More of Rideau Canal Skateway opened Tuesday afternoon
Posted Feb 20, 2024 03:59:21 PM.
Last Updated Feb 20, 2024 03:59:26 PM.
Another section of Rideau Canal has been opened to skaters starting at 2 p.m. on Tuesday.
The National Capital Commission (NCC) announced that the stretch between Pretoria and Wavery is now ready. However, they warned skaters of rough patches under the Pretoria and 417 bridges.
The skateway was first re-opened on Sunday for only six hours after being closed for over three weeks. It then had a secondary opening day on Monday at noon.
Like in 2023, Ottawa has been facing an unseasonably warm winter which has made keeping the world’s largest outdoor skating rink open difficult.
While Environment Canada forecasts a cloudy day with flurries and a high of -5 C on Tuesday, Wednesday will be much warmer.
The national weather service is forecasting a sunny day with a high of 5 C. Historically, the average high for Feb. 21 is -3.2 C. Overnight they’re predicting a low of 0 C and the city may even see rain showers.
Thursday is no better for ice conditions, with Environment Canada forecasting another day with an average high of 5 C alongside flurries or more rain showers. Precipitation continues overnight with an expected low of 3 C.
Days of possible rain, along with above zero temperatures, could force the skateway to close again this week as ice conditions deteriorate.
Typically, temperatures need to hover at least between -10 C to -20 C for optimal conditions, according to the NCC.
