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Significant snow accumulations expected for several regions of Quebec

While 10 to 15 centimeters of snow are expected in Montreal and the south of the province, Duty gives you some tips for taking the road safely.

Snow will be in store for the holidays this year, just in time for Christmas Eve. But caution must be exercised for those who take the wheel. Environment Canada has issued a winter road conditions advisory from Monday afternoon to Tuesday morning.

An accumulation of 10 to 15 centimeters of snow could disrupt travel in southern Quebec, particularly in the Montreal region, Montérégie, Lanaudière, the Laurentians, Outaouais, Mauricie, Centre-du-Québec and the 'Estrie.

Snow precipitation should begin this Monday around 2:30 p.m. in the Gatineau area and continue until around 5 a.m. Tuesday morning. In Montreal, snow should start to fall around 4:30 p.m. In the Quebec and Sherbrooke region, 5 to 10 cm of snow should fall from 8:30 p.m. until Tuesday morning.

“It’s going to be nice, light, powdery snow, with not too much wind. Snow therefore with relatively limited consequences, given that the majority of accumulations in urban areas will occur during the night. The next morning, it will all be over,” says Michèle Fleury, meteorologist at Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Be extra vigilant

“Roads may become slippery and visibility will be reduced. But we are still relatively lucky because there is no ice or there is not much wind either,” explains M.me Fleury, who recommends moving forward or delaying your travels, if possible.

To drive safely, Environment Canada advises you to adapt your driving to road conditions which can change quickly, and to be extra careful, as a motorist, but also as a pedestrian.

CAA-Quebec advises you to respect a golden rule: adapt your speed as soon as weather conditions deteriorate.

“Following this instruction allows your tires to better grip the road. Likewise, you must operate the steering wheel gently to maintain control of the vehicle,” explains CAA-Quebec in its winter driving advice.

$60 and two demerit points

According to the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ), weather conditions represent 13.2% of accidents resulting in bodily injury in 2023.

On the SAAQ website, it is reminded that the driver must reduce his speed when visibility is reduced due to darkness, fog, rain or precipitation, or when the roadway is slippery or difficult. is not entirely clear, in accordance with the Highway Safety Code.

Please note that driving deemed dangerous can result in a fine of $60 and the loss of two demerit points.

Driving in a “mobile igloo” is a no-no!

To get ready to hit the road, equip yourself with a snow brush, a scraper, a can of windshield washer fluid and a shovel. Before hitting the road, completely remove ice and snow from your vehicle.

It is important to always turn on your parking and low beam lights as soon as the weather becomes darker.

Please note that it is prohibited to drive a vehicle covered in snow, which could present a danger to road users. Riding in a “mobile igloo” could cost you $60 to $100, plus fees.

With The Canadian Press

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