and which should leave significant amounts of snow.
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According to Environment Canada, if we speak of a “weather bomb”, it is because the depression coming from the United States is intensifying very quickly.
“As the system advances, the low pressure trough is filled with moisture which should result in winds and significant amounts of snow”, explained Samir Al-Alwani, meteorologist.
Photo archives QMI Agency, Joël Lemay
Unlike Montreal and south of the river, the Quebec region should be spared from the rain, but in return, it should receive several centimeters of snow.
Precipitation is expected to begin this evening, a little after midnight. The expected amounts of snow are around 20 to 25 cm. From Friday, the winds increase and add to the game. Areas such as Île-d’Orléans could experience peak winds of up to 110 km/h.
“It is certain that on high ground, going towards Beaupré and Charlevoix, the accumulations could reach 30 to 40 cm.”
Winds that can cause damage
“What is important to mention are the winds which could reach 110 km/h in places. We are talking about wind that could cause damage.
Power outages may occur. Loose objects could also be blown away.
“Wind and snow mean reduced visibility on the roads or almost zero with blowing snow. It does not help if we want to move,” added Mr. Al-Alwani.
Several regions will be affected by this “weather bomb”. The Laurentians region could receive up to 40 cm of snow and probably even between 50 and 60 cm in the Tremblant sector.
As for the North Shore, we also expect a lot of snow, with 30 to 50 cm. In addition, storm surges could occur during Saturday’s high tide hours on several coastal areas. Environment Canada will update its predictions later this afternoon.