On this page you will find updates from the Winter Operations Team about weather events in the City of Ottawa
February 3rd, 2023
Yesterday evening, the Ottawa Airport reported 2.4 centimetres of snow as winds swept through the City. While it may not be a record we wanted to break, last night’s snow squall brought wind gusts reaching 68 kilometres an hour, making this Ottawa’s windiest February 2nd on record. Travelling conditions were at the mercy of the winds as drifting snow not only covered parts of the network, but also suddenly reduced visibility to zero.
Today’s extreme cold has now settled in, but if the windchill gets any lower then we may just be breaking another record. Winds and scattered flurries are expected throughout the day but will settle before the evening hours. Although the deep freeze is expected to continue tomorrow – possibly even dropping another few degrees beginning overnight tonight – we will be getting a bit of a reprieve in terms of temperature as Sunday is showing a high of +1.
As of the latest forecast, flurries and periods of snow are expected to begin Saturday night and will continue through to Sunday evening. Totals continue to trend downward and vary throughout the City. But for now, we are expecting up to 5 centimetres of snow before the end of the event.
Our Response
Last night, Roads and Parking Services had to adjust a portion of its operations to clear and treat sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Winds ravaged through many parts of our network, especially in neighbourhoods with open fields where snow got swooped up onto the travelled surface. Clean-up efforts from yesterday’s event will continue throughout the day, as will our planned snowbank removal operations.
One thing to keep in mind is that the extreme cold temperature slows down our equipment and operations, but our dedicated teams will continue working through these harsh winter conditions.
Snowbank Removal Operations Continues
Snowbank removal operations remains on our operational forecast and work is scheduled to continue into the weekend. Even with yesterday’s partial shift in operations, in the last 24 hours, Roads and Parking Services:
A few important reminders:
What’s Next
Sunday’s forecast continues to change, and uncertainty remains in terms of how the event will land when it reaches the City. Whatever the case may be for Sunday, Roads and Parking Services will deploy staff and equipment in accordance with the conditions. If needed, our response will begin with clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, and the winter cycling network.
Based on the latest forecast, snowbank removal throughout the City is planned to continue throughout the weekend and, similar to yesterday evening, operations will be adjusted as required to ensure a portion of the team is reallocated to respond to the weather if necessary.
Should Sunday’s forecast evolve, we will update you on our operations. Otherwise, please consider this your operational update for the weekend.
Stay safe and stay warm.
Yesterday evening, the Ottawa Airport reported 2.4 centimetres of snow as winds swept through the City. While it may not be a record we wanted to break, last night’s snow squall brought wind gusts reaching 68 kilometres an hour, making this Ottawa’s windiest February 2nd on record. Travelling conditions were at the mercy of the winds as drifting snow not only covered parts of the network, but also suddenly reduced visibility to zero.
Today’s extreme cold has now settled in, but if the windchill gets any lower then we may just be breaking another record. Winds and scattered flurries are expected throughout the day but will settle before the evening hours. Although the deep freeze is expected to continue tomorrow – possibly even dropping another few degrees beginning overnight tonight – we will be getting a bit of a reprieve in terms of temperature as Sunday is showing a high of +1.
As of the latest forecast, flurries and periods of snow are expected to begin Saturday night and will continue through to Sunday evening. Totals continue to trend downward and vary throughout the City. But for now, we are expecting up to 5 centimetres of snow before the end of the event.
Our Response
Last night, Roads and Parking Services had to adjust a portion of its operations to clear and treat sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Winds ravaged through many parts of our network, especially in neighbourhoods with open fields where snow got swooped up onto the travelled surface. Clean-up efforts from yesterday’s event will continue throughout the day, as will our planned snowbank removal operations.
One thing to keep in mind is that the extreme cold temperature slows down our equipment and operations, but our dedicated teams will continue working through these harsh winter conditions.
Snowbank Removal Operations Continues
Snowbank removal operations remains on our operational forecast and work is scheduled to continue into the weekend. Even with yesterday’s partial shift in operations, in the last 24 hours, Roads and Parking Services:
- Removed snowbanks from more than 72,536 curb metres. A number that will have increased by the time you read this, as completion reports continue coming in!
- Assigned 39 crews to snow removal efforts.
- Removed snowbanks from at least 91 street segments. Again, this number will increase throughout the day as work is still being tallied.
A few important reminders:
- Please stay a safe distance from our working vehicles! Playing in the snow – including making a snow man and building snow forts – should always be done far away from the road. Backyards are always best!
- On-street parking in areas where snowbank removal is scheduled is prohibited. Everyone, including those with on-street parking permits, must remove their vehicle from the road or risk being ticketed and towed to a nearby street. Always look for posted signage as these show when operations are scheduled to begin!
- Temporary no stopping signs used for snowbank removal work are made from biodegradable material and along with the snow, are blown into the trucks and brought to our snow storage facilities. Once the snow melts, signs – along with any other waste picked up during removal operations – will be discarded of appropriately.
What’s Next
Sunday’s forecast continues to change, and uncertainty remains in terms of how the event will land when it reaches the City. Whatever the case may be for Sunday, Roads and Parking Services will deploy staff and equipment in accordance with the conditions. If needed, our response will begin with clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, and the winter cycling network.
Based on the latest forecast, snowbank removal throughout the City is planned to continue throughout the weekend and, similar to yesterday evening, operations will be adjusted as required to ensure a portion of the team is reallocated to respond to the weather if necessary.
Should Sunday’s forecast evolve, we will update you on our operations. Otherwise, please consider this your operational update for the weekend.
Stay safe and stay warm.
February 2nd, 2023 (2/2)
Shortly after 1 pm today, Environment Canada issued a Snow Squall Watch for the City. The range of wind gust speeds have since increased to 50 to 70 kilometres an hour, potentially creating dangerous conditions as visibility – caused by both falling and blowing snow – may be suddenly reduced. Snow fall accumulation reaching up to 5 centimetres is also possible for certain parts of the City. The timing of this event is expected to begin this afternoon, and continue into the evening hours.
In order to keep sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network safe during this event, a portion of the team who has been removing snowbanks may need to be reallocated to respond to the weather. Luckily, this is a smaller event and snowbank removal will be able to continue in parallel. Once the network is restored, teams who had been redeployed will be able to rejoin our removal crews.
Next Steps
As the event continues making its way to the City, there is a chance for Environment Canada to update its alert to a Snow Squall Warning – but, we are ready. Supervisors will be out monitoring the network, especially out in rural neighbourhoods where drifting and blowing snow are more likely to arise, and teams will be dispatched at the first sight of flakes.
At this time, our focus remains with snowbank removal and unless an operational shift is required, snowbank removal will continue at full capacity.
Our next update – truly, this time – will be shared with you tomorrow. We encourage everyone to monitor Environment Canada for the most up-to-date forecast information.
Shortly after 1 pm today, Environment Canada issued a Snow Squall Watch for the City. The range of wind gust speeds have since increased to 50 to 70 kilometres an hour, potentially creating dangerous conditions as visibility – caused by both falling and blowing snow – may be suddenly reduced. Snow fall accumulation reaching up to 5 centimetres is also possible for certain parts of the City. The timing of this event is expected to begin this afternoon, and continue into the evening hours.
In order to keep sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network safe during this event, a portion of the team who has been removing snowbanks may need to be reallocated to respond to the weather. Luckily, this is a smaller event and snowbank removal will be able to continue in parallel. Once the network is restored, teams who had been redeployed will be able to rejoin our removal crews.
Next Steps
As the event continues making its way to the City, there is a chance for Environment Canada to update its alert to a Snow Squall Warning – but, we are ready. Supervisors will be out monitoring the network, especially out in rural neighbourhoods where drifting and blowing snow are more likely to arise, and teams will be dispatched at the first sight of flakes.
At this time, our focus remains with snowbank removal and unless an operational shift is required, snowbank removal will continue at full capacity.
Our next update – truly, this time – will be shared with you tomorrow. We encourage everyone to monitor Environment Canada for the most up-to-date forecast information.
February 2nd, 2023 (1/2)
Just like today’s forecast, we’ll be keeping this update relatively light.
Environment Canada is forecasting that flurries – possibly heavy at times – may begin during this afternoon’s commute, continuing into this evening as the temperature begins to plummet. A low of -26 degrees Celsius and wind gusts around 30 to 50 kilometres an hour are also possible through tonight’s overnight hours. By Friday morning, adding the wind chill value to the mix, means we could reach -41 degrees Celsius. It’s going to be one cold Friday!
Tallying Up Our Snowbanks
Since our last update, snowbanks have been shown no mercy and one-by-one, we’re continuing to remove those who are encroaching the most on our network. Since Tuesday, Roads and Parking Services has:
Did you know that we can have up to 7 workers assigned to a single snow removal crew with another 8 to 12 operators hauling snow from our roads and into our snow disposal facilities? This means that over a 12-hour period, we can have up to 513 people working on snow removal simultaneously. This doesn’t even include those who are out coordinating, leading and supporting the operations!
Operational Forecast
Snowbank removal efforts will continue through today, tomorrow, and into the weekend. Our focus remains on arterials and major collectors, while Urban neighbourhoods that have not yet been completed are still the priority.
Please remember that parking restrictions are in effect during snowbank removal operations – pay close attention to posted signage as these indicate when parking restrictions will take effect. Failure to remove parked vehicles from areas scheduled for snow removal will be ticketed and towed to a nearby street. No one is exempt from these restrictions, including those with on-street parking permits.
Next Steps
While predictions have changed several times since we began monitoring, Sunday is showing signs that more winter weather may be on its way. In anticipation of this event, we will be putting considerable efforts towards removal work before we may need to redeploy resources to address the changing conditions. Until then, you can count on Roads and Parking Services to continue working towards opening up those roadways, helping to make them safe and passable for everyone.
Another update on our progress and operational plan for this weekend will be shared tomorrow.
Until then, we appreciate everyone’s patience and support as we continue working through one busy winter season.
Please stay warm.
Just like today’s forecast, we’ll be keeping this update relatively light.
Environment Canada is forecasting that flurries – possibly heavy at times – may begin during this afternoon’s commute, continuing into this evening as the temperature begins to plummet. A low of -26 degrees Celsius and wind gusts around 30 to 50 kilometres an hour are also possible through tonight’s overnight hours. By Friday morning, adding the wind chill value to the mix, means we could reach -41 degrees Celsius. It’s going to be one cold Friday!
Tallying Up Our Snowbanks
Since our last update, snowbanks have been shown no mercy and one-by-one, we’re continuing to remove those who are encroaching the most on our network. Since Tuesday, Roads and Parking Services has:
- Assigned a combined total of 108 crews to snow removal.
- Worked through 4 shift changes – changes that will continue well into the weekend.
- Removed snowbanks from 162,960 curb metres. This is the equivalent of clearing 56.58 curb metres a minute!
- Removed snowbanks from more than 243 street segments.
Did you know that we can have up to 7 workers assigned to a single snow removal crew with another 8 to 12 operators hauling snow from our roads and into our snow disposal facilities? This means that over a 12-hour period, we can have up to 513 people working on snow removal simultaneously. This doesn’t even include those who are out coordinating, leading and supporting the operations!
Operational Forecast
Snowbank removal efforts will continue through today, tomorrow, and into the weekend. Our focus remains on arterials and major collectors, while Urban neighbourhoods that have not yet been completed are still the priority.
Please remember that parking restrictions are in effect during snowbank removal operations – pay close attention to posted signage as these indicate when parking restrictions will take effect. Failure to remove parked vehicles from areas scheduled for snow removal will be ticketed and towed to a nearby street. No one is exempt from these restrictions, including those with on-street parking permits.
Next Steps
While predictions have changed several times since we began monitoring, Sunday is showing signs that more winter weather may be on its way. In anticipation of this event, we will be putting considerable efforts towards removal work before we may need to redeploy resources to address the changing conditions. Until then, you can count on Roads and Parking Services to continue working towards opening up those roadways, helping to make them safe and passable for everyone.
Another update on our progress and operational plan for this weekend will be shared tomorrow.
Until then, we appreciate everyone’s patience and support as we continue working through one busy winter season.
Please stay warm.
January 31st, 2023
Give your shovels a break this week but make sure to put on a few extra layers as forecast shows that we may be reaching a seasonal low before we head into the weekend! With little precipitation expected this week, it’s an ideal time for Roads and Parking Services to kick its snowbank removal operations up a notch, and that’s exactly what’s in store for this week’s operational forecast.
Snowbank removal operations have resumed! Today we’ll be updating you on what we’ve accomplished, the challenges we’ve encountered and what our plan is for the days ahead. But before we dive in, here are a few important factors that are behind the consideration, timing and planning of our snowbank removal operations:
2022/2023 in A Nutshell
We’d like to look back at this winter season but more specifically, what Ottawa experienced in terms of weather and what that means for our operations in the coming days. To put the 2022/2023 season into perspective, this season’s total snow fall is currently sitting at 204.9 centimetres. This is nearly double the amount over this period’s average from the last 3 years. 33% of this accumulation – 67.5 centimetres to be exact – fell in the last 15 days alone, putting us well ahead of the average totals from the last 3 entire winter seasons. And, there is still a lot of winter left to be had.
Until mid-January, rain and above-freezing temperatures were on our side as these helped to lessen the size of the snowbanks. The need for their removal wasn’t imminent, but little did we know that back-to-back-to-back winter weather events were on their way. Over the next 15 days, an additional 67.5 centimetres of snow was dropped onto our network and so our operations had to adjust not only quickly, but also frequently.
Let’s take a closer look at what happened:
Roads and Parking Services has been navigating through the forecast, actual conditions, and impacts that recent winter weather events had on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. Even so, to-date this season we’ve already assigned 398 crews to snow removal operations and their ongoing and persistent efforts have led to:
Our work is far from over and will continue through this week and into the weekend.
Operational Forecast
Clean-up efforts from the last 48 hours are wrapping up and finishing touches are being applied to problem spots such as bus stops, crosswalks, turning lanes, intersections, corners, and cul-de-sacs.
This evening, crews will continue snowbank removal operations. Keep an eye out for posted signage as this is an indication that work is about to begin! In Urban neighbourhoods, we will be prioritizing residential streets where snowbanks have not yet been removed. As for other parts of the City, you can expect snowbank removal work to begin on arterials and major collectors, with school zones being the focus through the overnight hours.
Roads and Parking Services is taking full advantage of this week’s forecast and will be working day in and day out on removing snowbanks from the transportation network.
We would like to thank everyone for their patience as we work on the next stage of our winter operations. Throughout the week, we will continue to update you on the status of our progress.
Give your shovels a break this week but make sure to put on a few extra layers as forecast shows that we may be reaching a seasonal low before we head into the weekend! With little precipitation expected this week, it’s an ideal time for Roads and Parking Services to kick its snowbank removal operations up a notch, and that’s exactly what’s in store for this week’s operational forecast.
Snowbank removal operations have resumed! Today we’ll be updating you on what we’ve accomplished, the challenges we’ve encountered and what our plan is for the days ahead. But before we dive in, here are a few important factors that are behind the consideration, timing and planning of our snowbank removal operations:
- Snowbank removal operations are planned in accordance with the Council-approved Winter Maintenance Quality Standards and are prioritized based on road classification and the amount of snow that is encroaching on the roadway.
- Temporary no parking signs will be erected in snowbanks where operations are set to begin. Once signs are posted, vehicles must be removed from the roadway or risk being ticketed and towed to a nearby street. No one is exempt from these operations, including residential parking permit holders.
- When snowbank removal is underway and a winter weather event is occurring or approaching, crews are redeployed to respond to the changing conditions. Once the transportation network is restored, snowbank removal operations will resume.
2022/2023 in A Nutshell
We’d like to look back at this winter season but more specifically, what Ottawa experienced in terms of weather and what that means for our operations in the coming days. To put the 2022/2023 season into perspective, this season’s total snow fall is currently sitting at 204.9 centimetres. This is nearly double the amount over this period’s average from the last 3 years. 33% of this accumulation – 67.5 centimetres to be exact – fell in the last 15 days alone, putting us well ahead of the average totals from the last 3 entire winter seasons. And, there is still a lot of winter left to be had.
Until mid-January, rain and above-freezing temperatures were on our side as these helped to lessen the size of the snowbanks. The need for their removal wasn’t imminent, but little did we know that back-to-back-to-back winter weather events were on their way. Over the next 15 days, an additional 67.5 centimetres of snow was dropped onto our network and so our operations had to adjust not only quickly, but also frequently.
Let’s take a closer look at what happened:
- Ottawa received 24 centimeters of snow between January 11th and January 13th. Snowbank removal operations began on January 15th.
- 3 days later – on January 18th – operations shifted as winter weather was approaching. During this winter weather event, a little more than 10 centimetres of snow fell onto certain parts the network. Snowbank removal operations resumed on Saturday, January 21st.
- On January 25th, snowbank removal operations had to pause – yet again – so that teams could respond to the next winter weather event of the season. Over the next 24 hours, the City received close to 30 centimetres of snow, significantly more than what was originally forecasted.
- Snowbank removal operations resumed for a third time on Saturday, January 28th but were soon after interrupted as Sunday’s forecast showed that another 10 centimetres was on its way.
- 19 centimetres of snow fell through Sunday, with an additional 5.4 centimetres on Monday. Full snowbank removal operations resumed yesterday evening.
