❄️Winter Operations Update - Monday, December 9❄️

The following is information that was sent by the Director of Roads and Parking Services at the City to Members of Council regarding forecasted inclement weather conditions over the next 48 hours.

This information was provided to my office at 1:00pm ET on Dec. 9th.

Please exercise caution, particularly when travelling, as weather conditions can change suddenly. Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on updates from Environment Canada for up-to-date information on the storm as it progresses.

During a winter storm, please visit Ottawa.ca/winter for the most up-to-date information from the City.

Read to the bottom of this page to see frequently asked questions and links to more information.

Forecast and conditions
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for the Ottawa region. Precipitation is expected to begin as snow with up to 5 cm of snowfall accumulation possible by Monday evening. Snow is expected to become mixed with or change to freezing rain this evening before tapering to scattered flurries or freezing drizzle overnight. As temperatures are expected to remain near the freezing mark, there is a potential for freezing drizzle through the overnight hours into Tuesday, affecting the morning commute.

Changing conditions will make travel messy, be prepared to adjust and 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, especially if covered with snow.

Resident Support Needed

Looking ahead to Tuesday night into Wednesday, the temperature rises above zero, and there is a significant amount of rain on the way. We are asking for anyone who can to ensure that their local catch basin is clear and able to take in water. With over 100,000 catch basins in the City, we cannot do it alone and would appreciate any support you can offer.

Find your nearest catch basin using our catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let us know!

Reminders for Residents

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 have to travel should adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
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 – 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.

Next steps
Roads and Parking Services will continue to monitor this system and the transportation network. Freezing rain warnings or freezing drizzle advisories may be required as the event draws close.

We are committed to keeping you informed as we progress through the event and will provide another update tomorrow. Thank you for your patience and understanding as this freezing rain event moves into the region.

Stay safe and travel with care.

FAQs and More Information

How are pathways maintained? Why are some pathways not winter-maintained?

This is a topic that I have addressed in greater detail here: Snow Clearing and Pathway Maintenance — Ward 21 (Rideau-Jock)

How should I report an issue?

There is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. Winter road maintenance staff are on the job and their efforts are currently needed out in the community; service requests should only be created for emergencies.

Once a winter weather event has passed, should you become aware of an issue on the City-maintained transportation network, submit a service request by calling 3-1-1 or online here.

It is important to note that during a storm when the snow is still falling, during a declared Significant Weather Event, or prior to the maintenance quality standards timelines being exceeded as per the graphic above, reports to 3-1-1 do not lead to quicker action. In particular, during a Significant Weather Event, all available resources will be deployed, and residents are asked to refrain from calling 3-1-1 or creating a service request for anything other than an emergency so that City staff can better address the most pressing issues.

If you are having trouble contacting or receiving assistance from the City, my office can assist with reporting issues identified by residents. My office is best reached by email at ward21@ottawa.ca.

Please note that roads and sidewalks are maintained to the quality standards that are outlined above; I do not have the power to direct plow drivers in their operations or routes.

Can I check whether a winter parking ban is in effect?

Information regarding winter parking bans, including whether such a ban is in effect, is available here: Winter parking | City of Ottawa

Where can I get more information?

Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on updates from Environment Canada for up-to-date information on the storm as it progresses.