Winter Weather Update - Monday, January 27

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

This information was provided to my office at 2:35 pm ET on Jan 27th.

Environment Canada has issued a Weather Advisory for the Ottawa region as result of southwesterly winds that developed this morning and are expected to continue into this evening. The wind is expected to be 40 kilometres per hour and gusting up to 80 kilometres before gradually decreasing tonight. These strong wind gusts could toss loose objects or cause tree branches to break. Power outages are possible.

Additionally, there is a risk of snow squalls and local blowing snow late this evening and after midnight with 5 to 10 centimeters possible. Residents are reminded to exercise caution while walking, driving or cycling as visibility may be suddenly reduced. Be prepared to adjust to the changing conditions of the transportation network.

Resident Support Needed

• If your waste collection day is tomorrow, please try to place your bins out in the morning (by 7 am) as strong winds may toss them onto the roadways or sidewalks 

• Are you ready? To help ensure your safety and the safety of your family, now is a good time prepare your emergency kit.

Next steps

Roads and Parking Services will be monitoring conditions throughout the day, evening and overnight, particularly in the rural areas where there are open roadways. Resources will be deployed to clear and treat conditions on sidewalks, priority roads, bus routes, the Transitway and the winter cycling network. Please be patient as blowing and drifting snow will slow our operations, but rest assured, crews are hard at work.

Roads and Parking Services are also working closely with Forestry Services who will have staff on-call should assistance be required with fallen branches or trees on the transportation network.

Stay safe and travel with care.