Environment Canada has lifted thefreezing rain warning for the Ottawa Region. The storm predominantly stayed south of the city last night and was not as severe as initially forecasted.
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for the Ottawa Region. Strong winds, flurries and local blowing snow are expected throughout the day, with wind gusts up to 70 kilometers per hour. Colder temperatures are expected overnight and for the remainder of the week, creating icy and slippery conditions.
Given crews are still working at restoring the transportation network, the Significant Weather Event will remain in effect until 7pm tonight.
Residents are reminded to use extreme caution while using the transportation network as highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots will become icy and slippery, and there is a possibility of power outages and tree damage from the ice buildup. If you must go out, give yourself extra time and adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our response
The City remains in a “Monitoring” stance, but will return to “Normal Operations” later today. The Public Works Department worked overnight and that work will continue today.
Roads and Parking Services will continue treating sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network throughout the day and have moved into residential areas. The transportation network is expected to be fully restored by this evening. The nightshift will pick up where the dayshift leaves off to complete any remaining work in the residential areas and will focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs.
Parks Maintenance crews have been treating City facility parking lots, recreation centre lots and pathways since early morning and will continue throughout the day. Crews are also ready to deploy resources as required.
Traffic Services continues to monitor and adjust traffic signals and manage mobility implications as required, with on-call personnel prepared for controller and signal issues. There have been no significant mobility impacts reported.
Forestry Services received no urgent calls last night and continues to monitor wind and ice buildup and is prepared to respond for downed trees and dangerous limbs.
There may be delays with waste collection due to icy conditions. Residents are reminded to leave their bins out at the curb until they are emptied as it may take crews longer to complete their collection routes.
Our Transit partners have confirmed that O-Train Lines 1, 2 and 4, buses and Para Transpo are operating today; they recommend that transit customers stay safe, plan ahead, and allow extra time for their travels while watching for slippery surfaces and taking care when entering and exiting buses and trains.
Next steps
Although the freezing rain event underperformed, yesterday’s preparation and Public Works' collaborative approach ensured we were well positioned to manage this event overnight and today. The City will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day and respond accordingly.
Unless the forecast changes significantly, please consider this the final departmental update regarding this freezing rain event.
