Beware a weekend snow risk building across southern Quebec
A chance for weekend snow could cause slick roads and slow travel to close out the weekend
Weather Highlights:
An approaching storm could produce a swath of snow in southern Quebec
Cold air in place will ensure precipitation remains mostly snow
Precise totals remain uncertain at this time
Gusty conditions in spots could reduce visibility along the St. Lawrence
Weekend snowfall could slicken roads
A storm expected to cross the Great Lakes this weekend could bring a swath of accumulating snow to portions of southern Quebec on Sunday, potentially leading to slick roads and snarled travel throughout the region.
RELATED: Why the first snowfall of the season can catch drivers by surprise
Residents are advised to keep a close eye on the forecast over the next couple of days, and prepare to adjust travel plans accordingly.
Forecasters expect snow to begin on Sunday morning and continue through the day. Gusty winds are also expected along the St. Lawrence, which could lead to poor visibility when combined with falling snow.
Several factors could affect how much snow falls throughout Metro Montreal.
Snowfall amounts will depend on the precise track of the storm. A path just a bit farther south could drag the bulk of the precipitation south of the international border.
Marginal temperatures may also play a role. A colder scenario could bring Montreal its first accumulating snow of the season, with the possibility of significant, shovellable totals.
However, slightly warmer temperatures would limit accumulating snow to the higher elevations north of the city, with only a few centimetres possible in the city proper.
Montreal averages about 15 cm of snow in a typical November.
Safety tips for driving in adverse weather
Install winter tires. Winter tires can improve stopping distance by up to 30 per cent in wintry conditions.
Prepare an emergency kit. Include the basics like snacks, first aid kit, flashlights and blankets.
Plan your travel. If possible, postpone trips during active weather and especially freezing rain. Driving is not worth the risk.
Adjust your speed. A gentle reminder that stopping distance increases exponentially as your speed increases.