Ottawa, Montreal Brace for Major Ice Storm with 40mm Freezing Rain Expected

Eastern Ontario and Southern Quebec are preparing for a major ice storm. Up to 40mm of freezing rain is expected, potentially causing widespread power outages.
By Newsroom | Weather, Canada |

Significant Accumulation Expected; Widespread Disruptions Feared

Authorities have issued alerts across eastern Ontario and southern Quebec for a prolonged freezing rain event, forecasting substantial ice buildup that threatens widespread power outages, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted transportation networks.

Winter Storm to Bring Ice and Snow to Ottawa and Montreal - 1

Ottawa and Montreal, along with surrounding regions including Gatineau and Québec City, are bracing for what Environment Canada describes as a major ice storm. Projections indicate the potential for 20 to 40 millimetres of freezing rain to accumulate over a period that could stretch for 24 hours or more.

Winter Storm to Bring Ice and Snow to Ottawa and Montreal - 2

This level of ice accumulation, officials warn, carries the risk of significant damage due to its weight. Specifically, the weather agency points to the potential for widespread power disruptions, considerable strain on trees and other infrastructure, and severe impacts on travel. In some areas, warnings extend to up to 15 cm of snow and ice pellets, adding to the complexity of the impending weather.

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Winter Storm to Bring Ice and Snow to Ottawa and Montreal - 3

Persistent Precipitation Threatens Prolonged Impact

The storm system, drawing moisture from the southern U.S., began affecting Ontario Tuesday evening and is expected to persist through the week. Southern Ontario, particularly the 401 corridor in eastern Ontario, is anticipated to experience heavy rain and embedded thunderstorms Wednesday morning. However, forecasts suggest some areas within eastern Ontario could face up to 24 hours of continuous freezing rain.

Winter Storm to Bring Ice and Snow to Ottawa and Montreal - 4

The prolonged nature of the freezing rain is a key concern, as it facilitates the build-up of thick ice coatings. This extended duration is considered particularly problematic for densely populated areas like Montreal and its surroundings.

Early Power Outages Reported

Even before the peak of the storm, Hydro-Québec reported nearly 9,000 addresses without power as of Wednesday morning in Quebec. This early disruption signals the potential severity of the ongoing weather event. For regions like Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, conditions are expected to include strong winds, snow, and ice pellets, alongside the winter storm warnings.

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Broader Context: A Messy Mix Across Regions

Beyond the immediate freezing rain threat, the storm is anticipated to bring a "messy mix" of rain, ice, and snow across eastern Ontario and southern Quebec. This precipitation is projected to continue into Saturday night for areas including Ottawa and Montreal, potentially impacting travel and daily life well into the weekend. The sheer volume of precipitation is significant, with some projections indicating 20-40 mm of rain across southern Quebec and eastern Ontario, coupled with potential snowfall amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the weather forecast for Ottawa and Montreal this week?
Ottawa and Montreal are expecting a major ice storm with 20 to 40 millimetres of freezing rain. Some areas could also see up to 15 cm of snow and ice pellets.
Q: How long will the freezing rain last in Eastern Ontario and Southern Quebec?
The freezing rain is expected to last for 24 hours or more in some areas, particularly along the 401 corridor in eastern Ontario. This prolonged event could continue into Saturday night.
Q: What problems could the ice storm cause in Ottawa and Montreal?
The heavy ice accumulation could cause widespread power outages, damage trees and infrastructure, and severely disrupt travel by road and air. Nearly 9,000 homes in Quebec already lost power early Wednesday.
Q: Why is this ice storm considered 'major' for Ottawa and Montreal?
The storm is considered major because of the large amount of freezing rain (up to 40mm) and the long duration (over 24 hours) expected. This combination increases the risk of significant damage and widespread power failures.
Q: What is Hydro-Québec reporting about power outages due to the storm?
As of Wednesday morning, Hydro-Québec reported that nearly 9,000 addresses were without power. This is an early sign of the potential severity of the storm's impact on electricity.