Roads and Parking Services has been navigating through the forecast, actual conditions, and impacts that recent winter weather events had on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. Even so, to-date this season we’ve already assigned 398 crews to snow removal operations and their ongoing and persistent efforts have led to:
- The removal of snowbanks from nearly 1.5 million curb metres of the City’s transportation network.
- The removal of snowbanks from more than 1,400 street segments.
- Completed snow removal operations on 1,500 kilometers of road from our network.
Our work is far from over and will continue through this week and into the weekend.
Operational Forecast
Clean-up efforts from the last 48 hours are wrapping up and finishing touches are being applied to problem spots such as bus stops, crosswalks, turning lanes, intersections, corners, and cul-de-sacs.
This evening, crews will continue snowbank removal operations. Keep an eye out for posted signage as this is an indication that work is about to begin! In Urban neighbourhoods, we will be prioritizing residential streets where snowbanks have not yet been removed. As for other parts of the City, you can expect snowbank removal work to begin on arterials and major collectors, with school zones being the focus through the overnight hours.
Roads and Parking Services is taking full advantage of this week’s forecast and will be working day in and day out on removing snowbanks from the transportation network.
We would like to thank everyone for their patience as we work on the next stage of our winter operations. Throughout the week, we will continue to update you on the status of our progress.
January 30th, 2023
The final tally from Sunday’s snowstorm being reported from the Ottawa airport is 19 centimetres. As we move through the week, Ottawa will likely be diving into the coldest stretch of the winter so far. Bundle up, Ottawa, it’s going to be fresh!
Forecast and Conditions
A few flurries began this morning and will continue throughout the afternoon, with 3 centimetres expected.
The weather story this week is cold temperatures. With nighttime lows in the mid-teen range, the daytime highs will struggle to get much warmer than that. Daytime highs are in the high minus teens as the week comes to a close, and overnight wind chill values are expected to reach minus 40 on Friday night.
Our Response
As we progress through the day, crews will continue to clear sidewalks, touch up arterial roads and work in residential areas to clean up and treat icy conditions leftover from yesterday’s event. They will also focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners, and cul-de-sacs.
This winter season, Ottawa has received a total 199.5 centimetres of snow, including yesterday’s event. That amount exceeds last year’s total of 196.1 centimetres and the three-year average of 192.2 centimetres. That’s a lot of snow, and we recognize it has piled up right across our region, making for some very narrow roadways, sidewalks and cycling routes.
Our goal this week – snow removal operations! The forecast is favourable for snow removal operations to continue throughout the week and snow removal crews will be out in full force. Our focus continues to be prioritizing residential streets within our urban core where snowbanks have not yet been removed.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Lifted
The Winter Weather Parking Ban was lifted at 7 am. Please sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts to stay up to date on upcoming winter parking restrictions.
You can continue supporting our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour if you can share their laneway. Remember, streets that remain open helps with clearing – this support makes all the difference in ensuring we can properly open up your neighbourhood streets.
Next Steps
Please consider this the last operational update for this winter event.
The Roads and Parking Services team will be working hard on snow removal operations and is committed to keeping you up to date on our progress. This week, I will send operational updates specific to our snow removal operations, providing you with information on our plans and accomplishments.
As always, I would like to thank you for your support as we navigate this challenging winter season.
The final tally from Sunday’s snowstorm being reported from the Ottawa airport is 19 centimetres. As we move through the week, Ottawa will likely be diving into the coldest stretch of the winter so far. Bundle up, Ottawa, it’s going to be fresh!
Forecast and Conditions
A few flurries began this morning and will continue throughout the afternoon, with 3 centimetres expected.
The weather story this week is cold temperatures. With nighttime lows in the mid-teen range, the daytime highs will struggle to get much warmer than that. Daytime highs are in the high minus teens as the week comes to a close, and overnight wind chill values are expected to reach minus 40 on Friday night.
Our Response
As we progress through the day, crews will continue to clear sidewalks, touch up arterial roads and work in residential areas to clean up and treat icy conditions leftover from yesterday’s event. They will also focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners, and cul-de-sacs.
This winter season, Ottawa has received a total 199.5 centimetres of snow, including yesterday’s event. That amount exceeds last year’s total of 196.1 centimetres and the three-year average of 192.2 centimetres. That’s a lot of snow, and we recognize it has piled up right across our region, making for some very narrow roadways, sidewalks and cycling routes.
Our goal this week – snow removal operations! The forecast is favourable for snow removal operations to continue throughout the week and snow removal crews will be out in full force. Our focus continues to be prioritizing residential streets within our urban core where snowbanks have not yet been removed.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Lifted
The Winter Weather Parking Ban was lifted at 7 am. Please sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts to stay up to date on upcoming winter parking restrictions.
You can continue supporting our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour if you can share their laneway. Remember, streets that remain open helps with clearing – this support makes all the difference in ensuring we can properly open up your neighbourhood streets.
Next Steps
Please consider this the last operational update for this winter event.
The Roads and Parking Services team will be working hard on snow removal operations and is committed to keeping you up to date on our progress. This week, I will send operational updates specific to our snow removal operations, providing you with information on our plans and accomplishments.
As always, I would like to thank you for your support as we navigate this challenging winter season.
January 29th, 2023
Although snow started later than expected, the accumulation held steady and then some, with Ottawa receiving 18 centimetres of snow, reported at the airport as of 4pm this afternoon. The Weather Advisory remains in effect for the Ottawa region.
Forecast and Conditions
The snow is tapering off and the winds are calming down. Periods of light snow will make a return tomorrow in the late morning to early afternoon and run through until the mid-evening hours, with 2 to 3 centimetres of accumulation expected. Looking ahead to next week, Ottawa is in for a cold snap with more seasonal temperatures and some sunshine.
Snow accumulation and the drop in temperature could create difficult travel conditions. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks.
Our Response
All resources are deployed, and the focus remains on clearing and treating our sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Crews are also expected to work overnight in residential neighbourhoods to ensure streets are clear for the morning commute.
The theme of the week is cleanup! These back-to-back events of persistent snowfall and drifting snow are making cleanup a challenge - we know it will take longer than usual, but our crews are hard at work. Please be kind and patient as our operators do their job. A wave and a smile of appreciation can go a long way.
As we progress through the week, crews will continue to clear sidewalks, touch up arterial roads and work in residential areas to clean up and treat icy conditions. They will also focus on snow removal, cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners, and cul-de-sacs.
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in Effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until tomorrow, January 30, at 7 am. Please remove your vehicle from the road or risk being ticketed. Though residential parking permit holders or parking on our commercial main streets are exempt, we encourage those who can, to please find off-street parking options to help operators clear and treat as close to the curb as possible.
Information on where to park during a Winter Weather Parking Ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Snowbank Removal Operations Will Resume
In certain areas of the city, snowbank removal operations are expected to resume Monday, and residential streets within our urban core that have not yet been completed will be prioritized.
Once snowbank removal work is scheduled, temporary no parking signs will go up advising everyone that the work is about to begin. When and where these signs go up, parked vehicles must be removed from the roadway and failure to do-so will result in a ticket and tow to a nearby street. No one is exempt from these restrictions, including those with an on-street parking permit.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team has been at it non-stop for several weeks, and the 7-day forecast looks favourable for crews to have a chance to get caught up and take a deep breath. As always, we are at the mercy of Mother Nature, so supervisors will continue to monitor the forecast, the transportation network and adjust our response according to the weather conditions.
We are committed to keeping you informed, and I will provide another update on our progress tomorrow.
Thank you for supporting our winter operations.
Although snow started later than expected, the accumulation held steady and then some, with Ottawa receiving 18 centimetres of snow, reported at the airport as of 4pm this afternoon. The Weather Advisory remains in effect for the Ottawa region.
Forecast and Conditions
The snow is tapering off and the winds are calming down. Periods of light snow will make a return tomorrow in the late morning to early afternoon and run through until the mid-evening hours, with 2 to 3 centimetres of accumulation expected. Looking ahead to next week, Ottawa is in for a cold snap with more seasonal temperatures and some sunshine.
Snow accumulation and the drop in temperature could create difficult travel conditions. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks.
Our Response
All resources are deployed, and the focus remains on clearing and treating our sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Crews are also expected to work overnight in residential neighbourhoods to ensure streets are clear for the morning commute.
The theme of the week is cleanup! These back-to-back events of persistent snowfall and drifting snow are making cleanup a challenge - we know it will take longer than usual, but our crews are hard at work. Please be kind and patient as our operators do their job. A wave and a smile of appreciation can go a long way.
As we progress through the week, crews will continue to clear sidewalks, touch up arterial roads and work in residential areas to clean up and treat icy conditions. They will also focus on snow removal, cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners, and cul-de-sacs.
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in Effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until tomorrow, January 30, at 7 am. Please remove your vehicle from the road or risk being ticketed. Though residential parking permit holders or parking on our commercial main streets are exempt, we encourage those who can, to please find off-street parking options to help operators clear and treat as close to the curb as possible.
Information on where to park during a Winter Weather Parking Ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Snowbank Removal Operations Will Resume
In certain areas of the city, snowbank removal operations are expected to resume Monday, and residential streets within our urban core that have not yet been completed will be prioritized.
Once snowbank removal work is scheduled, temporary no parking signs will go up advising everyone that the work is about to begin. When and where these signs go up, parked vehicles must be removed from the roadway and failure to do-so will result in a ticket and tow to a nearby street. No one is exempt from these restrictions, including those with an on-street parking permit.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team has been at it non-stop for several weeks, and the 7-day forecast looks favourable for crews to have a chance to get caught up and take a deep breath. As always, we are at the mercy of Mother Nature, so supervisors will continue to monitor the forecast, the transportation network and adjust our response according to the weather conditions.
We are committed to keeping you informed, and I will provide another update on our progress tomorrow.
Thank you for supporting our winter operations.
January 28th, 2023
It’s a very busy time for the Roads and Parking Services team. Last night, we continued to clean up and treat icy conditions on our transportation network, with a focus on sidewalks as well as any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners, and cul-de-sacs. City staff and crews have been on the job around the clock, and we would like to acknowledge their hard work, perseverance and dedication.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region due to a low pressure system tracking south of the area. Periods of snow beginning near midnight and continuing until Sunday evening is anticipated, with 10 to 15 centimetres of snow accumulation expected. Very cold air is also expected to be in place, which means more light and fluffy snow. Winds could gust up to 40 kilometres per hour at times, reducing visibility.
Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions of the transportation network. Take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.
Our Response
This evening and heading into the overnight hours, snow removal operations will resume with a focus on minor collector and residential streets within our urban core. Given the forecast, crews are ready to shift their efforts to respond to the next system moving into the region.
All available resources will be deployed and will work around the clock. At the start of accumulation early Sunday morning, work will begin by clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Teams will continue working throughout the day, into the evening and overnight tomorrow.
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Sunday, January 29 from 7pm to Monday, January 30 at 7am. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Snow Removal Operations are Paused
Snow removal operations will be paused tomorrow, and resources will be reallocated to respond to this storm. Snow removal operations will resume once our storm response has ended, and residential streets within our urban core that have not yet been completed will be prioritized.
Next Steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network over the next 36 hours, and we will adjust our response according to the conditions.
We are committed to keeping you informed as we progress through the event and will provide another update tomorrow.
These past few weeks of winter have been challenging, and we appreciate your patience, understanding and continued support of our winter operations.
It’s a very busy time for the Roads and Parking Services team. Last night, we continued to clean up and treat icy conditions on our transportation network, with a focus on sidewalks as well as any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners, and cul-de-sacs. City staff and crews have been on the job around the clock, and we would like to acknowledge their hard work, perseverance and dedication.
Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region due to a low pressure system tracking south of the area. Periods of snow beginning near midnight and continuing until Sunday evening is anticipated, with 10 to 15 centimetres of snow accumulation expected. Very cold air is also expected to be in place, which means more light and fluffy snow. Winds could gust up to 40 kilometres per hour at times, reducing visibility.
Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions of the transportation network. Take extra care when walking, driving or cycling in affected areas. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.
Our Response
This evening and heading into the overnight hours, snow removal operations will resume with a focus on minor collector and residential streets within our urban core. Given the forecast, crews are ready to shift their efforts to respond to the next system moving into the region.
All available resources will be deployed and will work around the clock. At the start of accumulation early Sunday morning, work will begin by clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Teams will continue working throughout the day, into the evening and overnight tomorrow.
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Sunday, January 29 from 7pm to Monday, January 30 at 7am. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Snow Removal Operations are Paused
Snow removal operations will be paused tomorrow, and resources will be reallocated to respond to this storm. Snow removal operations will resume once our storm response has ended, and residential streets within our urban core that have not yet been completed will be prioritized.
Next Steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network over the next 36 hours, and we will adjust our response according to the conditions.
We are committed to keeping you informed as we progress through the event and will provide another update tomorrow.
These past few weeks of winter have been challenging, and we appreciate your patience, understanding and continued support of our winter operations.
January 27th, 2023
It’s Friday and we haven’t had a snow-storm-free Friday in a while; let’s enjoy it while we can. Mother Nature provided the city with a total of 27 centimetres of snow Wednesday and Thursday. The task at hand today is cleanup.
Forecast and conditions
Today, we are expecting stable conditions with a flurry or two possible in some areas through the day. Although a chilly day is on tap, temperatures will slowly creep back up to around the freezing mark late tonight and into Saturday morning. Currently, the forecast indicates light snow moving into the region Saturday morning.
Our Response
Last night, teams worked on our sidewalks, priority roads, the winter cycling network and residential streets. There was a lot of snow and it took time to get through it all. In particular, sidewalks in certain locations are taking longer than expected because blowers were required to manage higher accumulations due to the blowing and drifting snow. Throughout the day, those efforts will continue as well as working on addressing problem spots such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners, and cul-de-sacs.
As we head into the weekend, we would like to remind everyone to walk, drive, and cycle with care. With the amount of snow we have received, the snowbanks are high and cold temperatures will create icy conditions. So, please, adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Lifted
The Winter Weather Parking Ban was lifted yesterday at 7 pm. Please sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts to stay up to date on upcoming winter parking restrictions.
You can continue supporting our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour if you can share their laneway. Remember, streets that remain open helps with clearing – this support makes all the difference in ensuring we can properly open up your neighbourhood streets.
Snowbank Removal Operations Will Resume
In certain areas of the city, snowbank removal operations are expected to resume Saturday night with a focus on minor collector and residential streets within our urban core.
Once snowbank removal work is scheduled, temporary no parking signs will go up advising everyone that the work is about to begin. When and where these signs go up, parked vehicles must be removed from the roadway and failure to do-so will result in a ticket and tow to a nearby street. No one is exempt from these restrictions, including those with an on-street parking permit.
Next Steps
We are paying close attention to Sunday’s forecast, with 5 to 10 centimetres of snow expected. Through the weekend, teams will work on removing snowbanks while supervisors will be out monitoring the transportation network. The Roads and Parking Services team will be ready to respond when, and if, conditions change.
I will provide an update tomorrow on snow removal efforts and our operational response based on what is in the forecast.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
It’s Friday and we haven’t had a snow-storm-free Friday in a while; let’s enjoy it while we can. Mother Nature provided the city with a total of 27 centimetres of snow Wednesday and Thursday. The task at hand today is cleanup.
Forecast and conditions
Today, we are expecting stable conditions with a flurry or two possible in some areas through the day. Although a chilly day is on tap, temperatures will slowly creep back up to around the freezing mark late tonight and into Saturday morning. Currently, the forecast indicates light snow moving into the region Saturday morning.
Our Response
Last night, teams worked on our sidewalks, priority roads, the winter cycling network and residential streets. There was a lot of snow and it took time to get through it all. In particular, sidewalks in certain locations are taking longer than expected because blowers were required to manage higher accumulations due to the blowing and drifting snow. Throughout the day, those efforts will continue as well as working on addressing problem spots such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners, and cul-de-sacs.
As we head into the weekend, we would like to remind everyone to walk, drive, and cycle with care. With the amount of snow we have received, the snowbanks are high and cold temperatures will create icy conditions. So, please, adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Lifted
The Winter Weather Parking Ban was lifted yesterday at 7 pm. Please sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts to stay up to date on upcoming winter parking restrictions.
You can continue supporting our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour if you can share their laneway. Remember, streets that remain open helps with clearing – this support makes all the difference in ensuring we can properly open up your neighbourhood streets.
Snowbank Removal Operations Will Resume
In certain areas of the city, snowbank removal operations are expected to resume Saturday night with a focus on minor collector and residential streets within our urban core.
Once snowbank removal work is scheduled, temporary no parking signs will go up advising everyone that the work is about to begin. When and where these signs go up, parked vehicles must be removed from the roadway and failure to do-so will result in a ticket and tow to a nearby street. No one is exempt from these restrictions, including those with an on-street parking permit.
Next Steps
We are paying close attention to Sunday’s forecast, with 5 to 10 centimetres of snow expected. Through the weekend, teams will work on removing snowbanks while supervisors will be out monitoring the transportation network. The Roads and Parking Services team will be ready to respond when, and if, conditions change.
I will provide an update tomorrow on snow removal efforts and our operational response based on what is in the forecast.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
January 26th, 2023
Who has been hard at work clearing snow in Ottawa? The Roads and Parking Services team, that’s who! This storm packed a punch and crews have been busy. Our night shift has been working nonstop to stay ahead of this storm and, this morning, the day shift took over right where they left off.
Forecast and Conditions
A Snowfall Warning remains in effect for the City of Ottawa as winter storm conditions continue today.
