City of Ottawa says all systems go as freezing rain hits the region

Environment Canada issued a freezing rain waring Saturday morning, urging people to take caution.

The weather agency is noting that between two to five millimetres of ice accretion is possible on Nov. 15. It’s expected to happen in the afternoon and evening.

Rain showers are impacting southern Ontario, but along the Ottawa River and in the valley, surface temperatures will be close to the freezing mark, the release reads.

“Icy surfaces could be difficult to detect. There is risk of injury due to slips and falls,” it warns. “Be very careful if walking or driving.”

The warning comes less than a week after Ottawa recorded 11.7 cm of snow, a new record for Nov. 9, according to Environment Canada. The previous record of 10.2 cm was set in 1897.

Saturday is also the first day where winter parking bans can be called across the city.

The city says bans may be called when Environment Canada predicts seven centimetres of snow or more.

There is no parking allowed on city streets when a winter weather parking ban is in effect. Residential parking permit holders are exempt unless temporary ‘no parking’ signs are in place for snow removal,” the city says. “Certain business areas are also exempt from parking bans to ensure that residents can continue to visit their favourite local businesses during the snowy season.”

Overnight bans are in effect from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. The city says it will call the ban into effect by 9 a.m. Daytime bans, which take place between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. and will be called by 3:30 p.m. the day before.

Residents can visit the city’s website for a list of places to park when bans are in effect.

The city says it will also declare a Significant Weather Event when hazardous weather has the potential to impact city services. When this declaration is made, maintenance timelines may not be met.

During a Significant Weather Event, the city says all resources are deployed to clear snow and ice; however, weather conditions may require more time than usual.

The city is also reminding those with a fire hydrant on their property that it is their responsibility to make sure it is clear of snow.