After a relatively dry and snowless Christmas, dozens of flights have been cancelled and delayed in Montreal on Monday amid freezing rain and a snowstorm heading toward the area.
The Montreal-Trudeau International Airport reports that as of 9 a.m., at least 74 flights have been cancelled for the day.
Rosa Shi is trying to fly to Newark with her sister, but they are spending more time than planned at the airport after her flight was rescheduled. She said it is likely they will have to stay another night in Montreal.
“I’m sad because I wanted to go home, for, like, New Year’s and stuff,” she said.
READ MORE: Weather warning in effect for greater Montreal on Monday
Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for a swath of southern Quebec starting Monday afternoon through Tuesday evening.
The weather agency says up to 25 centimetres of snow is expected for several regions, including Montreal, the Laurentians, the Eastern Townships and the Quebec City area.
“In addition, moderate to strong easterly winds may occasionally reduce visibility in blowing snow, especially over exposed areas,” Environment Canada said.
Precipitation, sleet and freezing rain began to fall early Monday morning in the Ottawa area and near the United States border in Quebec.
The bout of winter weather could make travel difficult, according to Environment Canada. Drivers should be careful on the roads as weather conditions change.
Montreal police are advising motorists to slow down, keep their distance and be safe on the roads.
“Don’t forget to adapt your driving to prevent skidding and collisions,” the police force said in a tweet.
The Société de transport de Montréal, the city’s public transit agency, is asking commuters to carefully plan more time for their trips due to the snow.
The multi-functional path for cyclists and pedestrians on the new Samuel de Champlain Bridge, which links Montreal to the south shore, is also closed until late Tuesday night due to the weather.
Officials say the path will reopen after work crews clear it and ensure it is safe for all users.
— With files from Global News’ Dan Spector and the Canadian Press
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