Could there be more rain today, Ottawa? It’s January, ya? Who can tell with the temperature sitting at 3 degrees and all that rainfall. But we’re here to tell you, it is still winter and there is snow on the way tomorrow night. Of course there is, and our winter warriors are ready!
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement(link is external) for the Ottawa region. Strong winds are expected this afternoon, with gusts between 70 and 90 kilometres per hour, easing later this evening. Rain showers or periods of drizzle beginning this morning. Rain will taper off, giving way to cloudy conditions. Winds will shift to the west at 40 kilometres per hour, gusting up to 70, before becoming light after midnight. The overnight low is forecast at minus 3, with a wind chill of minus 6.
Clouds will increase through day on Saturday and a daytime high of zero is forecasted. Then snow or rain is expected to begin overnight with 5 to 10 centimetres possible before coming to an end on Sunday.
Our response
As the rain moved into the region, supervisors have continued to monitor areas that are prone to water ponding and localized flooding. Crews have been deployed to open up catch basins and ditches to ensure they are able to take in water. We are asking for anyone who can to ensure that their local catch basin is clear. With over 100,000 catch basins in the city, we cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.
Find your nearest catch basin using our catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin(link is external)? Let us know!
Given the temperature is expected to drop to below zero tonight, areas such as sidewalks, roads, pathways and the winter cycling network that are wet could freeze, creating icy and slippery conditions. Residents are reminded to take extra care when walking, driving or cycling.
As the next system moves in and accumulation begins, crews will be deployed to clear and treat the sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Parks Maintenance will also be out clearing and treating emergency service stations, libraries and community centers as well as some City facility parking lots.
Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the transportation network and the forecast throughout the weekend. The team will be ready to respond as required and, depending on snowfall amounts, an operational update may be required on Sunday.
Your continued support is valued and appreciated. Please travel with care this weekend.
