Ottawa is bracing for a significant weather event as a freezing rain warning has been issued. Beginning overnight on Saturday, the city experienced a snowfall of about 11 centimeters from Friday night to Saturday morning. This storm marks the first part of a multi-stage weather system moving through the region. Ice pellets and freezing rain are expected to continue, with wind gusts reaching up to 15 km/h.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, this weather pattern is caused by a collision between cold air from the north and warm air from the south. Gina Ressler, a meteorologist with the agency, noted that this clash is contributing to the precipitation across Ontario, particularly in Ottawa. On Sunday, the forecast predicts total freezing rain accumulation may reach between five to ten millimeters.
As the city prepares for the icy conditions, Ottawa Public Works is mobilizing its snow-clearing fleet. They are focused on clearing priority roads and treating sidewalks to ensure safety for pedestrians and drivers alike. Hydro Ottawa is also on standby to handle potential power outages due to ice buildup on power lines.
However, the icy conditions have already resulted in dangerous travel situations. The Ontario Provincial Police reported numerous accidents across the region, including a fatal collision involving two tractor-trailers and a passenger vehicle, highlighting the severity of the weather impact. In just the early morning hours, the police responded to nearly 70 collisions, indicating the hazardous conditions on the roads.
Local officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. If you must go out, exercise caution: drive slowly, maintain distance, and be vigilant for hazards on the road. Social media has reignited conversations about winter driving safety, reminding everyone of the importance of preparing for adverse weather.
As we all adapt to unpredictable weather patterns, it’s useful to remember that the effects of climate change are increasingly influencing our seasons and weather events. This multifaceted storm serves as a reminder for residents to stay informed and safe as the cold weather persists.
For regular updates on weather conditions, you can follow [Environment and Climate Change Canada](https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change.html) and local news outlets.
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