MONTREAL – Hydro-Quebec is readying special teams in anticipation of an expected ice storm that it fears will knock out power.
Environment Canada says the Montreal area is slated to get 10 mm of freezing rain overnight, which will be coupled with 90 km/h winds the subsequent evening. It’s something that Hydro-Quebec officials fear could down tree branches and interrupt electrical service.
LIVEBLOG: Montreal winter weather updates
Of additional concern are the roads, which will be travelled by several commuters and students Monday morning returning from winter holidays.
“Going back from the holidays, people are returning to work tomorrow,” said Bruno Marquis, meteorologist with Environment Canada. “It could be difficult on the roads.”
Environment Canada also predicts that after a brief warming spell that’s expected to bring the temperature up to six degrees by Monday morning, the mercury will plunge down to -16°C by Monday night. Coupled with the heavy winds, the windchill is expected to reach -29°C.
“It’s pretty dangerous,” said Alex Carruthers, a Westmount resident.
“It’s going to be strange for drivers. We pretty much parked our car.”
Although the winter is off to a bitter cold start, the sudden changes only add to the confusion and frustration, something Montrealers have learnt to deal with.
READ MORE: Wedding at damaged St. James United Church goes on amid freezing temperatures
“We get the most incredible changes all the time,” said one NDG resident.
“You just have to go with it. I don’t think you can prepare for it.”
Comments