A powerful winter storm is sweeping through Eastern Quebec, causing significant disruption across the region. Environment Canada has issued blizzard warnings for large parts of the province, with snow accumulations expected to reach as much as 70 centimeters by Tuesday morning. The storm, which is being called one of the most intense in recent years, is making roads treacherous, forcing schools to close, and causing widespread power outages.
Severe Weather Conditions
The snowstorm is continuing to intensify, and conditions are becoming more dangerous as the day goes on. According to Environment Canada, the storm is expected to bring snowfall accumulations of 40 to 70 centimeters, combined with winds gusting up to 90 km/h. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds is creating blizzard-like conditions that will make driving virtually impossible in many parts of the province.
“The visibility is almost zero in some areas,” says Marc-André Dubois, a spokesperson for the Quebec Ministry of Transportation. “The snow is coming down in thick sheets, and the wind is blowing it horizontally. Our snow plows are working around the clock, but the wind is making it nearly impossible to keep the roads clear.”
For residents of Montreal, conditions are less severe, with light snow expected to turn into cloud cover by midday. However, the temperature will remain -10°C, and gusts of up to 70 km/h will make it feel much colder. The winds are expected to intensify throughout the afternoon, causing widespread blowing snow and drifting.
But it’s in the Eastern Quebec regions where the storm’s full impact is being felt. Areas such as Rimouski, the Gaspé Peninsula, and the Lower St. Lawrence are seeing the heaviest snowfall, with 40 to 50 centimeters already accumulated and another 20 to 30 centimeters expected by Tuesday morning.
Local authorities have warned residents to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel, as many highways, including Highway 132 and Route 299, are impassable due to deep snowdrifts and hazardous driving conditions.
Widespread Closures and School Interruptions
With snow piling up and visibility dropping rapidly, several municipalities and school districts across the province have been forced to shut down operations for the day. The Côte-du-Sud School Board, which serves the Chaudière-Appalaches region, and several schools in the Gaspé Peninsula have announced closures due to unsafe travel conditions.
In Rimouski, buses were grounded, and classes were canceled in schools in the Rimouski-Neigette sector. The Gaspé Peninsula School Board has also declared a snow day for all students and staff.
“Unfortunately, our school buses cannot safely navigate these road conditions,” said Lise Tremblay, director of the Gaspé Peninsula School Board. “We are advising parents to keep their children at home today.”
Mont-Joli Airport, located in the Lower St. Lawrence, has also reported several delays and cancellations, with flights to and from Montreal and Quebec City affected. Passengers are being advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates.
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Despite these closures, essential services such as hospitals and emergency response teams remain operational, though some have been forced to delay appointments due to weather conditions.
Power Outages Affect Thousands
As the storm rages on, Hydro-Québec has reported that over 15,000 homes across the region are without power due to fallen trees, damaged power lines, and heavy snow accumulation on electrical equipment.
The Rimouski, Gaspé, and Baie-Comeau areas have been hit hardest, with power outages affecting thousands of households. Crews are working to restore power as quickly as possible, but officials warn that some areas may be without electricity for several hours, if not longer.
“We are facing significant challenges due to the wind and the snow. The safety of our repair teams is our top priority, and we ask residents to remain patient as we work to restore power,” said Michel Gagnon, a spokesperson for Hydro-Québec.
Economic Impact and Emergency Services
While the storm’s impact on daily life is significant, there are also concerns about the economic ramifications. The storm is expected to slow down the transport of goods, particularly along major highways, which could lead to delays in product deliveries.
However, local businesses in affected areas have begun to adapt. Local grocery stores, particularly those in Rimouski and the Lower St. Lawrence, have experienced an increase in foot traffic as residents rush to stock up on essentials. With the storm likely to last through the night, the supply chain will likely see further disruptions.
In response to the storm’s growing intensity, the provincial government has declared a state of emergency in several communities, providing resources for snow removal, emergency services, and local shelters.
“We are doing everything we can to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents,” said Frédéric Nadeau, the Quebec Minister of Public Safety. “Our teams are on the ground assisting with snow removal and helping those affected by power outages and severe conditions.”
Advice for Residents
The public is being urged to exercise caution during the storm. Authorities are advising against non-essential travel, as roads are slick and difficult to navigate. Residents are encouraged to stay at home and keep emergency kits with extra food, water, and blankets in case of power loss.
With forecasts predicting more snow and freezing temperatures throughout the week, the situation remains fluid, and residents are urged to stay informed by monitoring local news updates and weather reports.
Stay Safe, Quebec
The storm may be overwhelming, but experts advise staying calm and prepared. While the storm’s impact on daily life is significant, the province has responded with resources and action to help manage the effects. As Quebec braces for additional snowfall, the message is clear: stay home, stay safe, and wait for the storm to pass.
