Having so far this winter had a period of unseasonably mild temperatures, the Canadian province of Quebec is preparing for a severe cold snap over the next three days, according to local media.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) stated on Sunday that “an Arctic air mass with light to moderate winds has settled over western Quebec and will spread eastward in the coming days.”
In the Ville-Marie area, the agency warned that daytime highs will remain below –20°C, with overnight lows plunging below –30°C through Wednesday. Wind chill values could make it feel as cold as –37°C.
ECCC issues extreme cold warnings when there is an increased risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Vulnerable populations include young children, the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and those without adequate shelter.
“Watch for symptoms of cold-related health issues: shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain, weakness, numbness, and discoloration in fingers and toes,” the ECCC advised. “If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s also too cold for your pet.”
Gina Ressler, a meteorologist with ECCC, noted that this cold snap will be the most intense Quebec has experienced in two years, having had an unusually warm winter last year.
“While such cold weather is typical for January in Montreal, it might feel jarring since it’s the coldest air we’ve seen this season,” Ressler explained. “Last winter was exceptionally mild, with no significant cold spells.”
As temperatures drop, Ressler urged Quebecers to monitor weather forecasts and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. If venturing out, she recommended dressing in layers, including a wind-resistant outer layer, and wearing a hat to retain body heat.
During this extreme cold period, electric utility Hydro-Québec anticipates near-record levels of electricity consumption on Tuesday and Wednesday. The utility’s all-time peak occurred on February 3, 2023, when temperatures hit –26°C, and Quebecers used 43,124 megawatts of power, according to media reports.