Get Ready, Ottawa! The final weekend of March is shaping up to be a wild ride as a significant winter storm is set to hit the capital. Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement, warning that a “potent spring ice storm” is likely to sweep through Ottawa and eastern Ontario starting late Friday.
What to Expect
The forecast is predicting a serious ice event, with 5 to 15 millimeters of freezing rain expected in many areas. In fact, some regions could even see up to 20 mm! This means slippery roads, potential power outages, and a whole lot of ice buildup. Environment Canada has noted that confidence is rising in this widespread and prolonged freezing rain event, particularly for central and eastern Ontario between Parry Sound and Kingston.
Not only will we be dealing with freezing rain, but some areas might also experience 5 to 15 cm of snowfall and ice pellet accumulations. So, whether you’re a fan of snow or just want to stay cozy indoors, it looks like the weather has something in store for everyone.
The Uncertainty Factor
The swath of maximum ice accretion remains uncertain at this point, but the potential for a high-impact event is growing. The Weather Network has pointed out that Ottawa currently sits on the edge between a major ice storm and a major snowstorm. A slight shift northward in the storm system could drastically change the outcome, leading us into either a winter wonderland or a messy ice-covered landscape.
The Daily Breakdown
Here’s what you can expect leading up to this icy weekend:
- Wednesday: Mainly cloudy with a 60% chance of flurries or showers. High of 2°C.
- Thursday: Starting off sunny, but clouds will roll in by the afternoon. High of 8°C.
- Friday: Cloudy skies will dominate the day, with a high of 3°C. Snow is expected to begin Friday night.
- Saturday: Mainly cloudy, with a high of 0°C.
- Sunday: The storm will likely bring freezing rain or snow, maintaining a high of 0°C.
For reference, the normal temperatures for this time of year typically hover around a high of 6°C and a low of -4°C.
Prepare for Impact
With such significant weather on the horizon, it’s essential to prepare accordingly. Stock up on essentials, stay informed via local forecasts, and make sure your emergency kit is ready just in case power outages occur.
Stay safe out there, Ottawa! Whether you’re hunkering down at home with hot cocoa or heading out to enjoy the wintery chaos, remember: this storm is one for the books!
