Major Ice Storm Warning in Southern Quebec Forces School Closures and Travel Alerts

Environment Canada has issued a strong warning about a major ice storm in southern Quebec, urging residents to prepare for possible disruptions. The weather agency says large amounts of freezing rain are expected to hit the region on Wednesday, which could make travel dangerous and cause power outages.

According to the forecast, southern Quebec could receive between 20 and 30 millimetres of freezing rain. Freezing rain occurs when rain falls through cold air and freezes on contact with surfaces like roads, trees, and power lines. This creates a thick layer of ice that can make roads slippery and damage trees and electrical infrastructure. Officials say this level of freezing rain could cause serious problems across the region.

Because of the expected southern Quebec ice storm, several school boards have already announced closures to protect students and staff. The Centre de services scolaire de Montréal (CSSDM), which manages many schools in Montreal, said all schools, daycare centres, and administrative offices will remain closed on Wednesday. Adult education classes will also not take place.

The English Montreal School Board also confirmed that it will close all its schools and facilities for the day. In a message shared on social media, the board said the decision was made “out of an abundance of caution.” This closure includes schools, daycares, adult education programs, vocational centres, and the administration building. Even virtual classes have been cancelled to avoid complications caused by possible power cuts.

Other school service centres across the region have taken similar steps. The Centre de services scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys announced that its schools will be closed as well, including remote learning programs. Officials from the centre urged people to stay safe and travel only if necessary.

On Montreal’s North Shore, the Sir Wilfrid Laurier School Board also informed parents and students that schools and daycare services would remain closed. The Centre de services scolaire des Mille-Îles, located north of Montreal, confirmed that it will also shut down schools due to the storm risk.

The closures are not limited to the Montreal area. In the Chaudière-Appalaches region near Quebec City, the Centre de services scolaire des Navigateurs said it will close all schools and daycare services for the day. Officials explained that the early announcement was made to give parents enough time to arrange alternative plans for their children.

Schools in Quebec City will also be affected. The Centre de services scolaire de la Capitale confirmed that its schools will remain closed due to the forecasted weather conditions. Similarly, the Centre de services scolaire de Laval announced that all schools and centres will shut down. Daytime and evening classes, including online courses, have been cancelled. School transportation services and daycare programs will also not operate.

Universities are also responding to the southern Quebec ice storm warning. Both Concordia University and McGill University announced that all in-person classes scheduled for Wednesday have been cancelled. Several CEGEP colleges across the region have also decided to close their campuses for the day to ensure safety.

The expected weather conditions could also affect outdoor activities. Ski resorts across southern Quebec have started announcing temporary closures. Popular locations such as Mont-Tremblant, Bromont, Sutton, Orford, Owl’s Head, and Les Sommets are expected to shut down operations during the storm. Resort officials advised visitors to check updates before planning a trip.

Environment Canada has issued an “orange alert” for much of southern Quebec. This alert means that severe weather could cause significant disruptions to daily life. Residents have been advised to stay indoors if possible and avoid unnecessary travel. Ice buildup can cause tree branches to break and power lines to collapse, which may lead to electricity outages in some areas.

The agency also noted that areas farther north in Quebec will experience different weather conditions. Regions such as Charlevoix, Saguenay, and Rimouski could receive 20 to 30 centimetres of snow instead of freezing rain.

Officials are encouraging people to stay informed by checking weather updates regularly. Residents should also follow announcements from their school boards and local authorities for the latest information about closures and safety measures.

With memories of the severe ice storm in 2023 still fresh, many people in Quebec are taking this warning seriously. Authorities hope that early preparation and school closures will help reduce risks and keep residents safe during the southern Quebec ice storm.