A treacherous bout of freezing rain descended on the nation's capital on Monday, December 29, 2025, throwing Ottawa's transportation systems into chaos. The icy conditions led to significant delays and cancellations for air, rail, and road travel, stranding holiday travelers and commuters alike.
Travel Plans Frozen at Ottawa Airport
The impact was starkly visible at the Ottawa International Airport, where passengers like Gordon Kilpinen were left anxiously checking flight status boards. Many flights were delayed or cancelled outright as airport crews worked to de-ice planes and clear slick runways. The situation created a ripple effect of disruptions, with inbound flights also heavily affected.
Ground transportation was equally hampered. Major highways and city streets became hazardous, leading to a spike in minor collisions and slowing traffic to a crawl. OC Transpo services experienced delays on many routes, while Via Rail reported disruptions to train service in and out of Ottawa due to the unsafe conditions on the tracks.
A Wider Pattern of Winter Disruption
The storm in Ottawa was part of a broader pattern of severe winter weather affecting parts of Canada as 2025 drew to a close. Meteorologists had warned of the potential for power outages in regions hit by freezing rain and heavy snow. The event underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to sudden and severe winter weather events, which can paralyze a major city in a matter of hours.
For residents and travelers, the day was defined by frustration and adaptation. The timing, during the busy holiday travel period, compounded the difficulties for many trying to return home or visit family.
Looking Ahead: Cleanup and Caution
City crews were deployed throughout the day to salt and sand roads, with priority given to major arteries and transit routes. The focus for Tuesday, December 30, shifted to cleanup and restoring normal operations, though the forecast called for continued chilly temperatures that could prolong icy patches.
The December 29 storm serves as a sharp reminder for Canadians to monitor weather alerts closely during the winter months and to prepare for potential travel interruptions. Officials advise checking with airlines, rail providers, and local transit authorities before heading out during winter weather warnings.
