Winter storm could dump up to 40 cm of snow on Montreal

Here's what to expect as a major winter storm heads to the Montreal area beginning Wednesday night.

A winter storm is brewing and could bring a significant amount of snowfall to Montreal beginning Wednesday evening.

On Tuesday, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued a winter storm warning for several parts of the province, including southern Quebec.

Some schools in the Montreal area have announced closures for Thursday.

READ MORE: School closures announced in Montreal ahead of major winter snowstorm

The Greater Montreal Area could see between 25 and 40 centimetres of snow.

Strong winds could accompany the storm, according to ECCC. The weather agency says the storm warning is in effect from Wednesday night to late in the day Thursday.

“Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations. Visibility will be suddenly reduced to near zero at times in heavy snow and blowing snow. Poor weather conditions may contribute to transportation delays. There may be a significant impact on rush hour traffic in urban areas,” Environment Canada says.

Snow removal crews are ready, city says

Authorities are urging caution on the roads and warning of possible power outages as the storm passed through the region.

The City of Montreal is prepared to clear the snow from the roads but says commuters can expect some delays for the morning commute.

City spokesperson Philippe Sabourin told reporters that the current snow removal operation going on now is about 95 per cent finished and a day ahead of schedule, so crews are ready to begin clearing fresh snow over the next 24 hours on streets and sidewalks.

Around 10 kilometres of roads will have to be cleared so Sabourin is recommending residents stay off of them if they can, to work from home, and to postpone non-urgent appointments.

“If you have to come to work tomorrow, take the public transit before leaving your car on the curb of the street this evening. We need you provide us enough room in order to ease the move of our [snow removal] trucks. Park your car 30 centimetres away from the sidewalks. This way you’re helping the city to do a much better job,” he said.

The forecast for Wednesday evening is -15 C with a wind chill making it feel more like -26.

By the morning, heavy, blowing snow is expected to blanket Montreal with a wind chill of -17. The high will be -1C.

Friday will bring sunny skies with a high of -6 C before another dose of snow is expected again on Saturday and Sunday.