As of 7am this morning, the City had already received 22 centimetres of snow since the storm began yesterday afternoon. As expected, snow began to fall yesterday afternoon and intensified during the evening hours and overnight, quickly covering the transportation network - and it’s still falling. The snow will continue this morning with a few more centimetres anticipated before tapering off to flurries by early afternoon.
Travel conditions remain challenging today; if you must be out, please adjust to the conditions of our sidewalks, roads and winter cycling network.
Once this system moves out of the region, Ottawa will drop into a deep freeze. Overnight lows are likely to push into the minus teens for temperatures and mid-minus 20s for wind chill values.
Our Response
Our priority will continue to be on clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, and the winter cycling network. Given the amount of snowfall accumulation, crews are expected to start clearing residential streets this morning and will continue this work into the evening hours.
The snow is dry and light, but there is a lot of it - which means operations will take time. There will be problem spots at bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands and corners, but the Roads and Parking Services team are hard at work and will get the job done.
Winter Weather Parking Ban is in Effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until 7 pm tonight. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Fun Facts about Winter Operations
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast and the transportation network, and I will continue to provide you with updates regarding our operational response.
We would like to thank everyone for your ongoing patience and support.
Who has been hard at work clearing snow in Ottawa? The Roads and Parking Services team, that’s who! This storm packed a punch and crews have been busy. Our night shift has been working nonstop to stay ahead of this storm and, this morning, the day shift took over right where they left off.
Forecast and Conditions
A Snowfall Warning remains in effect for the City of Ottawa as winter storm conditions continue today.
As of 7am this morning, the City had already received 22 centimetres of snow since the storm began yesterday afternoon. As expected, snow began to fall yesterday afternoon and intensified during the evening hours and overnight, quickly covering the transportation network - and it’s still falling. The snow will continue this morning with a few more centimetres anticipated before tapering off to flurries by early afternoon.
Travel conditions remain challenging today; if you must be out, please adjust to the conditions of our sidewalks, roads and winter cycling network.
Once this system moves out of the region, Ottawa will drop into a deep freeze. Overnight lows are likely to push into the minus teens for temperatures and mid-minus 20s for wind chill values.
Our Response
Our priority will continue to be on clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, and the winter cycling network. Given the amount of snowfall accumulation, crews are expected to start clearing residential streets this morning and will continue this work into the evening hours.
The snow is dry and light, but there is a lot of it - which means operations will take time. There will be problem spots at bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands and corners, but the Roads and Parking Services team are hard at work and will get the job done.
Winter Weather Parking Ban is in Effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until 7 pm tonight. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Fun Facts about Winter Operations
- During a major winter event like today’s, all available resources are deployed:
- Over 500 pieces of winter equipment and operators (includes city-owned, leased and contracted)
- Ottawa has received over 150 centimetres of snow so far this 2022/2023 winter season (not including this winter event)
- During a winter event, our crews clear and treat:
- Over 13,000 lane kilometres of roadway, including 137 kilometres of Transitway - a distance further than driving from Halifax to Vancouver AND BACK in a snow storm
- 2,510 kilometres of sidewalks (which equals a trip from City Hall to Regina)
- 54 kilometres of the winter cycling network
- 17 Park & Rides, with approximately 8,628 parking spaces
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast and the transportation network, and I will continue to provide you with updates regarding our operational response.
We would like to thank everyone for your ongoing patience and support.
January 25th, 2023
It’s Wednesday Ottawa, and right on schedule, another winter storm is coming to the Capital thanks to a Texas low. Environment Canada has issued a Snowfall Warning for the region indicating significant snowfall beginning late this afternoon that will continue into Thursday. The silver lining you ask? It will be over before the weekend!
Forecast and Conditions
Starting late Wednesday afternoon and running right through to Thursday afternoon, this next system is expected to bring between 15 to 20 centimetres of snowfall. Most of the snow accumulation will be packed into Wednesday evening and overnight – with snow falling at a rate of approximately 2 to 3 centimetres per hour. During the most intense snowfall period, winds of 40 to 60 kilometres per hour are possible.
The very cold air surrounding this snow is expected to make it light and dry, instead of heavy and wet, and the blowing snow will reduce visibility, resulting in difficult travel conditions. We encourage those who can, to plan ahead today by completing their errands and to find off-street parking as travel should be limited unless it is essential. If you are travelling, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our Response
All available resources will be deployed, and working around the clock. For the past two weeks, crews that have been working steady on snow removal operations have made great progress across the city. However, resources have been reallocated and are ready to respond to this storm. Snow removal operations will resume once our storm response has ended and residential streets within our urban core that have not yet been completed, will be prioritized.
Our supervisors are monitoring conditions today and will continue into the late evening and overnight. During the evening and overnight hours, our focus will be on clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, and the winter cycling network.
A Daytime Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Thursday, January 26 from 10am to 7pm. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the weather over the next 36 hours and adjust our response accordingly.
Support from our residents is crucial and we appreciate your patience. We are committed to keeping you informed as we respond to this event and will provide another update tomorrow morning.
Stay safe and travel with care.
It’s Wednesday Ottawa, and right on schedule, another winter storm is coming to the Capital thanks to a Texas low. Environment Canada has issued a Snowfall Warning for the region indicating significant snowfall beginning late this afternoon that will continue into Thursday. The silver lining you ask? It will be over before the weekend!
Forecast and Conditions
Starting late Wednesday afternoon and running right through to Thursday afternoon, this next system is expected to bring between 15 to 20 centimetres of snowfall. Most of the snow accumulation will be packed into Wednesday evening and overnight – with snow falling at a rate of approximately 2 to 3 centimetres per hour. During the most intense snowfall period, winds of 40 to 60 kilometres per hour are possible.
The very cold air surrounding this snow is expected to make it light and dry, instead of heavy and wet, and the blowing snow will reduce visibility, resulting in difficult travel conditions. We encourage those who can, to plan ahead today by completing their errands and to find off-street parking as travel should be limited unless it is essential. If you are travelling, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our Response
All available resources will be deployed, and working around the clock. For the past two weeks, crews that have been working steady on snow removal operations have made great progress across the city. However, resources have been reallocated and are ready to respond to this storm. Snow removal operations will resume once our storm response has ended and residential streets within our urban core that have not yet been completed, will be prioritized.
Our supervisors are monitoring conditions today and will continue into the late evening and overnight. During the evening and overnight hours, our focus will be on clearing and treating sidewalks, priority roads, and the winter cycling network.
A Daytime Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Thursday, January 26 from 10am to 7pm. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
- Safety is a priority for our team, and we will be out in full force working to keep Ottawa’s sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network treated and clear. Conditions are messy and changing, and those who are out should drive to the conditions of the road.
- Flashing blue lights means we are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind our vehicles – please never pass our vehicles.
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. We are on the job and our efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- Please place garbage, recycling, and organic collection bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks. Residents can sign up to receive reminders and service alerts for their waste collection day by email, phone or Twitter at ottawa.ca/CollectionCalendar.
- Do you need volunteer hours? Become a Snow Angel! Support your community by helping someone you know who is elderly or has a disability, by clearing snow or ice from their driveway, steps or walkway. More information on the Snow Angel Program is available on Ottawa.ca.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the weather over the next 36 hours and adjust our response accordingly.
Support from our residents is crucial and we appreciate your patience. We are committed to keeping you informed as we respond to this event and will provide another update tomorrow morning.
Stay safe and travel with care.
January 20th, 2023
Well, the forecast held steady and with this winter weather event mostly holding true to yesterday’s forecast, this operational update won’t come as much of a surprise.
Forecast and conditions
As of 7 am this morning, 7 to 10 centimetres of snow had fallen in parts of Ottawa and now, the bulk of the accumulation appears to be in our rear view mirror. As this winter weather event starts to make its exit, periods of light snow and flurries are possible in certain parts of the City throughout the day. The event is expected to come to an end by early this evening, possibly closing off the day with another couple of centimetres of snow.
Something worth noting about today’s forecast, is the surface temperature of our transportation network. This afternoon, the surface of our sidewalks, roads, and winter cycling network may reach above freezing level. On one hand, this may help lessen the total levels of accumulation as snow could melt on contact. On the other, however, water from this melt may freeze as the temperature is expected to drop below freezing later this evening, creating icy conditions as we head into the overnight hours.
As always, we would like to remind everyone to walk, drive, and cycle with care as we travel our way into the weekend. Icy conditions cannot always be easily seen and may come as a surprise. So please, adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our Response
Last night teams worked on our sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network, efforts that will continue throughout this morning and throughout the day. We are expecting to reach residential neighbourhoods by mid-morning today to clear and treat streets, please try and find off-street parking where possible to ensure that we have enough space to work.
The last leg of this event will begin later this evening once residential neighbourhoods have been cleared and treated, at which point teams will then start working on addressing problem spots such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, islands, corners, and cul de sacs.
Snowbank Removal Operations Will Resume
Snowbank removal operations are expected to resume Saturday evening, and throughout the day tomorrow crews will be putting signs up in areas where work is scheduled to begin. Efforts will continue in our business districts and on our collectors and arterial roads, including some residential neighbourhoods within our urban area.
Please keep an eye out for temporary no parking signs. Once snowbank removal work is scheduled, signs will go up advising everyone that the work is about to begin. When and where these signs go up, parked vehicles must be removed from the roadway and failure to do-so will result in a ticket and tow to a nearby streets. No one is exempt from these restrictions, including those with an on-street parking permit.
Resident Support is Needed
Next Steps
We are paying close attention to Sunday’s forecast, as up to 5 centimetres of snow is possible for the City through the overnight hours into Monday morning. Through the weekend, teams will work on removing snowbanks while Supervisors will be out monitoring the transportation network, and teams will be ready to respond to the changing conditions.
Unless conditions warrant the need for our response to change, this will serve as this weekend’s operational update.
Thank you and have a safe weekend.
Well, the forecast held steady and with this winter weather event mostly holding true to yesterday’s forecast, this operational update won’t come as much of a surprise.
Forecast and conditions
As of 7 am this morning, 7 to 10 centimetres of snow had fallen in parts of Ottawa and now, the bulk of the accumulation appears to be in our rear view mirror. As this winter weather event starts to make its exit, periods of light snow and flurries are possible in certain parts of the City throughout the day. The event is expected to come to an end by early this evening, possibly closing off the day with another couple of centimetres of snow.
Something worth noting about today’s forecast, is the surface temperature of our transportation network. This afternoon, the surface of our sidewalks, roads, and winter cycling network may reach above freezing level. On one hand, this may help lessen the total levels of accumulation as snow could melt on contact. On the other, however, water from this melt may freeze as the temperature is expected to drop below freezing later this evening, creating icy conditions as we head into the overnight hours.
As always, we would like to remind everyone to walk, drive, and cycle with care as we travel our way into the weekend. Icy conditions cannot always be easily seen and may come as a surprise. So please, adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our Response
Last night teams worked on our sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network, efforts that will continue throughout this morning and throughout the day. We are expecting to reach residential neighbourhoods by mid-morning today to clear and treat streets, please try and find off-street parking where possible to ensure that we have enough space to work.
The last leg of this event will begin later this evening once residential neighbourhoods have been cleared and treated, at which point teams will then start working on addressing problem spots such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, islands, corners, and cul de sacs.
Snowbank Removal Operations Will Resume
Snowbank removal operations are expected to resume Saturday evening, and throughout the day tomorrow crews will be putting signs up in areas where work is scheduled to begin. Efforts will continue in our business districts and on our collectors and arterial roads, including some residential neighbourhoods within our urban area.
Please keep an eye out for temporary no parking signs. Once snowbank removal work is scheduled, signs will go up advising everyone that the work is about to begin. When and where these signs go up, parked vehicles must be removed from the roadway and failure to do-so will result in a ticket and tow to a nearby streets. No one is exempt from these restrictions, including those with an on-street parking permit.
Resident Support is Needed
- Be a hydrant hero! If you are out this weekend, please consider shovelling around your local fire hydrant. Remember that Ottawa Fire Services requires an area of 1.5 metres around the hydrant to gain access during a fire. For more information, please visit Ottawa.ca.
- If today is your waste collection day, please place your bins in your driveway – not on sidewalks or on the roadway, and especially away from snowbanks.
- Yes, our snowbank removal operations are very exciting to watch! But remember, the safest place to observe is always from far. Always wave to our operators from a safe distance and never come close to our working vehicles.
Next Steps
We are paying close attention to Sunday’s forecast, as up to 5 centimetres of snow is possible for the City through the overnight hours into Monday morning. Through the weekend, teams will work on removing snowbanks while Supervisors will be out monitoring the transportation network, and teams will be ready to respond to the changing conditions.
Unless conditions warrant the need for our response to change, this will serve as this weekend’s operational update.
Thank you and have a safe weekend.
January 19th, 2023
Like clockwork, it appears that Mother Nature is going to be sending us a winter weather event just in time for the weekend. The good news is that snow is the only type of precipitation in the forecast, and so we are hoping for a relatively straight forward event.
Forecast and Conditions
An intense start is expected, with snow beginning early this evening along with possible accumulation rates reaching 1 to 2 centimetres an hour. This intensity is expected to continue through to midnight, possibly bringing anywhere from 5 to 10 centimetres of snow before Friday’s pre-dawn hours. While accumulation rates are set to slow down overnight, light snow is expected to continue into Friday morning.
Environment Canada has issued a Weather advisory for the City. Because of this evening’s forecasted accumulation rates and with wind gusts possibly reaching 40 kilometres an hour during the same period, visibility may at times be reduced. Please prepare yourselves for traveling conditions to quickly change, maybe even without notice. If you are traveling this evening, take your time and adjust your speed in accordance to the weather and to the conditions of our traveling network.
Our Response
Today, snow removal operations will continue before most of these efforts shift to responding to this upcoming event. At the start of accumulation, work will begin by clearing priority sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Teams will continue working overnight, through shift change, and into tomorrow.
At this time, we have decided not to call a Winter Weather Parking Ban. However, there is a chance that we will need to work in residential neighbourhoods tomorrow and so we are asking anyone who can to please try and find off-street parking wherever possible. Ask a friend or a neighbour if you can share their laneway. Remember that roads that are free from obstructions while we work allows us to clear closer to the curb which in turn, helps create a broader opening for our emergency vehicles.
Next Steps
While our focus for this evening and Friday may be on responding to the changing conditions, our snow removal efforts will resume once we are done responding to this event. Our next update will be shared tomorrow morning and will include insight on the status of our response and snow removal efforts that will be taking place over the weekend.
Stay tuned and be safe!
Like clockwork, it appears that Mother Nature is going to be sending us a winter weather event just in time for the weekend. The good news is that snow is the only type of precipitation in the forecast, and so we are hoping for a relatively straight forward event.
Forecast and Conditions
An intense start is expected, with snow beginning early this evening along with possible accumulation rates reaching 1 to 2 centimetres an hour. This intensity is expected to continue through to midnight, possibly bringing anywhere from 5 to 10 centimetres of snow before Friday’s pre-dawn hours. While accumulation rates are set to slow down overnight, light snow is expected to continue into Friday morning.
Environment Canada has issued a Weather advisory for the City. Because of this evening’s forecasted accumulation rates and with wind gusts possibly reaching 40 kilometres an hour during the same period, visibility may at times be reduced. Please prepare yourselves for traveling conditions to quickly change, maybe even without notice. If you are traveling this evening, take your time and adjust your speed in accordance to the weather and to the conditions of our traveling network.
Our Response
Today, snow removal operations will continue before most of these efforts shift to responding to this upcoming event. At the start of accumulation, work will begin by clearing priority sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Teams will continue working overnight, through shift change, and into tomorrow.
At this time, we have decided not to call a Winter Weather Parking Ban. However, there is a chance that we will need to work in residential neighbourhoods tomorrow and so we are asking anyone who can to please try and find off-street parking wherever possible. Ask a friend or a neighbour if you can share their laneway. Remember that roads that are free from obstructions while we work allows us to clear closer to the curb which in turn, helps create a broader opening for our emergency vehicles.
Next Steps
While our focus for this evening and Friday may be on responding to the changing conditions, our snow removal efforts will resume once we are done responding to this event. Our next update will be shared tomorrow morning and will include insight on the status of our response and snow removal efforts that will be taking place over the weekend.
Stay tuned and be safe!
January 18th, 2023
It seems that unpredictability continues to be the theme for this winter season as this morning, the City of Ottawa woke up to a freezing rain warning from Environment Canada. While the warning may now have ended, conditions this morning may not be ideal.
Forecast and Conditions
Yesterday afternoon, precipitations began in the south as periods of freezing drizzle and light freezing rain, as the north had its start with snow. The core, however got a combination of the two. Overnight, this wintery mix changed to periods of light freezing rain mixed with ice pellets that continued throughout this morning’s early hours.
While the bulk of the precipitations are behind us, please prepare yourselves for this morning’s commute as periods of freezing drizzle and light snow remain in the forecast. The temperature is expected to slowly rise this morning, causing fog patches in some areas of the city. With the recent precipitations and this morning’s forecast, some ice buildup on our surfaces is highly possible.
Please exercise caution while walking, driving or cycling today as conditions on sections of our network that have yet to be treated are expected to be slippery. If you can, please leave earlier than planned and adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our Response
While the weather may have come as a surprise, our teams – as always – were ready. At the start of precipitations, Roads and Parking Services began treating priority sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Efforts continued overnight, and crews will work throughout the day before their focus turns to treating residential neighbourhoods.
