Freezing rain, record-high temperatures ahead this week across Quebec

Many across Quebec could see some slippery sidewalks ahead of warming temperatures.

Environment Canada issued a weather alert Friday indicating freezing rain for eastern and western regions including the island of Montreal, in addition to the smog warning that remains in effect.

The statement comes as a major rain system is working its way North from the United States. Higher-level freezing rain warnings have also been issued for parts of the province in areas like Val d’or, Malartic and Lac Mistissini. Though Montreal isn’t likely to see much precipitation until Saturday into Sunday.

(Source: Environment Canada)Montrealers can also expect above-seasonal temperatures for the remaining days of December. Saturday will bring a 40 per cent chance of sleet in the afternoon and an expected daytime high of 1 C. Roughly 15 millimetres of rain on Sunday will come with a steady daytime high and overnight low of 4 C.

The last two days of December will bring even more warmth, including a potential record-breaking high on Monday of 9 C. The current record high for Dec. 31 stands at 6.1 C and was set in 1965.

Added rain Monday is expected to let up in time for New Year’s Eve. Cloudy skies on Tuesday will come with another mild daytime high of 4 C and overnight lows are expected to remain above freezing from Sunday to Tuesday as well.

A mix of snow and rain is expected to start 2025 with a daytime high of 4 C once again. The mercury is then expected to move down.