Hey Montréal, we’ve got some unpredictable weather heading your way this weekend, so grab your coats, boots, and umbrellas! If you’ve been enjoying the mild spring temperatures, get ready for a sharp change starting Saturday night. Snow will begin falling late Saturday, and by Sunday, things will transition into rain, making for a messy and slushy weekend ahead. Here’s everything you need to know to get through it.
What’s Happening? Snow Tonight, Rain by Sunday
First, let’s talk snow. Starting Saturday night, snow will make its return to Montréal, and by Sunday morning, you could wake up to a few centimeters of snow covering the city. It might look pretty at first, but don’t let it fool you—this snow won’t last long.
By Sunday afternoon, the temperatures will rise, and that fresh layer of snow will quickly turn to rain, which will stick around through Sunday and Monday. The snow won’t just go away on its own either, so expect some wet, slushy streets for the first half of the weekend.
Why Should You Care? Snow to Rain = Slippery Streets and Travel Troubles
While snow is nothing new to Montréal, the snow-to-rain transition can make things tricky, and here’s why:
1. Slippery Streets and Sidewalks
The snow will come down Saturday night, and once the rain starts, it’s going to turn into slush—wet, slippery, and messy. Whether you’re walking or driving, the roads and sidewalks will be slick. Keep an eye out for ice and slush, especially in the morning when everything will be wet and slippery. If you’re heading out for errands or walking around the city, move cautiously—the streets are going to be a bit treacherous.
2. Reduced Visibility
The combination of snow and rain will make visibility a challenge, especially when you’re on the road. If you’re driving, be sure your wipers are working, slow down, and give yourself extra time to get where you’re going. Snow might fall heavily at times, and the rain could fog up your windshield, making it harder to see. If you’re walking, keep your head up and stay aware of traffic and pedestrians—you’ll need to stay extra alert with conditions changing so rapidly.
3. Travel Delays
With snow turning into rain, the roads and transit are going to get messy. Expect some travel delays—whether you’re driving or taking the bus. If you can, try to stay in and avoid unnecessary trips. If you do need to get somewhere, leave a little earlier to account for traffic, and keep in mind that public transportation might experience delays as well. It’s going to be a slow go for a while, so patience will be key.
How to Stay Safe and Comfortable
So, what can you do to stay warm, dry, and safe this weekend? Here’s your survival guide:
1. Layer Up
With temperatures bouncing back and forth from cold to mild, layering is your best friend. Start with a moisture-wicking layer to keep sweat away, add a warm middle layer, and finish off with a waterproof outer jacket to protect you from the rain. As the wet slush hits the streets, make sure to wear waterproof boots—you don’t want soggy feet. And definitely bring an umbrella or a rain jacket for Sunday and Monday, as the rain will keep coming.
2. Drive with Caution
If you absolutely need to get in the car, make sure it’s ready for the conditions. Check your tires, make sure your windshield wipers are working, and be extra careful on bridges and overpasses where ice could form more quickly. Slow down and give yourself space between cars—icy patches and slush could sneak up on you, especially as the rain starts. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to wintery, slushy roads.
3. Watch for Ice
Even after the snow turns to rain, icy spots will still be lurking. If you’re walking around, keep your eyes peeled for hidden ice patches that might be covered by slush. And in the morning, temperatures could dip low enough that icy roads or sidewalks persist for a while. Take it easy, especially on less-traveled streets or bridges—those areas tend to freeze first.
When Will This End?
The good news is that by Tuesday, the weather should clear up, and we can expect more typical spring temperatures. But before we get there, we’ll have to power through a slushy Sunday and Monday. Expect wet streets and possibly some traffic jams for your Monday morning commute. But once the weather settles down, you can look forward to warmer, drier days.
Be Ready for Snow, Slush, and Rain
Montréal, this weekend is a bit of a rollercoaster. You’ll be dealing with snow on Saturday night, transitioning to rain on Sunday, and a slushy, wet mess for most of the weekend. But don’t worry, as long as you dress in layers, stay cautious on the roads, and prepare for rain, you’ll be good to go.
