Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is warning Montreal-area residents to remain alert tonight as conditions become favourable for the repeated formation of showers and thunderstorms capable of producing heavy rainfall, localized flooding and reduced visibility.
Forecasters say a few showers and thunderstorms are expected through the evening before gradually ending near midnight. However, the combination of recent rainfall and additional storms has heightened concerns about flooding across the region.
“The ground has a reduced ability to absorb rain, especially in areas affected by heavy rain yesterday,” Environment Canada said in its latest advisory.
The weather agency has issued a severe thunderstorm watch, noting that conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing damaging rain, hail or strong winds. While not every community will experience severe weather, repeated rounds of thunderstorms could bring significant rainfall to some areas.
Officials warn that heavy rain can quickly lead to flash flooding in low-lying areas, underpasses and locations with poor drainage. Drivers are also being advised to prepare for sudden reductions in visibility during downpours.
The overnight low is expected to reach 15 C, with skies becoming partly cloudy after midnight and a lingering 40 per cent chance of showers.
Despite tonight’s unsettled conditions, the forecast points to improving weather for much of the week ahead.
Monday is expected to begin mainly sunny before clouds increase early in the afternoon. There is a 30 per cent chance of showers late in the day, with temperatures reaching 23 C and a humidex value of 27. The UV index is forecast to reach 8, considered very high. Monday night will remain mainly cloudy with a 40 per cent chance of showers and a low of 15 C.
A return to summer-like conditions is expected Tuesday, with sunny skies and a high of 25 C followed by a clear night and a low of 16 C.
The warm pattern is forecast to continue Wednesday with sunshine and a high of 25 C. Cloudy periods are expected overnight with temperatures dipping to 17 C.
Thursday will bring a mix of sun and cloud and another high of 25 C before showers move into the region overnight. More widespread showers are forecast Friday, when temperatures are expected to cool slightly to a high of 21 C. Rainy conditions could continue into Friday night with a low of 15 C.
Environment Canada is encouraging residents to continue monitoring forecasts and weather alerts as conditions evolve through the evening. While a stretch of warmer weather is expected to follow, officials say tonight’s combination of thunderstorms and saturated ground means localized flooding remains the primary concern across the Montreal region.
