People in Montreal are advised to be very careful as there is a freezing rain warning in force in the city and its surroundings. Environment Canada has advised that freezing rain is probable to begin early Tuesday, which may lead to slippery pavements for both pedestrians and vehicle users.
Weather Details
The weather agency said the freezing rain will be from the early morning until mid-morning before the precipitation turns into light rain as the temperatures rise. This is a type of weather in which rain falls through a shallow layer of freezing air near the ground and then freezes in contact with roads, pavements, and others.
Safety Precautions
The disturbing thing about freezing rain is that it goes through hardening on contacting the ground making streets as well as pathways very slippery.
- Drivers: Slow down and stay away from the other vehicles as much as possible. Check the road conditions and the condition of your car and also avoid sudden stop, or turning when in an area with winter tires on.
- Pedestrians: Wear shoes that will not slip to and from your car or at work to reduce accidents. Walk on roads that are salted or covered with sand wherever you can avoid ice.
- Public Transit Users: Expect operational disruptions of buses and trains as a result of tough road conditions caused by ice formation. A point to note is that you should have more time on your hands to get to work and also get stuck in traffic.
Impact on Daily Activities
City authorities are up and running, and they want to assure people that snow plows will be out all night salting and sanding the streets. However, the untreated surfaces can still be slippery during the busiest hours of the morning. Schools and businesses may also be affected and closed or may operate late, therefore, many are advised to check the updates.
Emergency Measures
People are advised to expect a possibility of power shedding due to ice on power lines and tree branches. Always have some flashlights, batteries for them, and other foods that do not spoil within the house at all times.
Looking Ahead
This freezing rain is one of the effects of a weather system that has affected Quebec. It is hoped that the weather will be somewhat better in the afternoon, but similar warnings have been given for other areas, such as Laval and the South Shore. They should listen to Coast Station and keep tabs on Environment Canada for more information.
Conclusion
This particular kind of precipitation poses a real threat to the ordinary morning drive. Montreal can reduce the risks associated with this ice happening by just being aware of the situation and acting correspondingly. Drive carefully, and for anything else, make sure to know the road and weather conditions before you get on the road.
