Transport ministry warns of winter storm

In the face of a forecast of heavy snowfall and strong winds across much of the province, the Ministry of Transport (MTQ) is encouraging the population to avoid non-essential travel on Monday.

Weather warnings issued Sunday by Environment Canada largely excluded the Eastern Townships, where the forecast included the possibility of rain in place of the larger dump of snow, but warned much of the Saint-lawrence Valley to prepare for snowfall amounts of 15 to 25 cm alongside strong winds that could limit visibility starting Monday morning and continuing through the day.

“Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become difficult to navigate due to accumulating snow,” the alert read. “Rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult over some locations.”

In their notice, the MTQ shared that plow teams will be out as soon as the storm begins in order to improve conditions as much as possible, but they cautioned those who do travel to expect disruptions on several of the province’s major roadways.

“Road users must take great caution and adapt their driving to variable road conditions,” the notice states.

Anyone leaving home is encouraged to check road conditions in advance using Quebec 511, either online or by phone, and to check the condition and preparedness of their vehicle, including clearing all snow from the windows, roof, headlights, hood, and license plate. While on the roads, drivers are reminded to slow down, keep a greater distance from other vehicles, and try to ensure as much visibility as possible.