Our focus at the moment is responding to current conditions, while snow removal operations continue in parallel on arterial and collector roads and within our business districts. A more detailed update on the status of these operations will follow later this week.
Next Steps
We will continue responding to the conditions while keeping a close eye on the forecast. We are expecting another winter weather event to reach Ottawa tomorrow evening, possibly bringing 5 to 10 centimetres of snow by Friday. Should this hold steady, we will adjust our response as needed and provide you with another update on the event tomorrow.
In the meantime, please travel with care.
It seems that unpredictability continues to be the theme for this winter season as this morning, the City of Ottawa woke up to a freezing rain warning from Environment Canada. While the warning may now have ended, conditions this morning may not be ideal.
Forecast and Conditions
Yesterday afternoon, precipitations began in the south as periods of freezing drizzle and light freezing rain, as the north had its start with snow. The core, however got a combination of the two. Overnight, this wintery mix changed to periods of light freezing rain mixed with ice pellets that continued throughout this morning’s early hours.
While the bulk of the precipitations are behind us, please prepare yourselves for this morning’s commute as periods of freezing drizzle and light snow remain in the forecast. The temperature is expected to slowly rise this morning, causing fog patches in some areas of the city. With the recent precipitations and this morning’s forecast, some ice buildup on our surfaces is highly possible.
Please exercise caution while walking, driving or cycling today as conditions on sections of our network that have yet to be treated are expected to be slippery. If you can, please leave earlier than planned and adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our Response
While the weather may have come as a surprise, our teams – as always – were ready. At the start of precipitations, Roads and Parking Services began treating priority sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Efforts continued overnight, and crews will work throughout the day before their focus turns to treating residential neighbourhoods.
Our focus at the moment is responding to current conditions, while snow removal operations continue in parallel on arterial and collector roads and within our business districts. A more detailed update on the status of these operations will follow later this week.
Next Steps
We will continue responding to the conditions while keeping a close eye on the forecast. We are expecting another winter weather event to reach Ottawa tomorrow evening, possibly bringing 5 to 10 centimetres of snow by Friday. Should this hold steady, we will adjust our response as needed and provide you with another update on the event tomorrow.
In the meantime, please travel with care.
January 14th, 2023
The sun has come out, Ottawa! It has been an active few days in the Capital and we have made it out the other side. With the sun comes much colder temperatures than we have experienced this winter, but conditions are stable and the Roads and Parking Services team can focus on clean up efforts.
Over the weekend, crews will continue to clear sidewalks, touch up arterial roads and work in residential areas to clean up and treat icy conditions. They will also focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as crosswalks, intersections, bus stops, corners and islands.
The drop in temperature may have created icy conditions in some areas - residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks.
Snow Removal Activities Begin Sunday Night
With the 24 centimetres of snow that just blanketed the city, the Roads and Parking Services team is preparing for snow removal operations throughout the City. The focus will be where snow banks have significantly increased on our arterial roads and collectors, business districts, narrow streets as well as some cul de sacs and dead ends where the snow has piled up.
Snow removal is a planned event that requires us to physically remove snow from the side of the road and transport it to one of our snow storage facilities. Snow removal is different than snow clearing, which occurs as snow is falling or immediately after a snowfall, to move the snow from the roadway to the side of the road or to the City’s right of way.
In some communities, we are able to cast the snow from the roadway onto the City’s right of way and store it there. This is a safe operation which allows us to open roads without hauling snow away. Residents will know casting is taking place when they see the large blowers blowing snow off roads and sidewalks and onto City greenspace. Following our snow removal operations, a sidewalk machine is deployed to clear and treat the sidewalks in the area to ensure it remains safe for travel.
Over the weekend and ahead of snow removal operations, residents can expect to see our teams out in the community placing temporary ‘No Parking’ signs in snowbanks along the side of the roadway to prepare for snow removal. Snow removal operations will begin Sunday evening on our arterial and collector roads and within our business districts. Residents will know it is taking place when they see temporary no parking signage in their community, and/or line-ups of large trucks with snow being blown into the boxes.
While we are engaged in snow removal activities, residents are asked to observe the posted signage and to remove their vehicles from the roadway as per the signage - this includes vehicles with residential parking permits. Failing to do so may result in your vehicle being towed. Towed vehicles are relocated to an adjacent street where snow removal is not scheduled that day or has already been completed. Residents may call 3-1-1 for assistance in locating their vehicle.
While the operations are really exciting to watch, we do ask that all residents, and especially children, give the vehicles space to do their work. Please stay a safe distance back.
Next Steps
This has been a busy time for the Roads and Parking Services team and the work continues to ensure the transportation network keeps Ottawa moving.
Thank you for continuing to support our winter operations.
The sun has come out, Ottawa! It has been an active few days in the Capital and we have made it out the other side. With the sun comes much colder temperatures than we have experienced this winter, but conditions are stable and the Roads and Parking Services team can focus on clean up efforts.
Over the weekend, crews will continue to clear sidewalks, touch up arterial roads and work in residential areas to clean up and treat icy conditions. They will also focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as crosswalks, intersections, bus stops, corners and islands.
The drop in temperature may have created icy conditions in some areas - residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks.
Snow Removal Activities Begin Sunday Night
With the 24 centimetres of snow that just blanketed the city, the Roads and Parking Services team is preparing for snow removal operations throughout the City. The focus will be where snow banks have significantly increased on our arterial roads and collectors, business districts, narrow streets as well as some cul de sacs and dead ends where the snow has piled up.
Snow removal is a planned event that requires us to physically remove snow from the side of the road and transport it to one of our snow storage facilities. Snow removal is different than snow clearing, which occurs as snow is falling or immediately after a snowfall, to move the snow from the roadway to the side of the road or to the City’s right of way.
In some communities, we are able to cast the snow from the roadway onto the City’s right of way and store it there. This is a safe operation which allows us to open roads without hauling snow away. Residents will know casting is taking place when they see the large blowers blowing snow off roads and sidewalks and onto City greenspace. Following our snow removal operations, a sidewalk machine is deployed to clear and treat the sidewalks in the area to ensure it remains safe for travel.
Over the weekend and ahead of snow removal operations, residents can expect to see our teams out in the community placing temporary ‘No Parking’ signs in snowbanks along the side of the roadway to prepare for snow removal. Snow removal operations will begin Sunday evening on our arterial and collector roads and within our business districts. Residents will know it is taking place when they see temporary no parking signage in their community, and/or line-ups of large trucks with snow being blown into the boxes.
While we are engaged in snow removal activities, residents are asked to observe the posted signage and to remove their vehicles from the roadway as per the signage - this includes vehicles with residential parking permits. Failing to do so may result in your vehicle being towed. Towed vehicles are relocated to an adjacent street where snow removal is not scheduled that day or has already been completed. Residents may call 3-1-1 for assistance in locating their vehicle.
While the operations are really exciting to watch, we do ask that all residents, and especially children, give the vehicles space to do their work. Please stay a safe distance back.
Next Steps
This has been a busy time for the Roads and Parking Services team and the work continues to ensure the transportation network keeps Ottawa moving.
Thank you for continuing to support our winter operations.
January 13th, 2023
It looks like Mother Nature has taken her foot off the gas and bringing this storm to an end. We can’t say the same about the Roads and Parking Services team, they will keep going until the city has been cleaned up!
Forecast and Conditions
Environment Canada has ended the Winter Storm Warning for the City of Ottawa.
As of 5pm, Ottawa had accumulated 24 centimetres of snow since it all began on Wednesday, before finally clearing out early this evening. Through the day, winds were at 30 kilometres per hour, gusting to 50, and the temperature fell to minus 5 degrees this afternoon. Winds are expected to die down to 20 kilometres per hour near midnight and the temperature will drop to minus 9 degrees.
Snow accumulation, blowing snow and the drop in temperature could create difficult travel conditions. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks.
Our Response
All resources are deployed, and the focus remains on clearing and treating our sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Crews are also expected to continue working in the residential neighbourhoods this evening to finish clearing streets.
The persistent snowfall and drifting snow are making the cleanup challenging - we know it will take longer than usual, but our crews are hard at work.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Lifted
The Winter Weather Parking Ban was lifted at 7 pm. Please sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts to stay up to date on upcoming winter parking restrictions.
You can continue supporting our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour if you can share their laneway. Remember, streets that remain open helps with clearing – this support makes all the difference in ensuring we can properly open up your neighbourhood streets.
Next Steps
City staff and crews have been on the job around the clock, and we would like to acknowledge their hard work, perseverance and dedication. They keep our city moving and it is appreciated.
Looking ahead, we will continue working in residential areas to clean up and treat icy conditions as well as cleaning up any problem areas such as crosswalks, intersections, bus stops, corners and islands.
We remain committed to keeping you informed as we progress through the event and will provide another update tomorrow.
We appreciate your patience, understanding and continued support of our winter operations.
It looks like Mother Nature has taken her foot off the gas and bringing this storm to an end. We can’t say the same about the Roads and Parking Services team, they will keep going until the city has been cleaned up!
Forecast and Conditions
Environment Canada has ended the Winter Storm Warning for the City of Ottawa.
As of 5pm, Ottawa had accumulated 24 centimetres of snow since it all began on Wednesday, before finally clearing out early this evening. Through the day, winds were at 30 kilometres per hour, gusting to 50, and the temperature fell to minus 5 degrees this afternoon. Winds are expected to die down to 20 kilometres per hour near midnight and the temperature will drop to minus 9 degrees.
Snow accumulation, blowing snow and the drop in temperature could create difficult travel conditions. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks.
Our Response
All resources are deployed, and the focus remains on clearing and treating our sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Crews are also expected to continue working in the residential neighbourhoods this evening to finish clearing streets.
The persistent snowfall and drifting snow are making the cleanup challenging - we know it will take longer than usual, but our crews are hard at work.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Lifted
The Winter Weather Parking Ban was lifted at 7 pm. Please sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts to stay up to date on upcoming winter parking restrictions.
You can continue supporting our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour if you can share their laneway. Remember, streets that remain open helps with clearing – this support makes all the difference in ensuring we can properly open up your neighbourhood streets.
Next Steps
City staff and crews have been on the job around the clock, and we would like to acknowledge their hard work, perseverance and dedication. They keep our city moving and it is appreciated.
Looking ahead, we will continue working in residential areas to clean up and treat icy conditions as well as cleaning up any problem areas such as crosswalks, intersections, bus stops, corners and islands.
We remain committed to keeping you informed as we progress through the event and will provide another update tomorrow.
We appreciate your patience, understanding and continued support of our winter operations.
January 13th, 2023
Mother Nature has been relentless, but city crews are up to the challenge! They haven’t stopped since this storm began, and been at it all night, with no plans on slowing down until this system has moved out of the city.
Forecast and Conditions
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the City of Ottawa as winter storm conditions continue today.
As of 9am this morning, the City had already received 17 centimetres of snow since the storm began. The city did experience some light freezing drizzle and freezing rain during the evening hours which transitioned over to snow around 10pm. Although there were lulls overnight, the storm intensified in the early morning hours covering much of the transportation network that had already been treated and cleared by our night shift. We expect another intense pocket of snow this morning with another 5 to 10 centimetres anticipated before it tapers off later this afternoon. Hourly accumulation of 1 to 2 centimetres are possible and with wind gusts reaching 40 to 60 kilometres per hour, visibility will be near zero.
Travel conditions today will be challenging, if you must be out, please adjust to the conditions of our sidewalks, roads and winter cycling network.
Our Response
Our priority will continue to be on clearing and treating priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. Given the amount of snowfall accumulation, crews are expected to start moving into residential neighbourhoods and streets this morning, and will continue their cleanup into the evening hours.
The snow is wet and heavy, and it will take time to get through it, but rest assured, the Roads and Parking Services team are hard at work.
Winter Weather Parking Ban is in Effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until 7 pm tonight. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast and the transportation network, and I will continue to provide you with updates regarding our operational response.
We would like to thank everyone for your ongoing patience and support.
Mother Nature has been relentless, but city crews are up to the challenge! They haven’t stopped since this storm began, and been at it all night, with no plans on slowing down until this system has moved out of the city.
Forecast and Conditions
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the City of Ottawa as winter storm conditions continue today.
As of 9am this morning, the City had already received 17 centimetres of snow since the storm began. The city did experience some light freezing drizzle and freezing rain during the evening hours which transitioned over to snow around 10pm. Although there were lulls overnight, the storm intensified in the early morning hours covering much of the transportation network that had already been treated and cleared by our night shift. We expect another intense pocket of snow this morning with another 5 to 10 centimetres anticipated before it tapers off later this afternoon. Hourly accumulation of 1 to 2 centimetres are possible and with wind gusts reaching 40 to 60 kilometres per hour, visibility will be near zero.
Travel conditions today will be challenging, if you must be out, please adjust to the conditions of our sidewalks, roads and winter cycling network.
Our Response
Our priority will continue to be on clearing and treating priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. Given the amount of snowfall accumulation, crews are expected to start moving into residential neighbourhoods and streets this morning, and will continue their cleanup into the evening hours.
The snow is wet and heavy, and it will take time to get through it, but rest assured, the Roads and Parking Services team are hard at work.
Winter Weather Parking Ban is in Effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect until 7 pm tonight. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Next Steps
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast and the transportation network, and I will continue to provide you with updates regarding our operational response.
We would like to thank everyone for your ongoing patience and support.
January 12th, 2023
Environment Canada has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the City of Ottawa with significant snowfall beginning tonight. Residents woke up to few centimetres of accumulation and crews were deployed in the early hours this morning. Given this storm is a culmination of two systems colliding, there is still uncertainty on how the storm will track, making it difficult to predict snowfall amounts. However, models are indicating 20 to 30 centimetres of snow, possibly more, in the Ottawa region.
Forecast and Conditions
Today, up to 5 centimetres of snow is expected. As reported yesterday, the core of this event is still slated for this evening and overnight into Friday morning with 10 to 15 centimetres of snow expected through the overnight hours. Accumulation amounts will spike beyond 8pm, where hourly rates of 1 to 2 centimetres are likely. Heading into Friday we are expecting between 5 to 10 centimetres of snow that will continue until the late morning or early afternoon. Winds late Thursday evening and into Friday morning are expected with peak gusts around 40 to 60 kilometres per hour possible.
Snow will be heavy with rapid accumulation, and at times, visibility will be reduced to near zero, resulting in difficult travel conditions. We encourage those who can, to plan ahead today by completing their errands and to find off-street parking as travel over the next 36 hours should be limited unless it is essential. If you are travelling, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our Response
All available resources have been deployed and will be working around the clock; because of the duration and intensity of this storm, operations will take longer than usual to complete.
Our supervisors will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day today and during the late evening and overnight. Our focus will be on clearing and treating priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. Given the amount of precipitation expected, some residents may find it challenging to get out of their communities. We anticipate crews will transition to the residential neighbourhoods tomorrow morning.
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Friday, January 13 from 10am to 7pm. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
Next Steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network over the next 36 hours. Conditions will make things difficult to navigate - we will adapt and try to stay ahead of this winter storm. Support from our residents is crucial as we respond to this event.
We are committed to keeping you informed as we progress through the event and will provide another update tomorrow morning.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as this storm unfolds.
Environment Canada has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the City of Ottawa with significant snowfall beginning tonight. Residents woke up to few centimetres of accumulation and crews were deployed in the early hours this morning. Given this storm is a culmination of two systems colliding, there is still uncertainty on how the storm will track, making it difficult to predict snowfall amounts. However, models are indicating 20 to 30 centimetres of snow, possibly more, in the Ottawa region.
Forecast and Conditions
Today, up to 5 centimetres of snow is expected. As reported yesterday, the core of this event is still slated for this evening and overnight into Friday morning with 10 to 15 centimetres of snow expected through the overnight hours. Accumulation amounts will spike beyond 8pm, where hourly rates of 1 to 2 centimetres are likely. Heading into Friday we are expecting between 5 to 10 centimetres of snow that will continue until the late morning or early afternoon. Winds late Thursday evening and into Friday morning are expected with peak gusts around 40 to 60 kilometres per hour possible.
Snow will be heavy with rapid accumulation, and at times, visibility will be reduced to near zero, resulting in difficult travel conditions. We encourage those who can, to plan ahead today by completing their errands and to find off-street parking as travel over the next 36 hours should be limited unless it is essential. If you are travelling, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Our Response
All available resources have been deployed and will be working around the clock; because of the duration and intensity of this storm, operations will take longer than usual to complete.
Our supervisors will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day today and during the late evening and overnight. Our focus will be on clearing and treating priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. Given the amount of precipitation expected, some residents may find it challenging to get out of their communities. We anticipate crews will transition to the residential neighbourhoods tomorrow morning.
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Friday, January 13 from 10am to 7pm. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
- Safety is a priority for our team, and we will be out in full force working to keep Ottawa’s sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network treated and clear. Conditions are messy and changing, and those who are out should drive to the conditions of the road.
- Flashing blue lights means we are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind our vehicles – please never pass our vehicles.
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. We are on the job and our efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- Please place garbage, recycling, and organic collection bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks.
Next Steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network over the next 36 hours. Conditions will make things difficult to navigate - we will adapt and try to stay ahead of this winter storm. Support from our residents is crucial as we respond to this event.
We are committed to keeping you informed as we progress through the event and will provide another update tomorrow morning.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as this storm unfolds.
January 11th, 2023
Brace yourselves Ottawa, here we go again! A winter system is headed towards the region tonight and will continue into Thursday and Friday.
