Published on April 29, 2025 at 11:27 p.m.
The heat would finally be on the way to Quebec. Forecast.
Hesitant spring
During our spring overview published several weeks ago, meteorologists from Météoblédia anticipated a season that could be described as changing. This said a lot about moods and alternations between cold and hot. Research reversals, Quebec has experienced some: much more than average in March and April. However, May may be less changing.
“Spring has inflated expectations for May,” says Réjean Ouimet, meteorologist. The month begins on a shocking note like the last weeks. In fact, since the equinox, spring is the champion of relapses and returns back. »»
The 20 ° C
The 20 ° C threshold is important in May. It marks the transition to summer heat. The achievement of these maximums in a sustainable way requires a atmospheric context favorable to the formation of a crest in order to allow the soft air to go back to Quebec. For several weeks, it is rather the opposite that has occurred: a hollow that facilitates cold descents.
“The hollow that returns repeatedly is heavily favored by a crest on Greenland,” explains Réjean Ouimet. We will have to endure it for a while. Thin consolation there may be hatching of sweetness. And at this time of the year, a heat thrust means for southern Quebec 20 ° C days. However, the lasting aspect remains questionable. The usual number of days of 20 ° C and more in May may be difficult to reach. »»
Situation turnaround
The constant maximums of 20 ° C and more settle around May 20 in southern Quebec. It is a heat guarantee, but certain elements must be set up to achieve it. For a winning formula, two possibilities are available to us with regard to the atmospheric context. On the one hand, zonal circulation, which means a more stable flow of air which promotes a supply of soft air from the west; On the other hand, the strong winds at altitude which forms a crest which allows the rise in hot air from the south. In any case, the sun plays a leading role for heat in May.
“The main actor of the summer will be more dominant in May,” says Réjean Ouimet. The removal of the hollow and a more zonal atmospheric circulation will allow the heat to bring itself from the West to complete the month of May. The time of the turn remains a stake of the next few weeks. »»
