Residents of the capital should keep their snow shovels close at hand. Environment Canada has issued a weather forecast predicting a persistent pattern of snow flurries for Ottawa, expected to continue every day until at least Sunday, January 16.
Daily Forecast Breakdown
The snowy conditions are set to begin in earnest on Wednesday, January 14. Meteorologists are calling for a 60 percent chance of flurries starting in the afternoon. An additional two to four centimetres of accumulation is anticipated through the evening, accompanied by northwest winds gusting up to 40 km/h. The temperature will plummet to around -13°C overnight, with wind chill making it feel closer to a biting -23°C.
Thursday is expected to bring about five centimetres of snow. The temperature will hold steady near -12°C, again feeling like -23 with the wind. The evening may see cloudy periods with a reduced, 30 percent chance of flurries.
Weekend Outlook and Safety Warnings
The unsettled weather shows no sign of letting up as the weekend approaches. Friday's menu features periods of snow with a high of -5°C, while Friday night holds a 60 percent chance of flurries. The forecast for Saturday currently shows a 60-percent chance of flurries, and Sunday a 40-percent chance with a high of -8°C.
In light of the extended period of winter weather, Ottawa Police and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are urging drivers to exercise caution. Authorities advise motorists to allow extra travel time, ensure their vehicles are completely cleared of snow—including headlights and taillights—and to reduce their speed on potentially slippery roads.
This multi-day snow event serves as a reminder that winter is firmly in place in the nation's capital, requiring preparedness and patience from all residents navigating the conditions.