Forecast and Conditions
The forecast is similar to storms we have already seen this winter in that it is unpredictable and constantly changing, making it difficult to determine timing, accumulation and type of precipitation. One thing we know for sure, the Roads and Parking Services team has been monitoring the system closely, preparing the equipment, topping up materials and are ready!
Snow is expected to start this evening and continue through until Friday evening, with the main event expected to be Thursday night and into the day Friday, but its opening act tonight and into the day tomorrow is expected to give us some accumulation, too. Through the evening and overnight hours tonight, 2 to 3 centimetres is expected with another 2 to 4 centimetres anticipated through the day Thursday. With the temperature expected to rise Thursday evening, it’s possible parts of the region could see isolated pockets of freezing rain during the mid-to-late evening hours and 10 to 15 centimetres through the overnight hours and into Friday morning. Currently, the forecast indicates an additional 5 to 10 centimetres is possible during the day Friday.
Our Response
The team is getting our equipment prepared and our salt domes filled. All available resources will be deployed to respond, and given the nature of this event, it will take some time to clean up.
Our supervisors will be monitoring conditions throughout the day today, during the late evening and overnight, and crews will be deployed as precipitation begins. As the snow continues to fall tomorrow, our focus will be on clearing and treating priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network.
What’s Next?
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to track this system and monitor temperatures over the next 48 hours because a shift in either could change accumulation amounts. However, crews will be ready to adjust to the dynamics of this storm.
We will be keeping you and the community informed with another update tomorrow morning on how the storm is progressing and what residents can expect with our response.
Travel with care.
Brace yourselves Ottawa, here we go again! A winter system is headed towards the region tonight and will continue into Thursday and Friday.
Forecast and Conditions
The forecast is similar to storms we have already seen this winter in that it is unpredictable and constantly changing, making it difficult to determine timing, accumulation and type of precipitation. One thing we know for sure, the Roads and Parking Services team has been monitoring the system closely, preparing the equipment, topping up materials and are ready!
Snow is expected to start this evening and continue through until Friday evening, with the main event expected to be Thursday night and into the day Friday, but its opening act tonight and into the day tomorrow is expected to give us some accumulation, too. Through the evening and overnight hours tonight, 2 to 3 centimetres is expected with another 2 to 4 centimetres anticipated through the day Thursday. With the temperature expected to rise Thursday evening, it’s possible parts of the region could see isolated pockets of freezing rain during the mid-to-late evening hours and 10 to 15 centimetres through the overnight hours and into Friday morning. Currently, the forecast indicates an additional 5 to 10 centimetres is possible during the day Friday.
Our Response
The team is getting our equipment prepared and our salt domes filled. All available resources will be deployed to respond, and given the nature of this event, it will take some time to clean up.
Our supervisors will be monitoring conditions throughout the day today, during the late evening and overnight, and crews will be deployed as precipitation begins. As the snow continues to fall tomorrow, our focus will be on clearing and treating priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network.
What’s Next?
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to track this system and monitor temperatures over the next 48 hours because a shift in either could change accumulation amounts. However, crews will be ready to adjust to the dynamics of this storm.
We will be keeping you and the community informed with another update tomorrow morning on how the storm is progressing and what residents can expect with our response.
Travel with care.
January 5th, 2023
This morning, residents are waking up to see that Ottawa did not get the snow that Environment Canada forecasted. Instead, most of the precipitations came down as rain and freezing rain, covering the transportation network with ice. Users of our transportation network today should travel with extra care as parts of the network that have yet to be treated are icy and will be difficult to navigate.
Forecast and Conditions
Freezing rain began last night at around 10 pm and continued overnight, accumulating on our transportation network. While the bulk of the precipitations are behind us, light freezing rain or freezing drizzle is in this morning’s forecast, possibly adding another slight accretion of ice onto our network. With freezing drizzle continuing through to this afternoon, precipitations are expected to come to an end as the temperature is set to rise to just above the freezing mark. There is a chance that this afternoon’s precipitation will transition to scattered flurries, which are expected to continue through the evening and overnight.
Surface conditions on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network could be icy and slippery. If you are out travelling, please adjust to the conditions of the transportation network. Take your time, leave early and always give yourself plenty of extra space to stop.
Our Response
Teams were deployed last night and began treating priority sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Working through the overnight hours and into this morning, staff continued treating the priority network and will start to reach residential neighbourhoods through the morning hours. Once the residential network is complete, efforts will shift to addressing problem spots such as bus stops, intersections, corners, and crosswalks.
Next Steps
Looking ahead at this week, we are seeing some light snow in tomorrow’s forecast, with the possibility of mixed precipitations. At this time, precipitation levels are low but as always, we are ready to respond to the conditions as needed.
Unless the forecast changes considerably, this will be our final update of the week.
Thanking you all for your continued support of our Winter Operations.
This morning, residents are waking up to see that Ottawa did not get the snow that Environment Canada forecasted. Instead, most of the precipitations came down as rain and freezing rain, covering the transportation network with ice. Users of our transportation network today should travel with extra care as parts of the network that have yet to be treated are icy and will be difficult to navigate.
Forecast and Conditions
Freezing rain began last night at around 10 pm and continued overnight, accumulating on our transportation network. While the bulk of the precipitations are behind us, light freezing rain or freezing drizzle is in this morning’s forecast, possibly adding another slight accretion of ice onto our network. With freezing drizzle continuing through to this afternoon, precipitations are expected to come to an end as the temperature is set to rise to just above the freezing mark. There is a chance that this afternoon’s precipitation will transition to scattered flurries, which are expected to continue through the evening and overnight.
Surface conditions on sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network could be icy and slippery. If you are out travelling, please adjust to the conditions of the transportation network. Take your time, leave early and always give yourself plenty of extra space to stop.
Our Response
Teams were deployed last night and began treating priority sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. Working through the overnight hours and into this morning, staff continued treating the priority network and will start to reach residential neighbourhoods through the morning hours. Once the residential network is complete, efforts will shift to addressing problem spots such as bus stops, intersections, corners, and crosswalks.
Next Steps
Looking ahead at this week, we are seeing some light snow in tomorrow’s forecast, with the possibility of mixed precipitations. At this time, precipitation levels are low but as always, we are ready to respond to the conditions as needed.
Unless the forecast changes considerably, this will be our final update of the week.
Thanking you all for your continued support of our Winter Operations.
January 4th, 2023
Roads and Parking Services has been monitoring the forecast for the better part of the week, and it appears that the first winter weather event of the year is on its way. With wintery mix in the forecast, the next 36 hours may pose some challenges for our travelling network.
Surface conditions on our sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network may become wet, icy, or covered with snow – perhaps even all at the same time. If you are out travelling, please give yourself extra space to stop and adjust to the conditions of the network.
Forecast and Conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Winter Weather Travel Advisory for Ottawa and a Freezing Rain Warning for those in the south of the City. Rain, snow, freezing rain and ice pellets are all in the forecast and what falls – including how much – will depend on the temperature at the time of the precipitations. The forecast has been changing and remains very fluid, making this event very difficult to predict.
This morning the event began with freezing drizzle through certain parts of the City. As the temperature rose to just above freezing by mid-morning, precipitations changed to rain, and scattered showers persisted and will continue through the afternoon. Through the evening hours, wind gusts of 30 to 50 kilometres an hour are in the forecast along with varying precipitations, possibly bringing a mix of rain, freezing rain, ice pellets and snow through the overnight hours. While Environment Canada is still forecasting a total accumulation of 5 to 10 centimetres of snow mixed with ice pellets before Thursday morning, the near-freezing temperature is creating great uncertainty around this amount as the type of precipitation could quickly change to either rain, freezing rain or ice pellets. Periods of light snow will linger through Thursday, and any additional accumulations are expected to be minor.
Our Response
The forecast has not only been changing but has been changing quickly. We will continue to keep a close eye on the forecast and Supervisors will be out monitoring the network as the event unfolds. Teams – including staff and equipment – are ready and will respond to the fluctuating conditions.
As the exact path of this event – including levels and amounts of precipitations remain uncertain – we have decided NOT to call a Winter Weather Parking Ban. However, we encourage everyone who has access to off street parking to remove their vehicle from the road.
While this operational update is reporting on the current forecast, please remember that this event remains fluid and could quickly change. We will be in touch as the event continues but it is likely that things will change before then. In the interim, we encourage everyone to monitor their local forecast for the most up-to-date weather information.
Roads and Parking Services has been monitoring the forecast for the better part of the week, and it appears that the first winter weather event of the year is on its way. With wintery mix in the forecast, the next 36 hours may pose some challenges for our travelling network.
Surface conditions on our sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network may become wet, icy, or covered with snow – perhaps even all at the same time. If you are out travelling, please give yourself extra space to stop and adjust to the conditions of the network.
Forecast and Conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Winter Weather Travel Advisory for Ottawa and a Freezing Rain Warning for those in the south of the City. Rain, snow, freezing rain and ice pellets are all in the forecast and what falls – including how much – will depend on the temperature at the time of the precipitations. The forecast has been changing and remains very fluid, making this event very difficult to predict.
This morning the event began with freezing drizzle through certain parts of the City. As the temperature rose to just above freezing by mid-morning, precipitations changed to rain, and scattered showers persisted and will continue through the afternoon. Through the evening hours, wind gusts of 30 to 50 kilometres an hour are in the forecast along with varying precipitations, possibly bringing a mix of rain, freezing rain, ice pellets and snow through the overnight hours. While Environment Canada is still forecasting a total accumulation of 5 to 10 centimetres of snow mixed with ice pellets before Thursday morning, the near-freezing temperature is creating great uncertainty around this amount as the type of precipitation could quickly change to either rain, freezing rain or ice pellets. Periods of light snow will linger through Thursday, and any additional accumulations are expected to be minor.
Our Response
The forecast has not only been changing but has been changing quickly. We will continue to keep a close eye on the forecast and Supervisors will be out monitoring the network as the event unfolds. Teams – including staff and equipment – are ready and will respond to the fluctuating conditions.
As the exact path of this event – including levels and amounts of precipitations remain uncertain – we have decided NOT to call a Winter Weather Parking Ban. However, we encourage everyone who has access to off street parking to remove their vehicle from the road.
While this operational update is reporting on the current forecast, please remember that this event remains fluid and could quickly change. We will be in touch as the event continues but it is likely that things will change before then. In the interim, we encourage everyone to monitor their local forecast for the most up-to-date weather information.
December 30th, 2022
Roads and Parking Services has been getting ready for a spring-like event, merely a few short days before ringing in the new year. With rain in the forecast, teams have been hard at work continuing their proactive drainage work in an effort to mitigate the risk of water pooling in neighbourhoods that are prone to localized flooding during winter rainfall events.
While we may be heading into another long weekend, please be assured that as long as Mother Nature is working, we will be out responding!
Forecast and Conditions
Today, forecast shows that the temperature is expected to remain quite mild and will be sitting at high single-digits. Late this afternoon and into the evening, periods of rain are set to begin in certain parts of the City, and this weekend’s forecast seems to be holding steady. With 5 to 10 millimetres of rain expected during tonight’s overnight hours and an additional 10 to 15 millimetres tomorrow, we could see up to 25 millimetres possible before the event is set to end on Sunday morning.
To add to the rain that’s in the forecast, Saturday’s daytime temperature is expected to remain above average for this time of year. The above-freezing temperatures will cause some of the snow currently sitting on our network to melt, potentially adding further strain on areas prone to localized flooding. As we head into Saturday’s overnight hours, some areas are likely to reach the freezing point which could spark some pockets of snow flurries. Slowly decreasing throughout the day and into the night Sunday, the temperature is expected to reach a low of -4 degrees Celsius. Any water that remains on the network could freeze, creating icy and slippery travelling conditions as we head into Monday morning’s commute.
Our Response
With nearly 80 centimetres of snow falling in as little as 14 days, many catch basins were left covered but have been top of mind for Roads and Parking Services. With up to 25 millimetres of rain expected over a 36-hour period, it’s now critical that catch basins are cleared to allow them to take in water. As proactive catch basin clearing work continues, crews will be monitoring areas at risk in the coming days and will be ready to respond to immediate flooding concerns.
Restoring our sidewalks and cleaning up problem spots such as bus stops, cross walks, intersections, cul de sacs and islands continues to be an operational priority and these efforts will be ongoing throughout the day.
In the interim, we are urging you – if you can – to try clearing the catch basin near your home. You may also report a blocked catch basin or a flooded roadway by visiting Ottawa.ca/winter.
Next Steps
As we have seen since the start of this winter season, forecasts and the weather have been unpredictable and we will continue to monitor conditions and adjust our response as needed. On Sunday, should conditions warrant the need, we will turn to treating sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network in anticipation of the drop in temperature that is currently in the forecast.
As this will most likely serve as our last update of 2022, we would like to close off the year by taking a moment to extend our gratitude and most sincere appreciation to our residents, staff, and members of Council. A lot has been thrown at us in recent weeks and everyone’s played an integral role in the success of our work.
Thank you for your continued support in our commitment to making sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network a safer place for everyone’s travels.
Happy New Year, celebrate with care and best wishes for the year ahead!
Roads and Parking Services has been getting ready for a spring-like event, merely a few short days before ringing in the new year. With rain in the forecast, teams have been hard at work continuing their proactive drainage work in an effort to mitigate the risk of water pooling in neighbourhoods that are prone to localized flooding during winter rainfall events.
While we may be heading into another long weekend, please be assured that as long as Mother Nature is working, we will be out responding!
Forecast and Conditions
Today, forecast shows that the temperature is expected to remain quite mild and will be sitting at high single-digits. Late this afternoon and into the evening, periods of rain are set to begin in certain parts of the City, and this weekend’s forecast seems to be holding steady. With 5 to 10 millimetres of rain expected during tonight’s overnight hours and an additional 10 to 15 millimetres tomorrow, we could see up to 25 millimetres possible before the event is set to end on Sunday morning.
To add to the rain that’s in the forecast, Saturday’s daytime temperature is expected to remain above average for this time of year. The above-freezing temperatures will cause some of the snow currently sitting on our network to melt, potentially adding further strain on areas prone to localized flooding. As we head into Saturday’s overnight hours, some areas are likely to reach the freezing point which could spark some pockets of snow flurries. Slowly decreasing throughout the day and into the night Sunday, the temperature is expected to reach a low of -4 degrees Celsius. Any water that remains on the network could freeze, creating icy and slippery travelling conditions as we head into Monday morning’s commute.
Our Response
With nearly 80 centimetres of snow falling in as little as 14 days, many catch basins were left covered but have been top of mind for Roads and Parking Services. With up to 25 millimetres of rain expected over a 36-hour period, it’s now critical that catch basins are cleared to allow them to take in water. As proactive catch basin clearing work continues, crews will be monitoring areas at risk in the coming days and will be ready to respond to immediate flooding concerns.
Restoring our sidewalks and cleaning up problem spots such as bus stops, cross walks, intersections, cul de sacs and islands continues to be an operational priority and these efforts will be ongoing throughout the day.
In the interim, we are urging you – if you can – to try clearing the catch basin near your home. You may also report a blocked catch basin or a flooded roadway by visiting Ottawa.ca/winter.
Next Steps
As we have seen since the start of this winter season, forecasts and the weather have been unpredictable and we will continue to monitor conditions and adjust our response as needed. On Sunday, should conditions warrant the need, we will turn to treating sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network in anticipation of the drop in temperature that is currently in the forecast.
As this will most likely serve as our last update of 2022, we would like to close off the year by taking a moment to extend our gratitude and most sincere appreciation to our residents, staff, and members of Council. A lot has been thrown at us in recent weeks and everyone’s played an integral role in the success of our work.
Thank you for your continued support in our commitment to making sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network a safer place for everyone’s travels.
Happy New Year, celebrate with care and best wishes for the year ahead!
December 28th, 2022
As of 8 o’clock this morning, the Ottawa Airport reported 8 centimetres of snow and forecast shows that precipitations will continue through to mid-day today, possibly bringing another 3 to 5 centimetres before lunch. While snow is expected to taper off throughout the afternoon, the temperature is forecasted to make a slow progression towards the freezing mark. Given that there is more snow than originally forecasted and considering the timing of this event, we decided not to call a winter weather parking ban. However, we will be working in residential neighbourhoods today and would appreciate that for anyone who can, to please find off-street parking wherever possible.
While they may not be as strong as they were during the major winter storm, winds remain a factor in certain parts of the City and pockets of localised blowing snow and reduced visibility are possible throughout the day.
Our response
Crews were deployed at the start of accumulation and began treating and clearing priority sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. With an operational shift expected later this morning, teams are anticipating starting residential work around mid-to-late morning. Once the residential network is complete, we will begin cleaning up problem spots such as bus stops, intersections, crosswalks, islands and cul de sacs.
The active transportation network – such as our sidewalks and multi-use pathways – also remains a priority for Roads and Parking Services, and restoration work on these networks will continue throughout the week.
Please be aware that today surfaces such as sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network could be slippery; we are asking everyone to travel with care and to adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
Next Steps
Tomorrow, the temperature is expected to reach 5 degrees Celsius, with a high of 7 predicted for Friday. Rain remains in the forecast and is set to begin tomorrow, continuing intermittently before intensifying as we head into the weekend. Saturday, 10 to 15 millimetres is possible, threatening areas prone to localised flooding during winter rainfall events.
