Montrealers woke up Sunday to the first real taste of winter as a snowfall warning blanketed the city.
Environment Canada is warning that up to 20 centimetres could fall by Monday morning.
Snow is expected to begin around midday Sunday and will continue into the night, mixing with rain at times. A brief period of freezing rain is also possible, making roads slippery and reducing visibility.
Northeasterly winds could gust up to 40 kilometres an hour.
The Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec is urging motorists to avoid non-essential travel and to adapt their driving to winter conditions.
Drivers are being told to slow down, increase following distances, and completely clear snow and ice from their vehicle, including the roof, headlights and licence plate.
The SAAQ also reminds drivers to check road conditions before heading out, keep headlights on when visibility drops, and give snowplows plenty of room.
Failing to properly clear a vehicle or drive safely in poor weather could lead to fines of up to $200 and, in some cases, demerit points.
On Monday, periods of snow will continue through the day with another five to 10 centimetres possible and temperatures steady near zero.
Snow is expected to return Tuesday with highs around the freezing mark.
By Wednesday, skies will stay mostly cloudy with a chance of snow or rain and temperatures near three degrees, marking the first true winter stretch of the season for Montreal.
