Thunderstorms possible as winds bring cold front to Ottawa
Posted Mar 16, 2026 04:00:39 PM.
Last Updated Mar 16, 2026 04:00:49 PM.
A balmy start to the March break is believed to turn frigid quickly, according to Environment Canada.
The forecast is calling for risks of severe thunderstorms and rain showers on Monday evening, with a possible 15 to 25 mm of rain. The weather authority notes that wind gusts are ushering in a cold front expected to increase the risk of the storms.
“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain,” it reads.
Temperatures hovered around 14 C on Monday, and the 50 km/h wind is bringing “sharp artic” temperatures, which fell rapidly over the day. As the temperatures drop, the forecast shows snow is possible, with 2 to 4 cm predicted.
“Driving conditions may be difficult. Local utility outages are possible. Damage to roofs, fences, branches or soft shelters is possible,” it notes.
On Tuesday morning, wind gusts could be near 70 km/h. Temperatures are expected to feel like -15 and continue dropping into Tuesday.
