Up to 3mm of Freezing Rain Expected in Ottawa-Gatineau Tonight
Environment Canada has issued a freezing rain warning for Ottawa and Gatineau, as a low-pressure system passes through eastern Ontario on Monday.
According to a bulletin issued on Monday afternoon, freezing rain might be intense in certain locations overnight and will turn to rain by Tuesday morning.
"Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots may become icy and slippery," Environment Canada stated.
"Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas."
The warning comes after a special weather statement was issued for the nation's capital earlier today.
Freezing rain warnings are issued when rain falls in sub-zero temperatures, causing ice accumulation and icy surfaces.
The City of Ottawa announced Monday afternoon that its winter operations staff is preparing for the freezing rain.
"When the freezing rain starts, teams will work to treat sidewalks, roadways, and our winter cycling network. This is our first equipment deployment of the season, and we ask for your patience as operations may take longer than usual while staff adjust to their new routes and the changing weather conditions," according to a news release.
According to staff, the Chief William Commanda Bridge will stay open for the time being but may be closed if conditions become hazardous.
The weather warning is in effect for Smiths Falls, Perth, the Ottawa Valley, including Pembroke and Petawawa, as well as sections of western Quebec.
According to Environment Canada, Algonquin Provincial Park might receive five to ten centimeters of snow by Tuesday.
On Tuesday, Ottawa may experience its first recorded snowfall of the season, with flurries anticipated in the evening at 40% likelihood. Low of - 4 degrees Celsius.
Tuesday's daytime conditions will be rainy and gloomy, with a 30% chance of showers. A high of 6 degrees Celsius.
Wednesday will be overcast, with a 30% chance of flurries and a 40% chance of snow tonight.
The long-range prediction predicts snow throughout the rest of the week and into the weekend.
Last year, Ottawa had its first cumulative snowfall on October 30, with 0.2 cm recorded.