Residents of the Ottawa area are being urged to exercise extreme caution when venturing outdoors on Tuesday morning, as Environment Canada has issued a significant weather advisory for the national capital region. The meteorological agency forecasts patchy freezing drizzle overnight Monday and continuing into the early hours of Tuesday, creating potentially dangerous icy surfaces that may be difficult to detect.
Hazardous Conditions Expected
Environment Canada's advisory specifically warns that roads, walkways, and other exposed surfaces will likely become icy and slippery due to the freezing precipitation. The agency has classified the impact level as moderate, indicating substantial risk for pedestrians and motorists alike. Freezing drizzle produces a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that can make even routine travel treacherous.
Timeline of the Weather Event
The freezing drizzle is expected to persist through the night and into Tuesday morning before gradually tapering off. Additionally, fog patches are forecast to develop after midnight and dissipate by Tuesday morning, potentially reducing visibility alongside the slippery conditions.
Temperature Fluctuations Throughout the Week
Tuesday's weather will see considerable temperature variation, with a daytime high reaching 3°C before plunging to a low of -8°C overnight. For the remainder of the week, highs are predicted to hover around or just below the freezing point.
The extended forecast includes:
- A chance of flurries or snow every day except Thursday
- Thursday expected to bring a mix of sun and cloud
- Consistently cold temperatures maintaining winter conditions
Safety Recommendations
Environment Canada emphasizes that icy surfaces could be particularly challenging to identify, especially during early morning hours when lighting is poor. Residents are advised to:
- Allow extra travel time for Tuesday morning commutes
- Wear appropriate footwear with good traction
- Exercise heightened awareness when walking or driving
- Consider delaying non-essential travel until conditions improve
This weather advisory serves as a timely reminder of Ottawa's unpredictable winter conditions and the importance of staying informed about developing meteorological situations that could impact daily activities and transportation safety throughout the region.