Once clearing and treating of our transportation network is complete and in anticipation of the rain that is in the forecast, operations will shift to preventative drainage work and teams will be working on opening catch basins that are currently covered with snow. If you are out this week, please consider clearing your local catch basin to allow rain and melting snow to drain from the roadway. This will also help to avoid ice build up in your area as Sunday’s temperature is expected to drop below the freezing point. You may also report a blocked catch basin by visiting Ottawa.ca.
Thanking you all for your support as we continue responding to winter weather.
As of 8 o’clock this morning, the Ottawa Airport reported 8 centimetres of snow and forecast shows that precipitations will continue through to mid-day today, possibly bringing another 3 to 5 centimetres before lunch. While snow is expected to taper off throughout the afternoon, the temperature is forecasted to make a slow progression towards the freezing mark. Given that there is more snow than originally forecasted and considering the timing of this event, we decided not to call a winter weather parking ban. However, we will be working in residential neighbourhoods today and would appreciate that for anyone who can, to please find off-street parking wherever possible.
While they may not be as strong as they were during the major winter storm, winds remain a factor in certain parts of the City and pockets of localised blowing snow and reduced visibility are possible throughout the day.
Our response
Crews were deployed at the start of accumulation and began treating and clearing priority sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network. With an operational shift expected later this morning, teams are anticipating starting residential work around mid-to-late morning. Once the residential network is complete, we will begin cleaning up problem spots such as bus stops, intersections, crosswalks, islands and cul de sacs.
The active transportation network – such as our sidewalks and multi-use pathways – also remains a priority for Roads and Parking Services, and restoration work on these networks will continue throughout the week.
Please be aware that today surfaces such as sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network could be slippery; we are asking everyone to travel with care and to adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
Next Steps
Tomorrow, the temperature is expected to reach 5 degrees Celsius, with a high of 7 predicted for Friday. Rain remains in the forecast and is set to begin tomorrow, continuing intermittently before intensifying as we head into the weekend. Saturday, 10 to 15 millimetres is possible, threatening areas prone to localised flooding during winter rainfall events.
Once clearing and treating of our transportation network is complete and in anticipation of the rain that is in the forecast, operations will shift to preventative drainage work and teams will be working on opening catch basins that are currently covered with snow. If you are out this week, please consider clearing your local catch basin to allow rain and melting snow to drain from the roadway. This will also help to avoid ice build up in your area as Sunday’s temperature is expected to drop below the freezing point. You may also report a blocked catch basin by visiting Ottawa.ca.
Thanking you all for your support as we continue responding to winter weather.
December 26th, 2022
We would like to begin this morning’s operational update by looking back at the last couple of weeks – specifically, what Ottawa experienced in terms of weather and what that means for our operations in the coming days.
Ensuring that winter weather would stick, Mother Nature brought 38 centimetres of snow to Ottawa over the course of the event from December 15th to the 18th. Days later, we saw the start of the major winter storm, an event that wreaked havoc on our transportation network. By the morning of Saturday, December 24th, the Ottawa Airport reported close to 20 centimetres of snow and nearly 20 millimetres of rain, with higher amounts in localized areas. Periods of freezing rain and ice pellets were also part of this event.
While rain may have melted some of it away, the combined total snowfall for these two events is just shy of 60 centimeters. So, now what?
Significant Weather Event Has Been Lifted
While we are still working on cleaning up the impacts from this major winter storm, the significant hazardous conditions have now passed so we are declaring an end to the Significant Weather Event and transitioning back to normal operations.
Operational Forecast
A reoccurring theme through this major winter storm has been very strong winds and significant blowing and drifting snow. Gusts kept sweeping through parts of the City yesterday, causing localized blowing snow and requiring our teams to continue clearing and treating our priority network. Yesterday evening, some areas of the City also saw scattered flurries with some snow accumulation. Roads and Parking Services worked through the weekend to respond to the changing conditions, with Citywide sidewalk and residential work continuing.
Addressing the condition of our sidewalk network remains a priority for the Roads and Parking Services Team and over the course of this week, we will continue to work on clearing and treating its icy and snow packed conditions.
We are now monitoring a small event that is expected to begin tomorrow. With another 5 centimetres of snow possible Tuesday and into Wednesday morning, Supervisors will be out keeping an eye on conditions and both staff and equipment will be deployed according to the weather.
At last, the forecast seems to be on our side with milder temperatures predicted later this week. With the temperature forecasted to get above the freezing point, our treating efforts will be rewarded as we anticipate areas with current ice build up to thaw, allowing us to return to clear and restore the transportation network.
Next Steps
In the coming days you can expect our operations to continue as we work on addressing problem spots such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, islands, corners and cul de sacs, all while responding to the weather that is anticipated to begin tomorrow.
With warmer weather and rain in the forecast, proactive and preventative drainage work in areas prone to flooding in the winter months is also on the agenda. Expect to see us opening up catch basins in an effort to give the anticipated snowmelt a place to drain! If you can this week, please help by clearing your local catch basin. Can’t do it yourself? Let us know by creating an online service request by visiting Ottawa.ca.
We would like to begin this morning’s operational update by looking back at the last couple of weeks – specifically, what Ottawa experienced in terms of weather and what that means for our operations in the coming days.
Ensuring that winter weather would stick, Mother Nature brought 38 centimetres of snow to Ottawa over the course of the event from December 15th to the 18th. Days later, we saw the start of the major winter storm, an event that wreaked havoc on our transportation network. By the morning of Saturday, December 24th, the Ottawa Airport reported close to 20 centimetres of snow and nearly 20 millimetres of rain, with higher amounts in localized areas. Periods of freezing rain and ice pellets were also part of this event.
While rain may have melted some of it away, the combined total snowfall for these two events is just shy of 60 centimeters. So, now what?
Significant Weather Event Has Been Lifted
While we are still working on cleaning up the impacts from this major winter storm, the significant hazardous conditions have now passed so we are declaring an end to the Significant Weather Event and transitioning back to normal operations.
Operational Forecast
A reoccurring theme through this major winter storm has been very strong winds and significant blowing and drifting snow. Gusts kept sweeping through parts of the City yesterday, causing localized blowing snow and requiring our teams to continue clearing and treating our priority network. Yesterday evening, some areas of the City also saw scattered flurries with some snow accumulation. Roads and Parking Services worked through the weekend to respond to the changing conditions, with Citywide sidewalk and residential work continuing.
Addressing the condition of our sidewalk network remains a priority for the Roads and Parking Services Team and over the course of this week, we will continue to work on clearing and treating its icy and snow packed conditions.
We are now monitoring a small event that is expected to begin tomorrow. With another 5 centimetres of snow possible Tuesday and into Wednesday morning, Supervisors will be out keeping an eye on conditions and both staff and equipment will be deployed according to the weather.
At last, the forecast seems to be on our side with milder temperatures predicted later this week. With the temperature forecasted to get above the freezing point, our treating efforts will be rewarded as we anticipate areas with current ice build up to thaw, allowing us to return to clear and restore the transportation network.
Next Steps
In the coming days you can expect our operations to continue as we work on addressing problem spots such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, islands, corners and cul de sacs, all while responding to the weather that is anticipated to begin tomorrow.
With warmer weather and rain in the forecast, proactive and preventative drainage work in areas prone to flooding in the winter months is also on the agenda. Expect to see us opening up catch basins in an effort to give the anticipated snowmelt a place to drain! If you can this week, please help by clearing your local catch basin. Can’t do it yourself? Let us know by creating an online service request by visiting Ottawa.ca.
December 24th, 2022
Overnight the City received varying amounts of snow accumulation with the Ottawa Airport reporting 15 centimetres as of this morning. As wind gusts between the 70 to 80 kilometers an hour range could be felt across the City, the wind chill kept close to -20 degrees Celsius. As a result, snow was blown onto the network and into many areas that had already been cleared and treated.
Forecast and Conditions
Scattered flurries are expected today, but the bulk of the precipitations are behind us and snow does not seem to be threatening Sunday’s forecast. However, strong winds remain a concern for today, as intermittent gusts of winds could continue blowing snow onto sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network while also causing limited visibility. Very cold wind chill values are expected to continue today and through Sunday.
After yesterday’s mixed bag of weather and with today’s colder temperatures, black ice and ice build ups are threatening today’s travels. Please expect that surfaces such as sidewalks, roads, and cycling network – will be slippery and caution should be used if out travelling.
Given the current state of our transportation network while understanding that operations are taking longer than usual because of the complexity of this major winter storm, the Significant Weather Event continues to be in effect.
As they have been through the course of this event, the Office of Emergency Management remains engaged and in a state of “Monitoring” and will coordinate a Citywide response if need-be.
Our Response
Crews worked hard overnight and again through this morning’s shift change. Priority sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network remain our current focus but attention is expected to shift into residential neighborhouds around mid-morning today. Residential streets completed yesterday will be cleared and treated again today to address icy conditions and snow accumulation caused from both falling and blowing snow.
Sidewalk equipment also continues its work, and blowers are out in areas that saw heavier accumulations and drifting snow. This type of equipment takes more time to clear sidewalks, and we appreciate your patience as we continue with our efforts.
What You Should Know
Next Steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue its work on restoring the transportation network. Working today, tomorrow and into next week, we will work on completing clearing and treating across the City as well as cleaning up areas such as bus stops, corners, intersections and cul de sacs.
This weekend’s precipitations are predicted to remain low. As we will continue to respond to the conditions while keeping a close eye on the forecast, we do not foresee the need to communicate any further over the weekend. Unless things change, please expect our next operational update on Monday, December 26.
Overnight the City received varying amounts of snow accumulation with the Ottawa Airport reporting 15 centimetres as of this morning. As wind gusts between the 70 to 80 kilometers an hour range could be felt across the City, the wind chill kept close to -20 degrees Celsius. As a result, snow was blown onto the network and into many areas that had already been cleared and treated.
Forecast and Conditions
Scattered flurries are expected today, but the bulk of the precipitations are behind us and snow does not seem to be threatening Sunday’s forecast. However, strong winds remain a concern for today, as intermittent gusts of winds could continue blowing snow onto sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network while also causing limited visibility. Very cold wind chill values are expected to continue today and through Sunday.
After yesterday’s mixed bag of weather and with today’s colder temperatures, black ice and ice build ups are threatening today’s travels. Please expect that surfaces such as sidewalks, roads, and cycling network – will be slippery and caution should be used if out travelling.
Given the current state of our transportation network while understanding that operations are taking longer than usual because of the complexity of this major winter storm, the Significant Weather Event continues to be in effect.
As they have been through the course of this event, the Office of Emergency Management remains engaged and in a state of “Monitoring” and will coordinate a Citywide response if need-be.
Our Response
Crews worked hard overnight and again through this morning’s shift change. Priority sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network remain our current focus but attention is expected to shift into residential neighborhouds around mid-morning today. Residential streets completed yesterday will be cleared and treated again today to address icy conditions and snow accumulation caused from both falling and blowing snow.
Sidewalk equipment also continues its work, and blowers are out in areas that saw heavier accumulations and drifting snow. This type of equipment takes more time to clear sidewalks, and we appreciate your patience as we continue with our efforts.
What You Should Know
- Plows are coming to a residential neighbourhood near you! The Winter Weather Parking Ban is no longer in effect, but we still need space to work. Try and limit street parking where possible as crews will be out in full force again today.
- Adjust to the conditions of the transportation network! Areas such as sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network may be slippery today. Exercise caution when traveling and as always, plan ahead and take your time.
- Safety First – Service Always! Accumulation may have slowed down but Roads and Parking Services is still working full steam ahead. Please, never pass our working vehicles and always stay at least 3 car lengths behind us. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching – if you can – please step aside into an open driveway.
- Stay in the know about snow! Download the City of Ottawa app or sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts by visiting Ottawa.ca.
Next Steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue its work on restoring the transportation network. Working today, tomorrow and into next week, we will work on completing clearing and treating across the City as well as cleaning up areas such as bus stops, corners, intersections and cul de sacs.
This weekend’s precipitations are predicted to remain low. As we will continue to respond to the conditions while keeping a close eye on the forecast, we do not foresee the need to communicate any further over the weekend. Unless things change, please expect our next operational update on Monday, December 26.
December 23rd, 2022
Teams have been out all day clearing and treating the transportation network to try and get ahead of the fluctuating temperatures that were in the forecast for this afternoon. As expected, the temperature became mild and rose above the freezing mark, bringing on rain and melting some of the snow and ice accumulation away. As the temperature began to drop below 0, the transportation network was left extremely vulnerable to ice formation because of the heavy rain and snow melt we experienced through most of the day.
Forecast and conditions
As forecasted, the temperature began dropping mid-afternoon and is expected to reach -9 degrees Celsius overnight. Precipitations have also since returned to snow, with another 5 to 10 centimeters predicted to fall overtop icy conditions. Possible wind gusts of 70 to 80 kilometers are expected to continue through this evening and into tomorrow morning. Winds will be strong and with the current snowfall, prepare yourselves for sudden periods of heavy blowing snow which will at times, reduce visibility to near zero.
The next 12 hours continues to be unfavourable for travel – please, if you must leave your home, adjust to the conditions of our sidewalks, roads and winter cycling network.
The Office of Emergency Management remains in a state of “Monitoring” and is ready to coordinate a Citywide response if deemed necessary. Further, the Significant Weather Event is still in effect as operations are expectedly taking longer than usual to complete.
Our Response
With precipitations transitioning back to snow, accumulation can now be seen across of our transportation network and teams have already started to return to clear and treat priority sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network. We will also be working in parallel on clearing and treating our residential neighbourhoods. The snow is wet and heavy, slowing down our vehicles as we are working through the storm. Please expect delays during this next phase of our operations, as they will take longer to complete.
Water pooling has also been spotted through several parts of the City, and so we will continue to open catch basins to give any leftover water space to drain. There are over 100,000 catch basins in the City – it’s important for everyone who can, to please support our operations by clearing those near your home. We are working around the clock and have called in reinforcements from our partners across Public Works. All available equipment and resources will continue to be deployed to respond and clean up after this major winter storm. However, given the magnitude of this storm we are relying on resident support to help us through the event.
Winter Weather Parking Ban
The Winter Weather Parking Ban remains in effect until 7 am Saturday, December 24. During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the road or risk being ticketed. Valid parking permit holders are exempt, as well as parking on our commercial main streets.
Given the extension to the standard length of the winter weather parking ban, additional temporary parking is available at parking lots of City of Ottawa Recreation Facilities as well as Ottawa Public Libraries. As a reminder:
Next Steps
As always, we will continue to monitor the forecast and conditions through the course of the weekend and our response will be adjusted in accordance with the changing weather. While the current Winter Weather Parking Ban is being lifted at 7 am Saturday, December 24, more work will be needed once we are through with our priority network. Please, if you can, try and find off-street parking wherever possible as this helps us clear right up to the curb.
The event is ongoing and continues to unfold. We understand that it’s been challenging – especially this time of year when so many rely on safe travel conditions. We would like to take a moment to thank everyone that has helped with this event – from clearing your local catch basin to adjusting to the conditions of the road or even just waving to our operators from afar – every bit of support has helped us make it to this point of the event.
So, for that and your ongoing patience while we continue working through the event, thank you.
Teams have been out all day clearing and treating the transportation network to try and get ahead of the fluctuating temperatures that were in the forecast for this afternoon. As expected, the temperature became mild and rose above the freezing mark, bringing on rain and melting some of the snow and ice accumulation away. As the temperature began to drop below 0, the transportation network was left extremely vulnerable to ice formation because of the heavy rain and snow melt we experienced through most of the day.
Forecast and conditions
As forecasted, the temperature began dropping mid-afternoon and is expected to reach -9 degrees Celsius overnight. Precipitations have also since returned to snow, with another 5 to 10 centimeters predicted to fall overtop icy conditions. Possible wind gusts of 70 to 80 kilometers are expected to continue through this evening and into tomorrow morning. Winds will be strong and with the current snowfall, prepare yourselves for sudden periods of heavy blowing snow which will at times, reduce visibility to near zero.
The next 12 hours continues to be unfavourable for travel – please, if you must leave your home, adjust to the conditions of our sidewalks, roads and winter cycling network.
The Office of Emergency Management remains in a state of “Monitoring” and is ready to coordinate a Citywide response if deemed necessary. Further, the Significant Weather Event is still in effect as operations are expectedly taking longer than usual to complete.
Our Response
With precipitations transitioning back to snow, accumulation can now be seen across of our transportation network and teams have already started to return to clear and treat priority sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network. We will also be working in parallel on clearing and treating our residential neighbourhoods. The snow is wet and heavy, slowing down our vehicles as we are working through the storm. Please expect delays during this next phase of our operations, as they will take longer to complete.
Water pooling has also been spotted through several parts of the City, and so we will continue to open catch basins to give any leftover water space to drain. There are over 100,000 catch basins in the City – it’s important for everyone who can, to please support our operations by clearing those near your home. We are working around the clock and have called in reinforcements from our partners across Public Works. All available equipment and resources will continue to be deployed to respond and clean up after this major winter storm. However, given the magnitude of this storm we are relying on resident support to help us through the event.
Winter Weather Parking Ban
The Winter Weather Parking Ban remains in effect until 7 am Saturday, December 24. During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the road or risk being ticketed. Valid parking permit holders are exempt, as well as parking on our commercial main streets.
Given the extension to the standard length of the winter weather parking ban, additional temporary parking is available at parking lots of City of Ottawa Recreation Facilities as well as Ottawa Public Libraries. As a reminder:
- Assess conditions upon entry, park in clear areas and exercise caution when walking or driving through the lot.
