Snowfall, smog warnings issued as Montreal forecasted for up to 20 cm

As we head towards the weekend, so too does a double-dose of weather alerts. Environment Canada has issued simultaneous snowfall and smog warnings for Montreal, forecasting up to 20 cm of powder.

The weather agency says “significant snowfall” is expected on Saturday and total downfall amounts can reach up to 20 cm by Sunday morning.

“Rapidly accumulating snow will make travel difficult,” states the alert. “Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow.

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At 6 am on Friday morning, two hours after the snowfall warning was issued, Environment Canada said “high concentrations of fine particulates are expected and will result in poor air quality,” resulting in the smog warning.

“Smog especially affects asthmatic children and people with respiratory ailments or heart disease,” continued the weather agency. “It is therefore recommended that these individuals avoid intense physical activity outdoors until the smog warning is lifted.”

Using public transit, reducing driving speed, not idling engines unnecessarily is the best way to reduce smog emissions.

The high concentrations of pollutants are expected to diminish by late Friday morning.

Environment Canada

Both Environment Canada alerts are in effect for the following areas:

• Châteauguay – La Prairie area
• Laval area
• Longueuil – Varennes area
• Montréal Island area

Bundle up, Montreal.