What the data shows
What does the winter storm on March 16, 2026, mean for schools in Quebec? The answer is clear: widespread closures across various educational institutions due to severe weather conditions. In regions such as Abitibi-Témiscamingue and Lac-Saint-Jean, schools have been closed as heavy snowfall and freezing rain are expected to create hazardous conditions.
According to reports, schools in Abitibi-Témiscamingue have shut down, with snowfall expected to reach between 20-40 centimeters in certain areas. Additionally, all schools in the CSS du Lac-Saint-Jean have also been closed, and courses at Cégep de St-Félicien and Cégep de Chicoutimi have been suspended. The CSS des Rives-du-Saguenay and CSS du Pays-des-Bleuets have followed suit, ensuring that students remain safe during this adverse weather.
Visibility is anticipated to be nearly zero during the storm, with heavy snow and rain expected to complicate travel. The forecast indicates that up to 40 centimeters of snow could accumulate in some regions, along with 5-10 mm of freezing rain. These conditions have prompted officials to issue winter storm warnings for areas including Chibougamau and northern Lac-Saint-Jean.
Road conditions are expected to be very difficult, with possible wind speeds reaching 50 km/h, which could lead to blowing snow and further reduce visibility. As a result, authorities have warned that road closures may occur, making travel perilous.
Despite the closures, services de garde (daycare services) will remain open in primary schools, allowing parents some flexibility during this challenging time. The decision to keep these services operational reflects an understanding of the needs of working families amidst the storm’s disruptions.
As the storm progresses, local authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary. The community is urged to stay informed and exercise caution if travel is unavoidable. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the duration of the closures and any potential extensions depending on the storm’s impact.
This winter storm serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by severe weather, particularly in northern Quebec, where such conditions can lead to significant disruptions in daily life. The swift response by educational institutions highlights the priority placed on student safety during extreme weather events.
