Ottawa residents waking up Friday morning may want to keep the winter boots by the door, spring's official arrival isn't stopping one more significant snowfall from rolling through the region.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement covering most of eastern Ontario and the Gatineau area, warning that five to ten centimetres of occasionally heavy snow are on the way. The precipitation is expected to start and peak Friday morning before tapering off.
What to Expect
The snowfall is forecast to be heavy at times, which could create slippery and reduced-visibility conditions during the morning commute. While five to ten centimetres isn't a record-breaker for Ottawa, the timing, right as temperatures are otherwise trending upward, means wet, heavy snow that can quickly accumulate on roads, sidewalks, and transit stops.
Drivers should expect slower travel times on major routes including the 417 and Highway 174, as well as on local arterials across the city. OC Transpo riders may see delays, particularly on routes that run through less-cleared suburban areas.
Spring Snow Is Very On-Brand for Ottawa
If you're frustrated, you're not alone, but you are very much in Ottawa. The capital is famous for late-season snowfalls that arrive just when everyone has mentally checked out of winter. March snow events are a rite of passage here, and locals know better than to pack away the shovels until at least late April.
That said, this system isn't expected to be a prolonged event. The snow should clear through the day Friday, with conditions improving into the weekend.
Tips for Getting Through It
Here are a few reminders for navigating a late-March snowfall in Ottawa:
- Give yourself extra time: the first snow after a mild stretch tends to catch drivers off guard.
- Check the City of Ottawa's road conditions page before heading out for real-time updates on plowing and salting operations.
- Transit riders: Follow OC Transpo on social media for service alerts.
- Pedestrians: Watch for icy patches under fresh snow, especially on shaded sidewalks and crosswalks.
- Cyclists: The multi-use pathways along the Rideau Canal and Ottawa River may not be cleared right away, plan alternate routes.
Looking Ahead
After Friday's system passes, milder temperatures are expected to return for the weekend, which should make quick work of whatever accumulates. Spring in Ottawa is very much still on its way. It's just taking a brief detour through the snow globe first.
Keep an eye on the Environment Canada weather page and the City of Ottawa's live winter operations map for the latest updates throughout the day.
Source: CBC Ottawa / Environment Canada special weather statement.
