Quebec Braces for a Bone-Chilling Polar Vortex This Weekend
Quebec is bracing for a severe polar vortex this weekend, with predictions for the coldest weather of the season. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued a yellow warning for most areas in the province and an orange warning for parts of Ontario, indicating a high impact.
Cold Weather Forecast
The ECCC has warned that wind chill values could plunge to between -35°C to -38°C in Southern Quebec. With the temperature expected to reach a high of -20°C, it is essential for residents to dress appropriately in layers, including wind-resistant outerwear. The agency emphasizes that extreme cold poses serious health risks, including frostbite and hypothermia.
Expected Conditions
- Wind chill values: -35°C to -38°C.
- Maximum temperature: -20°C.
In northern regions, such as Abitibi and Lac-Saint-Jean, temperatures may fall even lower, potentially reaching below -35°C.
Hydro-Québec and Power Demand
Hydro-Québec is preparing for high electricity demand as residents heat their homes. The corporation reported a production capacity exceeding 37,000 megawatts, nearing an annual peak of 40,000 megawatts. Despite the demand, Hydro-Québec had previously managed to meet even higher consumption levels of approximately 43,000 megawatts in earlier months.
Power Outages in Montreal
On Saturday evening, approximately 20,000 customers in Montreal were without power, particularly affecting neighborhoods like Notre-Dame-de-Grâce and Côte Saint-Luc. The outages were caused by equipment failure and other unknown factors. Residents were advised to keep their water taps running to prevent pipes from freezing and to seek warming locations if their homes became too cold.
Warming Stations and Precautions
- More than 3,000 warming spaces have been made available in Montreal.
- Temporary spots in warming shelters have increased by 534.
Montreal Public Health has issued guidelines for staying safe in extreme temperatures. Key recommendations include drinking hot beverages, avoiding wet clothing, and keeping a trusted contact informed of your whereabouts.
Community Response to Extreme Cold
Despite the frigid weather, events like Igloofest are still taking place in Montreal. Organizers have made preparations to ensure attendees stay safe. In contrast, several local attractions such as the Granby Zoo and ski resorts in the Eastern Townships have canceled activities due to safety concerns.
As Quebec braces for this polar vortex, community safety and preparedness remain a priority. Residents are urged to take precautions to safeguard against the risks posed by the extreme cold.
