Ottawa residents are waking up to hazardous weather conditions this Thursday, November 9, as Environment Canada has issued a freezing rain warning for the region. The national weather agency has escalated its weather advisory from a special statement to a warning, alerting the public to the mix of wintry precipitation expected to hit the city and surrounding Ottawa Valley.
Commuters are advised to exercise caution as snow and ice pellets overnight have led to slippery and treacherous road conditions. Environment Canada forecasts a challenging morning commute, with ice build-up of up to two millimetres possible on some surfaces, and a total snowfall and ice pellet accumulation of up to five centimetres.
The inclement weather is predicted to transition to rain around midday, providing some relief as temperatures are set to climb above freezing levels. This comes as a respite after the anticipated freezing rain, which alongside snow and ice pellets, is expected to create slick conditions on highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots. Environment Canada urges residents to “take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas.”
Adding to the transportation concerns, school buses in Ottawa are operational, but delays are a possibility due to the weather. Meanwhile, in Renfrew County, school transportation services in Zone 4 Madawaska-area are cancelled.
Freezing rain warnings like today’s are issued by Environment Canada to signal potential hazards to transportation and property, and are indicative of at least two hours of expected freezing rain.
Residents and commuters are encouraged to stay up-to-date with the latest alerts and forecasts from Environment Canada, as the situation may evolve throughout the day.
