Ottawa Weather: 5–10 cm Snow Expected on First Day of Spring
Ottawa is set to welcome the first day of spring with a blast of winter, as 5 to 10 centimetres of snow is expected to fall across the capital and Gatineau region on Friday, March 20. According to Environment Canada, snowfall will begin in the morning and become heavy at times, creating challenging conditions across eastern Ontario.
Snowfall Timing and Intensity
The system began moving east early Friday, with snow already reported in areas like Bancroft by around 7:30 a.m., according to Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation. As it reaches Ottawa, the heaviest snowfall is expected during the morning hours, coinciding with peak commute times.
Environment Canada says snowfall rates could reach 2 to 3 centimetres per hour, meaning rapid accumulation on roads and sidewalks. Total snowfall in Ottawa is expected to reach around 5 cm during the day, with higher localized totals possible across the Ottawa Valley.
Travel Disruptions and Safety Concerns
The timing of this weather system raises concerns about the morning commute. Authorities warn that roads, highways, and walkways may become snow-covered and slippery, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of accidents.
Drivers and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution, allow extra travel time, and stay updated on changing conditions. The snowfall could have a noticeable impact on traffic flow across major routes in the city.
Special Weather Statement Across the Region
A special weather statement has been issued for Ottawa, Gatineau, and much of eastern Ontario. These statements, shown in grey on official weather maps, indicate weather events that are notable but do not meet the criteria for more severe warnings.
The advisory stretches from Toronto to Cornwall and into the Ottawa Valley, highlighting the widespread nature of the system. However, western Quebec alerts do not extend into areas like Gracefield and regions further north.
Regional Snowfall Breakdown
Snowfall amounts will vary across different parts of eastern Ontario:
- Toronto to Belleville: 2–5 cm of snow with a risk of freezing rain
- Kingston, Brockville, Cornwall: 5–10 cm of snow
- Ottawa and Ottawa Valley: 5–10 cm of snow expected
Meanwhile, Belleville has its own advisory warning of lighter snowfall combined with the possibility of freezing rain, which could further complicate travel conditions.
City of Ottawa Deploys Snow Response Teams
The City of Ottawa has confirmed that its snowplow fleet will be deployed as accumulation begins. Crews will focus on clearing and treating:
- Priority roads and bus routes
- Sidewalks and pedestrian areas
- The Transitway and winter cycling network
- City facilities, including libraries and community centres
Parks Maintenance teams will also be active, ensuring emergency service locations and public facilities remain accessible throughout the snowfall.
Weather Conditions Through the Day
The forecast for Friday includes periods of snow in the morning, followed by cloudy skies with a 40% chance of flurries later in the day. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 0°C, keeping conditions cold enough for snow to accumulate.
By the evening, skies will remain cloudy with continued chances of flurries, while temperatures are set to drop to around -9°C, raising the risk of icy surfaces overnight.
Weekend Outlook: Mixed Weather Ahead
The snowy start to spring will transition into a mix of conditions over the weekend:
- Saturday: Mix of sun and cloud, high 5°C
- Sunday: Periods of snow or rain, high 2°C
- Monday: Cloudy with 30% chance of flurries, high 0°C
- Tuesday: Mix of sun and cloud with flurries, high 1°C
These fluctuating conditions highlight the unpredictable nature of late March weather in Ottawa, where winter and spring often overlap.
Seasonal Context: Spring Begins, But Winter Lingers
Spring officially begins at 10:46 a.m. on March 20, yet Ottawa’s weather tells a different story. Snowfall on the first day of the season is not unusual, as the city typically experiences temperatures around 4°C during the day and -5°C at night this time of year.
Late-season snow events are common, as cold air masses can still dominate the region despite increasing daylight and gradual warming trends.
What Residents Should Keep in Mind
With winter conditions returning briefly, residents are encouraged to stay prepared. Keeping winter clothing accessible, monitoring weather updates, and adjusting travel plans can help minimize disruptions.
This snowfall serves as a reminder that in Ottawa, the transition from winter to spring is rarely smooth. While warmer days are on the horizon, sudden snow events remain a part of the seasonal shift.
For the latest updates and real-time alerts, residents can continue monitoring official forecasts from The Weather Network and local authorities.
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