Environment Canada issues a rainfall and smog warning for Montreal

Along with the freezing rain warning that was issued earlier, Environment Canada has issued a double-dose of cautions with a coinciding rainfall and smog warning for Montreal.

The rainfall warning states that heavy rain is expected and that a downpour between 25 and 35 millimetres is possible.

Some areas north of the St. Lawrence River could see anywhere from 50 to 80 millimetres of rain.

“A major low pressure system over the Southern United States will track northward tonight as it intensifies,” says the agency. “Precipitation beginning overnight tonight will fall as freezing rain over the southwestern part of the province and will gradually change over to rain, at times heavy, Friday morning.”

Over Central Quebec, the changeover from freezing rain to rain will occur near midday, while over Eastern Quebec, freezing precipitation will begin Friday morning and turn to rain late in the afternoon.

Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is also possible.

The warning was posted at 3:51 pm on Thursday afternoon and is effect for the following area:

Châteauguay – La Prairie area
Laval
Longueuil – Varennes area
Montreal Island area

High concentrations of fine particulates are also expected for the above-mentioned areas and could result in poor air quality, as per a warning that was posted at 3:45 pm.

Air quality is slated to improve this evening with the onset of precipitation and stronger winds.

Environment Canada warns that smog especially affects asthmatic children and people with respiratory ailments or heart disease. They recommended that these individuals avoid intense physical activity outdoors until the smog warning is lifted.

In Quebec, wood heating is the main source of fine particles that contribute to smog during winter. Montreal residents are asked to stop using wood-burning stoves or fireplaces until the smog warning has been lifted.

Environment Canada urges citizens to monitor weather alerts and updates and to be safe and diligent when travelling outside.

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