Quebec faces extreme Arctic freeze following mild winter
Following an unusually warm winter season, Quebec is preparing for a severe three-day cold snap as an Arctic air mass moves across the province. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) announced Sunday that western Quebec will experience frigid conditions that will gradually spread eastward.
The Ville-Marie region is expected to see daytime temperatures below –20°C and nighttime lows dropping below –30°C through Wednesday. With wind chill factors, temperatures could feel as cold as –37°C.
ECCC has issued extreme cold warnings due to increased risks of frostbite and hypothermia. The agency highlighted particular concerns for vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, those with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and individuals lacking adequate shelter.
The weather agency advised residents to watch for cold-related health symptoms, including shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain, weakness, numbness, and discoloration in extremities. They also reminded pet owners to keep animals indoors during extreme conditions.
ECCC meteorologist Gina Ressler emphasized that this cold snap represents the most severe winter conditions Quebec has faced in two years. "While such cold weather is typical for January in Montreal, it might feel jarring since it's the coldest air we've seen this season," Ressler noted, explaining that last winter was exceptionally mild.
Ressler advised Quebecers to stay informed about weather forecasts and limit outdoor activities. For necessary outdoor excursions, she recommended layered clothing, including wind-resistant outer layers and hats for heat retention.
The severe weather conditions are expected to drive electricity demand to near-record levels. Hydro-Québec anticipates peak consumption on Tuesday and Wednesday, approaching their previous record of 43,124 megawatts set on February 3, 2023, when temperatures reached –26°C.
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