Blowing snow advisory

Montreal Buried: Blowing Snow Advisory Grips Quebec After Massive Storms

Hey California! While you might be enjoying (relatively) mild weather, things are a bit different up north in Quebec. Montreal is currently under a blowing snow advisory after being hit by two massive snowstorms in quick succession. This isn't just a little dusting; we're talking about serious snowfall and hazardous conditions. Let's break down what's happening, why it matters, and what it means for residents.

Recent Updates: Montreal Digs Out From Under 70cm of Snow

Montreal has been hammered by back-to-back snowstorms, leaving over 70 centimeters (that's almost 28 inches!) of snow blanketing the city. As of Monday, Environment Canada issued a blowing snow advisory, warning that winds gusting up to 70 km/h (around 43 mph) will create near-zero visibility due to blowing snow and snow drifts. This makes travel incredibly dangerous.

According to Globalnews.ca, Environment Canada specifically warned about the reduced visibility, emphasizing the potential for hazardous driving conditions.

CTV News reports that the sheer volume of snow has overwhelmed city services. Montreal is facing significant delays in snow removal, with officials estimating it will take crews eight days to fully clear the streets. This has led to the suspension of collection pickups for the week, adding to the disruption for residents.

The Deep Freeze: Understanding the Blowing Snow Advisory

So, what exactly is a blowing snow advisory? It's issued when strong winds pick up freshly fallen snow (or snow on the ground) and blow it around, significantly reducing visibility. Imagine driving in a whiteout – that's the kind of situation these advisories warn against.

A "winter weather advisory," as noted by the National Weather Service, indicates that wintry conditions are expected, but not severe enough to warrant a full-blown winter storm warning. However, even an advisory means taking precautions. As the NWS states, people should "be prepared for winter driving conditions and possible travel difficulties."

The key difference between an advisory and a warning often comes down to the severity of the conditions. While a winter weather advisory might suggest "patchy blowing snow," a winter storm warning typically implies more intense snowfall, stronger winds, and significantly greater risks.

Montreal's Winter Woes: A City Built for Snow, But Still Challenged

Montreal is no stranger to snow. The city is well-equipped to handle winter weather, with a comprehensive snow removal system. However, even the best systems can be overwhelmed by exceptionally heavy snowfall.

The city's snow removal efforts typically involve plowing streets, collecting snow, and transporting it to designated snow disposal sites. These sites are often located in quarries or other large open areas outside the city center. The sheer scale of this operation is impressive, requiring a large fleet of trucks and heavy machinery.

However, back-to-back storms, like the ones Montreal is currently experiencing, can create a logistical nightmare. The city simply can't keep up with the rate of snowfall, leading to accumulation on streets, sidewalks, and parking spaces. This, combined with strong winds, creates the perfect conditions for blowing snow and reduced visibility.

Immediate Effects: Travel Chaos and Service Disruptions

The immediate effects of the blowing snow advisory are already being felt across Montreal.

• Travel Disruptions: Near-zero visibility makes driving extremely dangerous. Commuters are facing significant delays, and some roads may be closed. Public transportation is also likely to be affected. If you're in Montreal, it's best to avoid unnecessary travel.

• Service Delays: As mentioned earlier, collection pickups have been suspended due to the snow. Other city services may also be affected.

• Increased Risk of Accidents: Reduced visibility and slippery roads increase the risk of accidents. Pedestrians and drivers alike need to be extra cautious.

• Economic Impact: Businesses may experience disruptions due to employees being unable to get to work and customers staying home.

Looking Ahead: How Long Will This Last?

It's difficult to say exactly how long the blowing snow advisory will remain in effect. It depends on several factors, including:

• Wind Speed: The advisory will likely remain in place as long as winds remain strong enough to cause blowing snow.

• Snowfall: Additional snowfall will exacerbate the problem, providing more material for the wind to blow around.

• Temperature: Warmer temperatures could help to melt some of the snow, reducing the amount available for blowing.

Residents of Montreal should stay tuned to local weather forecasts and heed the advice of emergency officials. It's important to:

• Avoid unnecessary travel.
• If you must travel, drive slowly and cautiously.
• Ensure your vehicle is properly equipped for winter driving.
• Dress warmly in layers.
• Be aware of your surroundings.

Lessons from the North: What Can California Learn?

While California rarely experiences the kind of intense winter weather seen in Montreal, there are still lessons to be learned. Even relatively mild winter conditions can pose risks.

• Be Prepared: Make sure you have a winter emergency kit in your car, including things like a flashlight, blanket, first-aid kit, and extra food and water.

• Stay Informed: Pay attention to weather forecasts and advisories.

• Drive Safely: Reduce your speed in wet or icy conditions.

• Be Aware of Local Conditions: Even within California, weather conditions can vary dramatically depending on location. Be aware of the specific risks in your area. While the Bay Area might be dealing with rain and wind, higher elevations could see snow. As SFGATE reported, some parts of the Bay Area even experienced snowfall recently.

The situation in Montreal serves as a reminder that winter weather can be unpredictable and dangerous. By taking precautions and staying informed, we can all stay safe, no matter where we live. While Californians might not face the same challenges as Montrealers, preparedness and awareness are key to navigating any type of weather-related hazard. And hey, maybe appreciate that sunshine a little extra today!