Published on January 28, 2026 at 10:00 p.m.
The Cold’s Grip: Why Quebec is Dodging the Biggest Winter Storms
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A stubborn arctic air mass is acting as a shield, diverting major storms away from Quebec while delivering frequent, smaller snowfalls.
- The persistent cold is steering large storm systems south, impacting the American East Coast and the Maritimes.
- Quebec is expected to see near-normal snowfall totals this February.
- Alberta Clippers will continue to bring frequent, tho smaller, snow events.
Quebecers can breathe a little easier knowing the biggest, most disruptive winter storms are largely bypassing the province.A deeply entrenched arctic air mass is acting like an invisible force field, pushing major weather systems south and protecting the region from the worst of the winter’s fury.
How the Cold Blocks the Storms
The reason is simple: that frigid air descends further south than usual, effectively altering the path of the jet stream – the atmospheric river that guides storms across North America. Powerful low-pressure systems forming over Colorado and Texas, brimming with moisture, are being forced to curve eastward, targeting the American East Coast and the Maritimes rather of Quebec.
A prime example is a system anticipated to arrive at the beginning of February. It will develop in the southern united States and track up the coast, barely brushing eastern Quebec, while delivering significant snowfall to areas further south, which have already been impacted by recent storms.
frequent,Smaller Snowfalls on the Horizon
While quebec may avoid the blockbuster storms,don’t expect clear skies and a break from shoveling. The province is likely to experience regular visits from Alberta Clippers – fast-moving, relatively small systems originating east of the Rockies. They traverse a cold, continental landscape. Expect frequent, but modest, accumulations of snow.
What Does This Mean for February Snowfall?
February is shaping up to deliver snowfall totals near seasonal averages in Montreal. “Given the continued cold weather pattern, we could achieve normal snowfall through the accumulation of several smaller systems throughout the month,” explains Patrick duplessis, a meteorologist.
