Environment Canada warns of slick road conditions in Ottawa area

Holiday travellers should exercise caution when driving this weekend as wet, windy and cold conditions will make for slick roads. CTV’s Josh Marano reports.

With a mix of rain, snow, wind and cool temperatures in store for the Ottawa area this weekend, Environment Canada is warning of slick road conditions.

“All that rain and melted snow on the roads could freeze, create some icy conditions locally, specifically on any untreated surfaces,” Environment Canada meteorologist Steven Flisfeder told CTV News Ottawa.

Flisfeder says road conditions can change rapidly and suggests leaving plenty of space between vehicles when driving.

Wind gusts are expected to reach 60 km/h, and the meteorologist warns the mix of snow and wind could cause visibility issues.

“That will add to the potential for visibility reductions on the roads with blowing snow, along with those wind gusts,” Flisfeder said.

With high winds, cool temperatures and snow expected, Flisfeder recommends staying indoors this weekend.

“If you are outside, those dropping temperatures with those strong winds will make it feel even colder. So, once again, limiting your time outdoors as best you can,” he said.

• Hourly and 7-day forecast on our CTVNewsOttawa.ca weather hub

Weekend forecast

Envrionment Canada weather forecast for Friday called for rain during the day followed by flurries in the afternoon.

Ottawa’s temperature reached a high of 9 C, but it will fall to -2 C in the afternoon and reach an overnight low of -8 C. The windchill will reach -8 in the evening and -17 overnight.

Temperatures will remain below zero throughout the weekend, and periods of snow are expected.

Saturday’s forecast calls for periods of snow with a high of -3 C.

Sunday’s forecast predicts a high of -2 C with a 60 per cent chance of snow.

With files from CTV’s Josh Marano.

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