You’ve seen the postcards. Snowy streets, glowing lanterns, and people wrapped in wool like human burritos. But honestly, a weather report Montreal Canada in the middle of January is rarely just a steady "winter wonderland" vibe. It’s more of a mood swing. One day you're dodging slush, the next you're basically an ice sculpture.
Right now, if you step outside in Montreal on this Sunday, January 18, 2026, it’s about 25°F. That sounds manageable, right? Kinda. But here’s the kicker: with that southwest wind kicking up at 15 mph, the "feels like" temperature is actually sitting at a biting 12°F. It’s that damp, eastern Canadian cold that finds the gap between your scarf and your chin.
The sky is currently doing that "partly sunny" thing, though don't get used to it. Clouds are moving in fast.
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The Reality of a Montreal Weather Report This Week
People think Montreal in January is a constant blizzard. It’s not. It’s actually quite dry most of the time, though today we’re looking at a 10% chance of snow during the day, jumping up to 20% tonight. It’s basically just enough to make the sidewalks annoying but not enough to justify breaking out the heavy-duty snowblower.
The high for today is pinned at 26°F, while the low will dip down to 15°F.
Historically, this is actually a bit of a "warm" spell. If you look at the climate normals from Environment Canada for this time of year, the daily average is usually closer to -10°C (14°F). We’re currently hovering above that, which is why the locals are probably out on Mont-Royal without their full arctic gear.
What You Actually Need to Wear
If you’re checking the weather report Montreal Canada to figure out your outfit, stop looking at the thermometer. Look at the wind.
- The Wind Chill Factor: Since it feels like 12°F, a light "fashion" coat is a mistake. You need a windbreaker layer.
- Humidity Issues: Montreal has a relative humidity of 72% today. High humidity in winter makes the cold feel "heavier." It sticks to you.
- Footwear: With a 74% humidity forecast and temperatures hovering near freezing, the ground is going to be a mix of salt-melted slush and "black ice." Wear boots with actual grip.
Why the UV Index Matters (Even When It's 0)
Today’s UV index is 0. Tonight it’s 1. Basically, the sun is a myth right now.
However, Montrealers know that the lack of sun doesn't mean you ignore your skin. The reflection of even minimal light off the snow can cause some serious squinting. If you're heading to the Old Port for a walk, you'll still see people in sunglasses. It's not because they're being "cool"—it's because the glare is a genuine hazard when the sun finally peeks through those "partly sunny" clouds.
The Week Ahead: What the Experts Say
Looking at the data from the Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport station, we are seeing a trend of "mostly cloudy" to "cloudy" conditions for the next 24 hours. The southwest wind is staying consistent. That’s typical for this corridor of the St. Lawrence Valley. The wind funnels through the river valley, which is why it always feels a bit gustier downtown than the raw numbers suggest.
Actionable Tips for Navigating Montreal Today
Don't let the "mostly cloudy" forecast keep you inside, but be smart about it.
- Check the "Feels Like": Always prioritize the wind chill over the actual temperature. Today's 13-degree gap between the two is a classic Montreal trap.
- The 20% Rule: Tonight’s 20% snow chance is low, but in Montreal, that often translates to a "dusting" that turns into a skating rink by 6:00 AM tomorrow. If you're driving, park somewhere where you won't get plowed in.
- Layering Strategy: Since we are hitting a high of 26°F, you’ll sweat if you’re walking fast in a heavy parka. Go for a moisture-wicking base layer. Honestly, it makes a world of difference when you transition from the freezing outdoors to the overheated Metro stations.
The most important thing to remember about a Montreal weather report is that it changes faster than the light on Sainte-Catherine Street. Keep an eye on that southwest wind—it's the real story today.