Winter Operations Update -Saturday, February 15
This update was prepared on February 15, 2025 using information retrieved at 11:40am ET. It was updated again on February 16, 2025 at 9:46am ET to reflect the City’s decision to put a winter weather parking ban into effect.
This morning, Environment Canada issued a Winter Storm Warning for Ottawa. Up to 40cm of snow is possible this weekend with snowfall expected to be particularly heavy on Sunday, February 16.
The City’s Significant Weather Event remains in effect due to the ongoing storm.
The City has declared a winter weather parking ban. The ban will be in effect on February 16 as of 10:00am and until further notice across Ottawa; please pay close attention to updates on the City's website and social media channels. Information regarding winter parking bans, including whether such a ban is in effect or lifted, is available here: Winter parking | City of Ottawa
Forecast and conditions
Snowfall accumulation this weekend is expected to range between 25 to 40 cm with rates of 3-6cm per hour expected during the storm’s peak.
The storm is expected to begin on the afternoon or evening of Saturday, February 15, with 5-10cm expected by late this evening. The storm will continue into Sunday evening with 20-30 additional centimeters likely on Sunday.
Winds are strong, gusting to 60 km/h. Visibility may at times be significantly reduced due to heavy and blowing snow.
Environment Canada is warning that travel will be hazardous and is not recommended, particularly on Sunday. Residents are encouraged to please avoid any unnecessary travel and exercise caution when travelling this weekend.
For more information about this storm, please use the below links or scroll down further to review some frequently asked questions.
FAQs and More Information
These quality standards apply during most winter weather events. However, this is not the case during a declared Significant Weather Event. 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.
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
What is happening with buses and transit?
During major storms, OC Transpo may implement the Severe Storm Schedule for buses. The Severe Storm Schedule is implemented for buses on weekdays when 31 cm or more of snow is expected. The Severe Storm Schedule does not apply to O-Train service, which will run on a normal schedule.
You can learn more about the Sever Storm Schedule here : Severe Storm Schedule
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.
During a winter storm, please visit Ottawa.ca/winter for the most up-to-date information from the City.