Late Winter Snowstorm Hits Quebec and Atlantic Canada After Spring Begins

Just days after the official start of spring, parts of eastern Canada are bracing for a significant return to winter conditions. A slow-moving weather system is expected to bring heavy snowfall, strong winds and reduced visibility across Quebec, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, highlighting the unpredictable nature of early spring weather in Canada.

Snowfall Expected Across Southern Quebec

Montreal Area and Surrounding Regions to See Accumulation

In southern Quebec, including the Greater Montreal Area, Montérégie, Drummondville and Estrie, snowfall began Sunday with total accumulations approaching 10 centimetres.

According to Environment Canada, snowfall rates could reach up to two centimetres per hour at times, potentially creating slick and hazardous road conditions. The late-season snow comes as many residents had begun transitioning to milder spring weather.

Nova Scotia Braces for Heavy, Wet Snow

Halifax and Southwestern Regions in Storm’s Path

In Nova Scotia, a broader swath of the province is expected to receive between 10 and 15 centimetres of snow starting late Sunday afternoon. The system is forecast to move from the southwestern shore near Digby toward Halifax County, reaching the Halifax Regional Municipality by Sunday evening.

The heaviest snowfall is anticipated overnight Sunday into early Monday, with the possibility of intensification during that period. Northern parts of the province may see snow arrive early Monday morning, extending into Cape Breton by mid-morning and continuing through Tuesday.

Environment Canada warns that temperatures hovering around the freezing mark will result in wet, heavy snow — a factor that can increase the risk of power outages and make travel more difficult.

Risk of Ice Pellets Along Atlantic Coast

Forecasters also note that some coastal areas may experience a mix of snow and ice pellets Monday evening. However, the exact locations of this transition remain uncertain.

Newfoundland Faces Stronger Storm Conditions

Significant Snowfall and High Winds Forecast

The most severe conditions are expected in Newfoundland, where winter storm watches have been issued across much of the island. Central and southern regions are under yellow alerts, while eastern areas face higher-level warnings.

Most of Newfoundland could see between 20 and 30 centimetres of snow beginning Monday night and continuing into Tuesday. Northerly wind gusts are expected to reach between 80 and 100 km/h, significantly reducing visibility and creating dangerous travel conditions.

Eastern Newfoundland may experience even heavier snowfall totals ranging from 30 to 50 centimetres. Winds in the region could strengthen further Tuesday night, compounding the impact of the storm.

Changing Conditions Could Bring Ice and Rain

As temperatures fluctuate, the system is expected to transition from snow to ice pellets, freezing rain and eventually rain on Tuesday. This shift could lead to icy surfaces and further travel disruptions.

A second period of poor visibility is also possible Tuesday night as temperatures drop again, causing blowing snow in already affected areas.

Travel and Safety Concerns Across the Region

Authorities are urging residents across affected regions to exercise caution, particularly on highways and rural roads where visibility may be reduced to near zero at times. Wet snow, strong winds and rapidly changing conditions are expected to make travel hazardous.

A Reminder of Canada’s Unpredictable Spring Weather

While the calendar has turned to spring, this storm serves as a reminder that winter conditions can persist well into March — especially in eastern Canada. Residents are encouraged to monitor forecasts and prepare for rapidly changing weather as the system moves through the region.