- Only park in parking lots that are clearly identified as serving City recreation facilities and Ottawa Public Libraries.
- Retrieve your vehicle before 7 am Saturday, December 24.
Next Steps
As always, we will continue to monitor the forecast and conditions through the course of the weekend and our response will be adjusted in accordance with the changing weather. While the current Winter Weather Parking Ban is being lifted at 7 am Saturday, December 24, more work will be needed once we are through with our priority network. Please, if you can, try and find off-street parking wherever possible as this helps us clear right up to the curb.
The event is ongoing and continues to unfold. We understand that it’s been challenging – especially this time of year when so many rely on safe travel conditions. We would like to take a moment to thank everyone that has helped with this event – from clearing your local catch basin to adjusting to the conditions of the road or even just waving to our operators from afar – every bit of support has helped us make it to this point of the event.
So, for that and your ongoing patience while we continue working through the event, thank you.
December 23rd, 2022
This morning Ottawa woke up to heavy snow, wet and icy conditions. Thursday evening the major winter storm we’ve been tracking made landfall in Ottawa and teams had already been well underway doing proactive work along our transportation network. Working through the night, our focus was on maintaining our priority sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network.
With recent increased certainty towards the path and strength of this major storm event, Environment Canada has upgraded its alert for the City, and Ottawa is now under a Winter Storm Warning. However – one thing remains uncertain, and that is what type of precipitations the City will see through the next stage of this event.
The Significant Weather Event (SWE) remains in effect for Ottawa and the challenging conditions means that it will take us longer than usual to treat and clear the network. The Office of Emergency Management remains engaged in a “Monitoring” status from a response escalation perspective and is ready to coordinate a Citywide response if necessary.
Travelling through the course of this major winter storm should be limited to essential reasons. Walking, driving, or cycling on our network during this time is not recommended and should only be done by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Forecast and Conditions
Thursday night the event began with snow mixed with rain, ice pellets, and freezing rain. During the overnight hours, precipitations were met with wind gusts that swept through parts of the City at 40 to 60 kilometers an hour, causing blowing and drifting snow to cover areas of our network that had already been treated and cleared. Between 5 to 10 centimeters of snow accumulated in certain parts of the City, while precipitations continued to change through the overnight hours and the temperature hovered near the freezing point. Rain, freezing rain, snow and ice pellets fell, creating a wintery mix that made this morning’s travel very difficult to navigate. As the temperature continues to slightly increase throughout the course of this morning, rain will continue, and total rainfall levels could be anywhere from 15 to 20 millimeters, possibly more in some localized areas of the city.
This afternoon, forecast shows that winds will return with gusts reaching 80 kilometers an hour. The temperature is also expected to drop to -6 degrees Celsius, plunging several degrees in just a few hours. This sudden drop in temperature is an ideal environment for flash freezing conditions, conditions we will most likely see throughout the City. Water from rain and melted snow that remains on the network will freeze, creating dangerous traveling conditions. This drop of temperature means precipitations will also revert to snow that is expected to continue through to Saturday morning, along with the winds that are predicted to return this afternoon. When its all said and done, this stage of the event could bring another 5 to 15 centimeters of snow to Ottawa.
Our Response
Our focus today will be to continue clearing and treating priority sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network. The challenge we will be meeting is the continued fluctuating temperature and precipitations, as this pattern is commonly known to create ice build up on our network, conditions that are usually very difficult to manage.
Last night’s wintery mix caused for snow and ice that had accumulated on the residential network to stick to the surface of the road. To break that snow and ice bond, teams will be out in full force this morning clearing and treating residential neighbourhoods and streets. Multiple passes will be required through the course of this event and operations will take longer to complete. This is why extending this winter weather parking ban is critical in supporting our operations.
Please be assured that Roads and Parking Services has deployed all staff and every piece of equipment available in response to this event. A focus on opening and clearing catch basin remains a priority, and we will be working through shift change with efforts continuing into the weekend.
An Extended Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will is in effect from 10 am today, December 23 to 7 am Saturday, December 24. Please remove your vehicle from the road or risk being ticketed. Though residential parking permit holders or parking on our commercial main streets are exempt, we encourage those who can, to please find off-street parking options during this event to help operators clear and treat as close to the curb as possible.
Information on where to park during a Winter Weather Parking Ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking. To provide additional parking options during this winter weather parking ban, the City of Ottawa is offering temporary parking at parking lots of City of Ottawa Recreation Facilities and Ottawa Public Libraires. Please remember to:
Stay in the know on winter parking restrictions by signing up for our e-alerts or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
Next Steps
The forecast remains fluid and our response will continue to change based on conditions. The weather can change on a dime, but Supervisors who are out monitoring the weather and transportation network will ensure to deploy crews according to the needs of our sidewalks, roads, and winter cycling network.
We will continue to update you on the status of this major winter event as the situation develops.
This morning Ottawa woke up to heavy snow, wet and icy conditions. Thursday evening the major winter storm we’ve been tracking made landfall in Ottawa and teams had already been well underway doing proactive work along our transportation network. Working through the night, our focus was on maintaining our priority sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network.
With recent increased certainty towards the path and strength of this major storm event, Environment Canada has upgraded its alert for the City, and Ottawa is now under a Winter Storm Warning. However – one thing remains uncertain, and that is what type of precipitations the City will see through the next stage of this event.
The Significant Weather Event (SWE) remains in effect for Ottawa and the challenging conditions means that it will take us longer than usual to treat and clear the network. The Office of Emergency Management remains engaged in a “Monitoring” status from a response escalation perspective and is ready to coordinate a Citywide response if necessary.
Travelling through the course of this major winter storm should be limited to essential reasons. Walking, driving, or cycling on our network during this time is not recommended and should only be done by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
Forecast and Conditions
Thursday night the event began with snow mixed with rain, ice pellets, and freezing rain. During the overnight hours, precipitations were met with wind gusts that swept through parts of the City at 40 to 60 kilometers an hour, causing blowing and drifting snow to cover areas of our network that had already been treated and cleared. Between 5 to 10 centimeters of snow accumulated in certain parts of the City, while precipitations continued to change through the overnight hours and the temperature hovered near the freezing point. Rain, freezing rain, snow and ice pellets fell, creating a wintery mix that made this morning’s travel very difficult to navigate. As the temperature continues to slightly increase throughout the course of this morning, rain will continue, and total rainfall levels could be anywhere from 15 to 20 millimeters, possibly more in some localized areas of the city.
This afternoon, forecast shows that winds will return with gusts reaching 80 kilometers an hour. The temperature is also expected to drop to -6 degrees Celsius, plunging several degrees in just a few hours. This sudden drop in temperature is an ideal environment for flash freezing conditions, conditions we will most likely see throughout the City. Water from rain and melted snow that remains on the network will freeze, creating dangerous traveling conditions. This drop of temperature means precipitations will also revert to snow that is expected to continue through to Saturday morning, along with the winds that are predicted to return this afternoon. When its all said and done, this stage of the event could bring another 5 to 15 centimeters of snow to Ottawa.
Our Response
Our focus today will be to continue clearing and treating priority sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network. The challenge we will be meeting is the continued fluctuating temperature and precipitations, as this pattern is commonly known to create ice build up on our network, conditions that are usually very difficult to manage.
Last night’s wintery mix caused for snow and ice that had accumulated on the residential network to stick to the surface of the road. To break that snow and ice bond, teams will be out in full force this morning clearing and treating residential neighbourhoods and streets. Multiple passes will be required through the course of this event and operations will take longer to complete. This is why extending this winter weather parking ban is critical in supporting our operations.
Please be assured that Roads and Parking Services has deployed all staff and every piece of equipment available in response to this event. A focus on opening and clearing catch basin remains a priority, and we will be working through shift change with efforts continuing into the weekend.
An Extended Winter Weather Parking Ban is in effect
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will is in effect from 10 am today, December 23 to 7 am Saturday, December 24. Please remove your vehicle from the road or risk being ticketed. Though residential parking permit holders or parking on our commercial main streets are exempt, we encourage those who can, to please find off-street parking options during this event to help operators clear and treat as close to the curb as possible.
Information on where to park during a Winter Weather Parking Ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking. To provide additional parking options during this winter weather parking ban, the City of Ottawa is offering temporary parking at parking lots of City of Ottawa Recreation Facilities and Ottawa Public Libraires. Please remember to:
- Assess conditions upon entry, park in clear areas and exercise caution when walking or driving through the lot.
- Only park in parking lots that are clearly identified as serving City recreation facilities and Ottawa Public Libraries.
- Retrieve your vehicle before 7 am Saturday, December 24.
Stay in the know on winter parking restrictions by signing up for our e-alerts or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
- At this time there is no need to create a service request for routine-type work. All available resources and pieces of equipment have been deployed, and our efforts are most needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- If today is your waste collection day, please place your bins in your driveway – away from snowbanks, sidewalks and roadways.
- Push don’t lift! Did you know that wet snow can weigh more than twice as much as when its light and fluffy? If you are shoveling today, try to refrain from lifting and instead – push snow to the sides of your laneway. Pushing snow is proven to be less strenuous on a person and taking your time will go a long way. This event is only just getting started, and, like us you will most likely need to do multiple passes.
Next Steps
The forecast remains fluid and our response will continue to change based on conditions. The weather can change on a dime, but Supervisors who are out monitoring the weather and transportation network will ensure to deploy crews according to the needs of our sidewalks, roads, and winter cycling network.
We will continue to update you on the status of this major winter event as the situation develops.
December 22nd, 2022
The forecast over the next few days does not look like it will be forgiving, and we are all now bracing for the impacts that this major winter event will have on Ottawa’s transportation network. The mix of snow, rain, very strong winds, and fluctuating temperatures that are in the forecast have the potential to wreak havoc on our transportation network and may significantly impact travel for the coming days.
A major winter storm is on the horizon. Travel during this time should be avoided and we are advising everyone to complete their errands before the event is scheduled to begin later this evening. Anyone who is required to travel during this event is asked to plan ahead and to give themselves extra travel time. Always adjust to the conditions of the transportation network and remember – blue lights flashing means that we are on the job! Never pass one of our operators.
As a direct result of the behaviour of this event and considering that Environment Canada has since upgraded its Special Weather Statement to now a Winter Storm Watch, effective immediately, the City of Ottawa is declaring a Significant Weather Event that will remain in effect until further notice.
A Significant Weather Event has been declared
A Significant Weather Event (SWE) is declared when Environment Canada issues a Weather Hazard when weather that is either occurring or approaching has the potential to pose significant danger to users of Ottawa’s transportation network.
The intent of declaring a SWE is to notify the public that because of the forecast and/or current weather conditions, it will take longer than usual to restore the transportation network to expected conditions and that caution is to be exercised when using sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network.
For more information about the Significant Weather Events program, please visit Ottawa.ca.
Forecast and Conditions
Forecast shows that snow showers are expected to begin Thursday afternoon before precipitations intensify throughout the evening and into Friday morning. Around midnight, wind gusts reaching 40 to 60 kilometres per hour are also possible, creating blowing snow and causing low visibility. Peak accumulation levels could reach 3 to 4 centimetres per hour and during this period, localized areas could see as much as 10 to 20 centimetres of snow.
Shortly before sunrise Friday, the temperature will begin to rise and snow is expected to transition to rain, with ice pellets and freezing rain possible during this transition. As warmer temperature is expected to continue through the morning, Friday’s total rainfall levels could be anywhere from 10 to 15 millimetres.
Starting Friday afternoon, the temperature is expected to begin dropping rapidly before reaching -9 degrees Celsius through the overnight period. This sudden drop in temperature will likely bring flash freezing conditions to Ottawa and kickstart the precipitation’s transition back to snow, bringing another 5 to 10 centimetres that would accumulate on top of conditions that have just recently frozen over. Strong and damaging winds are also expected, with wind gusts between 70 to 90 kilometres per hour.
Please visit getprepared.gc.ca to make sure you are ready in case of an emergency.
Our Response
This major winter storm will be challenging for our operations; because of its different stages, operations will take longer than usual to complete. However, in anticipation of this event teams have been out all week opening up catch basins and addressing problem spots that remained from the last event. In an effort to minimize the potential for ice buildup from this upcoming event, proactive work – such as treating and clearing – was also undertaken on our sidewalks, winter cycling network and residential streets.
To further support the response to this event, Roads and Parking Services has requested support from its partners across Public Works and staff will be redeployed as and where needed. This will help respond to immediate flooding concerns, all while balancing the need to continue proactive drainage work.
At the start of accumulation, teams will focus on treating and clearing priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. By declaring a Significant Weather Event, we know that we will not be meeting our winter maintenance timeline objectives, and snow clearing and treating operations will take longer than usual. Accumulation on our network will be heavy and our sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network will be covered with snow or ice – most likely, a combination of. We anticipate that multiple passes will be required in order to clear and treat these conditions.
An Extended Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect from 10 am Friday, December 23 to 7 am Saturday, December 24. The extension to the standard winter weather parking ban is essential for the support of our operations. During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway or risk being ticketed. Eligible parking permit holders are exempt, while allowed parking on our commercial main streets will continue.
We encourage everyone who can – even those with eligible parking permits – to please try and find alternate parking during this time.
Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winter. You can also stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Additional Parking Options Available During This Winter Weather Parking Ban
To help accommodate vehicle owners who do not have access to off-street parking during the winter parking ban scheduled from 10 am Friday, December 23 to 7 am Saturday, December 24, Roads and Parking Services partnered with Parks Maintenance and Forestry Services, the Recreation, Cultural and Facility Services team as well as the Ottawa Public Library to provide temporary off-street parking options at City of Ottawa Recreation Facilities with parking lots and Ottawa Public Libraries.
Please be aware that given the forecast, surface of these lots may be icy and/or covered with snow.
In addition:
Resident Support is Needed
Next Steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the weather. Supervisors will continue to monitor the transportation network and resources will be deployed as and where needed.
The forecast remains variable, and conditions will most likely change – but so will our response. We will adapt to the situation to try and stay ahead of the major winter storm that is upon us. Conditions will make things difficult to navigate, and the support of our residents is crucial as we work on responding to this event.
We appreciate your advanced patience as we work together on addressing these changing conditions, and rest assured that we are committed on keeping you informed as we progress through the event.
The forecast over the next few days does not look like it will be forgiving, and we are all now bracing for the impacts that this major winter event will have on Ottawa’s transportation network. The mix of snow, rain, very strong winds, and fluctuating temperatures that are in the forecast have the potential to wreak havoc on our transportation network and may significantly impact travel for the coming days.
A major winter storm is on the horizon. Travel during this time should be avoided and we are advising everyone to complete their errands before the event is scheduled to begin later this evening. Anyone who is required to travel during this event is asked to plan ahead and to give themselves extra travel time. Always adjust to the conditions of the transportation network and remember – blue lights flashing means that we are on the job! Never pass one of our operators.
As a direct result of the behaviour of this event and considering that Environment Canada has since upgraded its Special Weather Statement to now a Winter Storm Watch, effective immediately, the City of Ottawa is declaring a Significant Weather Event that will remain in effect until further notice.
A Significant Weather Event has been declared
A Significant Weather Event (SWE) is declared when Environment Canada issues a Weather Hazard when weather that is either occurring or approaching has the potential to pose significant danger to users of Ottawa’s transportation network.
The intent of declaring a SWE is to notify the public that because of the forecast and/or current weather conditions, it will take longer than usual to restore the transportation network to expected conditions and that caution is to be exercised when using sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network.
For more information about the Significant Weather Events program, please visit Ottawa.ca.
Forecast and Conditions
Forecast shows that snow showers are expected to begin Thursday afternoon before precipitations intensify throughout the evening and into Friday morning. Around midnight, wind gusts reaching 40 to 60 kilometres per hour are also possible, creating blowing snow and causing low visibility. Peak accumulation levels could reach 3 to 4 centimetres per hour and during this period, localized areas could see as much as 10 to 20 centimetres of snow.
Shortly before sunrise Friday, the temperature will begin to rise and snow is expected to transition to rain, with ice pellets and freezing rain possible during this transition. As warmer temperature is expected to continue through the morning, Friday’s total rainfall levels could be anywhere from 10 to 15 millimetres.
Starting Friday afternoon, the temperature is expected to begin dropping rapidly before reaching -9 degrees Celsius through the overnight period. This sudden drop in temperature will likely bring flash freezing conditions to Ottawa and kickstart the precipitation’s transition back to snow, bringing another 5 to 10 centimetres that would accumulate on top of conditions that have just recently frozen over. Strong and damaging winds are also expected, with wind gusts between 70 to 90 kilometres per hour.
Please visit getprepared.gc.ca to make sure you are ready in case of an emergency.
Our Response
This major winter storm will be challenging for our operations; because of its different stages, operations will take longer than usual to complete. However, in anticipation of this event teams have been out all week opening up catch basins and addressing problem spots that remained from the last event. In an effort to minimize the potential for ice buildup from this upcoming event, proactive work – such as treating and clearing – was also undertaken on our sidewalks, winter cycling network and residential streets.
To further support the response to this event, Roads and Parking Services has requested support from its partners across Public Works and staff will be redeployed as and where needed. This will help respond to immediate flooding concerns, all while balancing the need to continue proactive drainage work.
At the start of accumulation, teams will focus on treating and clearing priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. By declaring a Significant Weather Event, we know that we will not be meeting our winter maintenance timeline objectives, and snow clearing and treating operations will take longer than usual. Accumulation on our network will be heavy and our sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network will be covered with snow or ice – most likely, a combination of. We anticipate that multiple passes will be required in order to clear and treat these conditions.
