Significant and ‘potentially critical’ freezing rain possible in Ottawa, Outaouais regions

CTV’s Austin Lee shares the full local 6 p.m. forecast for Sunday, March 8, 2026.

Environment Canada says there is potential for a “significant” and “potentially critical” band of freezing rain this week that will likely bring outages and travel disruptions in eastern Ontario and the Outaouais and Laurentians regions of Quebec.

The forecaster issued a special weather statement on Monday saying the Ottawa area could see a prolonged period of freezing rain from Tuesday night or Wednesday morning through to Wednesday night, potentially lasting 24 hours, bringing 10 to 20 millimetres of ice buildup.

• Ottawa weather: Current temperatures and 7-day forecast

“A series of low pressure systems will lead to significant freezing rain across parts of southern Ontario. Ice build up is likely to cause tree branches to break. Widespread utility outages are possible,” the weather statement says. “Freezing rain may fall heavily at times. In this case, the precipitation may not freeze immediately, which may lead to localized flooding in low lying areas.”

The statement is in effect across eastern Ontario and in Gatineau.

This follows a special weather statement issued on Sunday for western and southern Quebec, warning of between 20 and 30 millimetres of freezing rain from Wednesday to Thursday.

The statement includes Outaouais communities north of Gatineau, including Chelsea, Wakefield and Cantley.

“The event could last up to 24 hours and paralyze some services,” the statement says.

“The weather will remain cold for the following days, which can complicate and delay the full restoration of services.”

Environment Canada says delays and cancellations in transport are likely.

“Surfaces will become icy and increase the risk of falls and injuries. Prolonged power outages are likely. Ice build-up increases the risk of breaking tree branches,” Environment Canada says.

The forecaster says to consider delaying or cancelling non-essential travel.

“Freezing rain warnings are likely to be issued as the event draws nearer,” Environment Canada says.

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