Muhammad Amanullah | July 15, 2026
MONTREAL, Quebec — Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for the Greater Montreal region, warning residents of potentially dangerous weather conditions that could bring damaging wind gusts of up to 110 km/h, large hail, torrential rainfall, and localized flooding.
At the same time, a Tornado Watch has been issued for parts of the Eastern Townships, where atmospheric conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms.
Meteorologists say the strongest storms are expected to develop during Tuesday afternoon and evening, urging residents to remain alert and monitor official weather updates.
Powerful Storms Expected Across Southern Quebec
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, the approaching storm system has the potential to produce severe weather across much of southern Quebec.
Forecasters warn that thunderstorms may generate:
- Wind gusts reaching 100 to 110 km/h
- Large hail capable of damaging vehicles and property
- Intense rainfall in a short period
- Frequent lightning
- Localized flash flooding in low-lying areas
The combination of strong winds and saturated ground could also increase the likelihood of fallen trees and power outages.
Trees and Power Lines Could Be Damaged
Environment Canada meteorologist Kate Leclerc warned that powerful wind gusts may knock down trees, branches, and power lines, potentially leaving thousands of Hydro-Québec customers without electricity.
She explained that although the storm cells are expected to move quickly, they could still produce significant rainfall over short periods, increasing the risk of localized flooding.
Earlier Tuesday morning, storms moving through the Eastern Townships already caused reports of minor flooding in several communities, highlighting the strength of the weather system.
Hydro-Québec Urges Residents to Prepare
With severe weather approaching, Hydro-Québec is advising residents to prepare for possible power outages.
Company spokesperson Jonathan Petit encouraged households to assemble an emergency preparedness kit containing:
- Drinking water
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries
- Blankets
- Essential medications
- Mobile phone charging devices
Residents are also advised to use surge protectors when electricity is restored to help prevent damage to electronic devices caused by voltage fluctuations.
Never Use Outdoor Equipment Indoors
Officials also reminded residents that equipment designed for outdoor use—including barbecues, camping stoves, propane heaters, and gasoline-powered generators—should never be operated inside homes, garages, or enclosed spaces during power outages.
These devices produce carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas that can quickly accumulate indoors and pose a serious risk of poisoning.
Authorities stress that proper ventilation is essential whenever generators or fuel-burning equipment are used.
Safety Advice During Thunderstorms
Meteorologists are urging people to take severe weather warnings seriously.
Residents should immediately seek shelter inside a sturdy building if thunder is heard or lightning is visible.
People are advised to avoid:
- Lakes and rivers
- Open fields
- Golf courses
- Parks
- Metal structures
- Tall isolated trees
Driving during intense thunderstorms should also be avoided whenever possible because heavy rain can rapidly reduce visibility and cause flash flooding on roads.
Weather Alerts Cover Much of Quebec
Kate Leclerc said much of Quebec is currently under various thunderstorm advisories.
While the Greater Montreal area remains under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, portions of Quebec City and Trois-Rivières are under Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, indicating that dangerous storms are either occurring or expected imminently.
Weather officials continue to monitor conditions closely and may upgrade or expand alerts if storms intensify during the day.
Forecast for the Coming Days
Tuesday will feature a mix of sunshine and clouds, with morning wind gusts reaching 50 km/h.
During the afternoon, temperatures are expected to climb to 33°C, while humid conditions could make it feel as hot as 42°C. The UV index is also forecast to remain very high.
A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected before severe storms develop during the evening. Storm activity and rainfall are forecast to diminish around midnight, with overnight temperatures falling to approximately 20°C.
On Wednesday, conditions are expected to improve significantly, bringing sunny skies and a high of 29°C, with humidex values near 33°C. Overnight temperatures will drop to 19°C under mostly clear skies.
By Thursday, humidity will return with a mix of sun and cloud and a 60 percent chance of showers. Daytime temperatures are expected to reach 26°C, with clearing skies overnight and a low of 16°C.
Friday is forecast to be mostly sunny, with a daytime high of 26°C and an overnight low of 19°C, providing a welcome break after several days of unsettled weather.