An Extended Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect from 10 am Friday, December 23 to 7 am Saturday, December 24. The extension to the standard winter weather parking ban is essential for the support of our operations. During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway or risk being ticketed. Eligible parking permit holders are exempt, while allowed parking on our commercial main streets will continue.
We encourage everyone who can – even those with eligible parking permits – to please try and find alternate parking during this time.
Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winter. You can also stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Additional Parking Options Available During This Winter Weather Parking Ban
To help accommodate vehicle owners who do not have access to off-street parking during the winter parking ban scheduled from 10 am Friday, December 23 to 7 am Saturday, December 24, Roads and Parking Services partnered with Parks Maintenance and Forestry Services, the Recreation, Cultural and Facility Services team as well as the Ottawa Public Library to provide temporary off-street parking options at City of Ottawa Recreation Facilities with parking lots and Ottawa Public Libraries.
Please be aware that given the forecast, surface of these lots may be icy and/or covered with snow.
In addition:
- Anyone using these parking lots are encouraged to assess conditions on entry, to park in clear areas and to exercise cautions when walking.
- Please only park in parking lots that are clearly identified as serving City recreation facilities and Ottawa Public Libraries.
- Vehicles should be retrieved by 7 am Saturday, December 24.
Resident Support is Needed
- Please try to complete any required errands today while the conditions remain favourable. Once the major winter storm begins, conditions may quickly change and traveling should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
- Anyone who is able to, please clear your local catch basin to allow as much water as possible to drain from the road. This will help prevent water pooling and ice build up.
- Never pass our working vehicles and always stay 3 car lengths behind to give us extra space to work! Sidewalk machines will also be out in full force, so please make sure that your car is not parked in a way that encroaches onto the sidewalk.
Next Steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor the weather. Supervisors will continue to monitor the transportation network and resources will be deployed as and where needed.
The forecast remains variable, and conditions will most likely change – but so will our response. We will adapt to the situation to try and stay ahead of the major winter storm that is upon us. Conditions will make things difficult to navigate, and the support of our residents is crucial as we work on responding to this event.
We appreciate your advanced patience as we work together on addressing these changing conditions, and rest assured that we are committed on keeping you informed as we progress through the event.
December 21st, 2022
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for a wintery mix that is expected to reach the Nation’s Capital Thursday evening. Coming out of this last winter event, we wanted to reassure you that we are already preparing and planning our operations in advance of this week’s forecast.
The Roads and Parking Services Team is continuing its work on reducing the snow accumulation and snow pack from our transportation network – specifically on our sidewalks, the winter cycling network and on our residential streets – in order to prevent and limit the amount of potential ice buildup. Crews have also been proactively opening up catch basins throughout the City, focusing on problem areas and locations that are prone to water pooling and localized flooding through the winter months during periods of rain.
Forecast and conditions
Late Thursday, forecast shows that precipitations may begin with rain or snow before many parts of the City sees this transition to rain early on Friday. With Friday’s temperature expected to reach into the high single digits before quickly plummeting Friday evening, there is the potential for flash freezing conditions. Travelling surfaces around the City that see rain could freeze, creating extremely icy and slippery conditions. That’s not all; the rapidly falling temperatures may be paired with strong to potentially damaging winds and snow – snow that may be heavy at times creating blizzard-like conditions – which are possible late Friday and into the weekend.
It’s important to note that while the forecast currently shows great certainty around the impacts that this event will have on our transportation network, specific details – such as wind speeds, the types or timing of precipitations and amounts of accumulation – remain uncertain at this time. Our team is closely watching the forecast, and Supervisors will be out monitoring the transportation network throughout the week and will ensure that any problem spot that remains from this last event is addressed.
This week’s operational response will be planned according to the conditions and adjusted as the forecast changes; and where needed, we will be out in full force to respond to the conditions.
Equally, the Office of Emergency Management has been engaged. It has entered into “Monitoring” from a response escalation perspective, and is ready to coordinate a Citywide response, if necessary.
Resident support is needed
This last event brought 38 centimetres of snow to certain areas, naturally blocking many catch basins across the City. Our team is working hard on opening these up ahead of this week’s event, but we cannot do it alone. As the temperature is expected to rise on Wednesday, we are asking for the support of residents who are able, to please clear their local catch basin. Cleared catch basins allows water to drain from the streets unrestricted, preventing water from pooling on our roads which in turn, helps them from freezing over should the temperature drop. As the temperature is forecasted to drop late Friday, clearing catch basins ahead of this event is crucial in preventing slippery and hazardous travelling conditions. Can’t do it yourself? You may also report a blocked catch basin by creating an online service request by visiting Ottawa.ca.
With the holiday break just a few days away, we understand that many may have last-minute errands to run. In anticipation of the conditions that are expected later this week, we are urging anyone who can to plan ahead by completing their errands before the winter weather event reaches the City on Thursday.
We are thanking everyone for their support as we prepare for our next big winter weather event of the season and we will be in touch as this event continues to develop.
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for a wintery mix that is expected to reach the Nation’s Capital Thursday evening. Coming out of this last winter event, we wanted to reassure you that we are already preparing and planning our operations in advance of this week’s forecast.
The Roads and Parking Services Team is continuing its work on reducing the snow accumulation and snow pack from our transportation network – specifically on our sidewalks, the winter cycling network and on our residential streets – in order to prevent and limit the amount of potential ice buildup. Crews have also been proactively opening up catch basins throughout the City, focusing on problem areas and locations that are prone to water pooling and localized flooding through the winter months during periods of rain.
Forecast and conditions
Late Thursday, forecast shows that precipitations may begin with rain or snow before many parts of the City sees this transition to rain early on Friday. With Friday’s temperature expected to reach into the high single digits before quickly plummeting Friday evening, there is the potential for flash freezing conditions. Travelling surfaces around the City that see rain could freeze, creating extremely icy and slippery conditions. That’s not all; the rapidly falling temperatures may be paired with strong to potentially damaging winds and snow – snow that may be heavy at times creating blizzard-like conditions – which are possible late Friday and into the weekend.
It’s important to note that while the forecast currently shows great certainty around the impacts that this event will have on our transportation network, specific details – such as wind speeds, the types or timing of precipitations and amounts of accumulation – remain uncertain at this time. Our team is closely watching the forecast, and Supervisors will be out monitoring the transportation network throughout the week and will ensure that any problem spot that remains from this last event is addressed.
This week’s operational response will be planned according to the conditions and adjusted as the forecast changes; and where needed, we will be out in full force to respond to the conditions.
Equally, the Office of Emergency Management has been engaged. It has entered into “Monitoring” from a response escalation perspective, and is ready to coordinate a Citywide response, if necessary.
Resident support is needed
This last event brought 38 centimetres of snow to certain areas, naturally blocking many catch basins across the City. Our team is working hard on opening these up ahead of this week’s event, but we cannot do it alone. As the temperature is expected to rise on Wednesday, we are asking for the support of residents who are able, to please clear their local catch basin. Cleared catch basins allows water to drain from the streets unrestricted, preventing water from pooling on our roads which in turn, helps them from freezing over should the temperature drop. As the temperature is forecasted to drop late Friday, clearing catch basins ahead of this event is crucial in preventing slippery and hazardous travelling conditions. Can’t do it yourself? You may also report a blocked catch basin by creating an online service request by visiting Ottawa.ca.
With the holiday break just a few days away, we understand that many may have last-minute errands to run. In anticipation of the conditions that are expected later this week, we are urging anyone who can to plan ahead by completing their errands before the winter weather event reaches the City on Thursday.
We are thanking everyone for their support as we prepare for our next big winter weather event of the season and we will be in touch as this event continues to develop.
December 17th, 2022
Forecast and Conditions
Today’s forecast is calling for periods of light snow and flurries through the afternoon and evening with 2 to 4 centimetres possible. The temperature is expected to remain steady near the freezing mark and drop down to minus 6 degrees during the overnight.
Snow accumulation and temperature fluctuations could create slippery conditions. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks.
Our Response
Throughout the weekend all resources are deployed, and the focus remains on clearing and treating our priority sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network as well as cleaning up any problem areas such as crosswalks, intersections, bus stops, corners and islands. Crews are also expected to make a final pass through residential neighbourhoods starting this morning to clean up the streets and treat icy conditions.
The snow is wet and heavy, and it will take time to get through it, but rest assured, the Roads and Parking Services team are hard at work.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Lifted
The Winter Weather Parking Ban was lifted at 7 am this morning. Please sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts to stay up to date on upcoming winter parking restrictions.
Resident Support is Required
What’s Next?
This is a busy time for the Roads and Parking Services team. We would like to acknowledge their perseverance, dedication and around the clock support.
We will adjust our operations accordingly and unless there is a significant change in the weather, please consider this your weekend winter operational update.
Forecast and Conditions
Today’s forecast is calling for periods of light snow and flurries through the afternoon and evening with 2 to 4 centimetres possible. The temperature is expected to remain steady near the freezing mark and drop down to minus 6 degrees during the overnight.
Snow accumulation and temperature fluctuations could create slippery conditions. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks.
Our Response
Throughout the weekend all resources are deployed, and the focus remains on clearing and treating our priority sidewalks, roads and the winter cycling network as well as cleaning up any problem areas such as crosswalks, intersections, bus stops, corners and islands. Crews are also expected to make a final pass through residential neighbourhoods starting this morning to clean up the streets and treat icy conditions.
The snow is wet and heavy, and it will take time to get through it, but rest assured, the Roads and Parking Services team are hard at work.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Lifted
The Winter Weather Parking Ban was lifted at 7 am this morning. Please sign up for the Winter Weather Parking Ban e-alerts to stay up to date on upcoming winter parking restrictions.
Resident Support is Required
- You can continue supporting our operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour if you can share their laneway. Remember, streets that remain open helps with clearing – this support makes all the difference in ensuring we can properly open your neighbourhoods.
- Flashing blue lights means we are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind our vehicles – please never pass our vehicles.
- While you are out, please consider shovelling around your fire hydrant. Be a hydrant hero! An area of 1.5 metres around the hydrant is needed for our partners at Ottawa Fire Services to gain access during a fire. Their ability to quickly access the hydrant is critical to keeping the community safe.
What’s Next?
This is a busy time for the Roads and Parking Services team. We would like to acknowledge their perseverance, dedication and around the clock support.
We will adjust our operations accordingly and unless there is a significant change in the weather, please consider this your weekend winter operational update.
December 16th, 2022
Forecast and Conditions
Snow moved into the region at approximately 11 pm last night with air temperatures slightly above freezing. This has resulted in a very wet and heavy blanket of snow across the city. As of early this morning, Ottawa had already received approximately 10 centimetres of snow with higher amounts in localized areas.
A Snowfall Warning is still in effect for the City of Ottawa and snow will be heavy at times this afternoon with another 10 centimeters forecasted for today. Local blowing snow is still a factor today with 30 kilometre per hour winds gusting to 50 kilometres. Snow will continue tonight with another 5 centimetres possible overnight and into Saturday morning.
Temperature fluctuations can create black ice and icy conditions. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks.
Our Response
The cleanup from our first winter wallop is still underway. Our priority will be on continuing to clear and treat priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network as well as cleaning up problem areas such as, crosswalks, intersections, bus stops, corners and islands. Given the amount of snowfall accumulation, crews are expected to move into residential neighbourhoods and streets by late morning to early afternoon, and will continue their cleanup throughout the evening and during the overnight.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Begins Tonight
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect from 7 pm tonight, Friday, December 16 until Saturday, December 17 at 7 am. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
What’s Next?
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast and the transportation network, and I will continue to provide you with updates regarding our operational response.
Forecast and Conditions
Snow moved into the region at approximately 11 pm last night with air temperatures slightly above freezing. This has resulted in a very wet and heavy blanket of snow across the city. As of early this morning, Ottawa had already received approximately 10 centimetres of snow with higher amounts in localized areas.
A Snowfall Warning is still in effect for the City of Ottawa and snow will be heavy at times this afternoon with another 10 centimeters forecasted for today. Local blowing snow is still a factor today with 30 kilometre per hour winds gusting to 50 kilometres. Snow will continue tonight with another 5 centimetres possible overnight and into Saturday morning.
Temperature fluctuations can create black ice and icy conditions. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while using all of our transportation networks.
Our Response
The cleanup from our first winter wallop is still underway. Our priority will be on continuing to clear and treat priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network as well as cleaning up problem areas such as, crosswalks, intersections, bus stops, corners and islands. Given the amount of snowfall accumulation, crews are expected to move into residential neighbourhoods and streets by late morning to early afternoon, and will continue their cleanup throughout the evening and during the overnight.
Winter Weather Parking Ban Begins Tonight
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect from 7 pm tonight, Friday, December 16 until Saturday, December 17 at 7 am. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
What’s Next?
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the forecast and the transportation network, and I will continue to provide you with updates regarding our operational response.
December 15th, 2022
Forecast and Conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Snowfall Warning for the City of Ottawa. Starting tonight and running through the day Friday, Friday overnight, and into Saturday morning the Ottawa region could see snowfall amounts anywhere from 15 to 25 centimetres. The current forecast indicates accumulation of up to 5 centimetres on Thursday night, another 10 to 15 centimetres through the day on Friday, with another 5 more centimetres possible overnight Friday and into Saturday morning. Peak snowfall rates of 2 to 4 centimeters per hour are possible. With air temperatures expected to remain near freezing throughout this event, the snow is expected to be heavy and wet (versus light and fluffy snow that comes with colder temperatures). Local blowing snow (winds gusting from 30 to 50 kilometres per hour) is expected and will significantly reduce visibility, making this event challenging to manage.
Our Response
The Roads and Parking Services team is ready! We have spent the last few days getting our equipment prepared and our salt domes filled. All available resources will be deployed to respond, and this event will take some time to clean up.
Our supervisors will be monitoring conditions throughout the day today and during the late evening and overnight, and crews will be deployed as precipitation begins. As the snow continues to fall on Friday, our focus will be on clearing and treating priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. Given the amount of precipitation expected, some residents may find it challenging to get out of their communities until we have been able to clear the residential sidewalks and streets.
Conditions will be messy and visibility, at times, may be restricted. We encourage those who can, to plan ahead today by completing their errands and to find off-street parking as travel over the next 36 hours should be limited unless it is essential. If you are travelling, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Friday, December 16 from 7 pm to Saturday, December 17 at 7am. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
What’s Next?
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the weather over the next 36 hours and adjust our response accordingly. We will be keeping you and the community informed as we progress through the event.
Forecast and Conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Snowfall Warning for the City of Ottawa. Starting tonight and running through the day Friday, Friday overnight, and into Saturday morning the Ottawa region could see snowfall amounts anywhere from 15 to 25 centimetres. The current forecast indicates accumulation of up to 5 centimetres on Thursday night, another 10 to 15 centimetres through the day on Friday, with another 5 more centimetres possible overnight Friday and into Saturday morning. Peak snowfall rates of 2 to 4 centimeters per hour are possible. With air temperatures expected to remain near freezing throughout this event, the snow is expected to be heavy and wet (versus light and fluffy snow that comes with colder temperatures). Local blowing snow (winds gusting from 30 to 50 kilometres per hour) is expected and will significantly reduce visibility, making this event challenging to manage.
Our Response
The Roads and Parking Services team is ready! We have spent the last few days getting our equipment prepared and our salt domes filled. All available resources will be deployed to respond, and this event will take some time to clean up.
Our supervisors will be monitoring conditions throughout the day today and during the late evening and overnight, and crews will be deployed as precipitation begins. As the snow continues to fall on Friday, our focus will be on clearing and treating priority sidewalks, roads, and the winter cycling network. Given the amount of precipitation expected, some residents may find it challenging to get out of their communities until we have been able to clear the residential sidewalks and streets.
Conditions will be messy and visibility, at times, may be restricted. We encourage those who can, to plan ahead today by completing their errands and to find off-street parking as travel over the next 36 hours should be limited unless it is essential. If you are travelling, please exercise extreme caution by adjusting to the conditions of the transportation network.
A Winter Weather Parking Ban is Being Called
A Winter Weather Parking Ban will be in effect tomorrow Friday, December 16 from 7 pm to Saturday, December 17 at 7am. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide open roadway.
During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the roadway - unless you have an eligible parking permit or are accessing parking in our exempted commercial main streets. Though eligible parking permit holders are exempt, we encourage those who can, to remove their vehicles to prevent them from being snowed in. Information on parking options during a winter weather parking ban is available on Ottawa.ca/winterparking.
Residents can stay in the know about our winter weather parking bans by signing up for e-alerts at Ottawa.ca, or by downloading the City of Ottawa app.
Resident Support is Required
- Safety is a priority for our team, and we will be out in full force working to keep Ottawa’s sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network treated and clear. Conditions are messy and changing, and those who are out should drive to the conditions of the road.
- Flashing blue lights means we are hard at work. If you see a sidewalk plow approaching, please step aside into an open driveway. Always remember to stay at least 3 car lengths behind our vehicles – please never pass our vehicles.
- There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. We are on the job and our efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.
- Please place garbage, recycling, and organic collection bins in your driveway and not on the road or sidewalks.
What’s Next?
The Roads and Parking Services team will continue to monitor the weather over the next 36 hours and adjust our response accordingly. We will be keeping you and the community informed as we progress through the event.