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Winter storm hits Greater Montreal

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Winter storm hits Montreal
WATCH ABOVE: It seems winter isn’t over yet with heavy winds and blowing snow promise messy road conditions across Montreal. Global's Elysia Bryan-Baynes reports – Mar 14, 2017

A winter storm has hit Greater Montreal, causing several accidents on the roads.

“Winter driving calls for extra care, even in normal winter conditions. Snow and ice can reduce tire traction on roads, and heavy or blowing snow can make visibility poor.”

Areas affected include:

  • Châteauguay – La Prairie area
  • Laval
  • Longueuil – Varennes
  • Montreal island

READ MORE: Montreal transit buses, cars, trucks slam into each other in winter weather

According to Environment Canada, heavy and heavy blowing snow “will hit much of Southern and Central Quebec.”

READ MORE: Montrealers celebrate the joys of winter cycling

Experts explained the weather is caused by a low pressure system developing over the central U.S., then making its way to the coast of New England.

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READ MORE: Montreal police help deliver baby at home during winter storm

About 15 – 25 centimetres of snow are expected to fall through ’til Wednesday evening, especially in the Eastern Townships and the Beauce region.

WATCH BELOW: Winter in Montreal

Staying safe

Here are a few tips, provided by Public Safety Canada, to safe during the winter storm:

Slow down

Fog, black ice, slush or snow-covered roads can make driving dangerous.

READ MORE: Snowy owl captures hearts in Montreal’s West Island

Drive slowly and leave plenty of distance between vehicles.

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Windshield fluid

Fill up on winter washer fluid and replace wiper blades that streak.

Make sure there is enough windshield washer fluid in the reservoir and that it is rated up to -40°C.

READ MORE: Montreal’s first snowfall prompts winter tire frenzy as deadline approaches

Carry an extra jug in the vehicle.

Top up on gas

When driving in bad weather, think cautiously, plan ahead and make sure you have enough fuel.

READ MORE: Montreal cancelling snow-removal contract

Keep the fuel tank at least half full.

See and be seen

Clear snow from the hood, roof, windows and lights.

Clear all windows of fog or ice.

READ MORE: Do you fit in one of these four Montreal cyclist categories?

If visibility becomes poor, find a place to safely pull off the road as soon as possible.

Get an emergency car kit

Public Safety Canada advises that the basic emergency kit for cars should include the following items:

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  • Non-perishable food
  • Plastic water bottles (change every six months)
  • Blanket
  • Extra clothes and shoes
  • First aid kit (including a seatbelt cutter)
  • Small shovel, scraper and snowbrush
  • Candle in a deep can and matches
  • Crank flashlight
  • Whistle (to attract attention)
  • Road maps
  • A copy of your emergency plan

READ MORE: Skier’s eye-catching photo on giant snow bank stuns Montrealers

You can also keep these inside your trunk:

  • Sand, salt or cat litter (non clumping)
  • Antifreeze/windshield washer fluid
  • Tow rope
  • Jumper cables
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Warning light or road flares

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