Winter storm to blanket Ottawa with 10 cm of snow

Snow falls in the ByWard Market on Thursday evening. Environment Canada is calling for 10 cm of snow Thursday night and Friday morning. (Josh Pringle/CTV News Ottawa)

Police are advising motorists to adjust their speeds to the conditions, as a winter storm is set to blanket Ottawa with up to 10 cm of snow Thursday night and Friday morning.

Environment Canada issued a winter weather travel advisory for Ottawa, warning of heavy snow and reduced visibility.

"A Colorado low is expected to bring snow beginning this evening. The snow is expected to fall heavy at times before tapering off to periods of light snow early Friday morning," Environment Canada said in a statement.

"Travel may be hazardous due to sudden changes in the weather. Take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow."

City of Ottawa staff says snow plows will be deployed to clear priority sidewalks, priority roads and the winter cycling network overnight and into Friday.

The forecast calls for 10 cm of snow Thursday night, with another 2 cm of snow on Friday.

Snow at times heavy tonight. Temperature steady near minus 4 C.

Periods of light snow continuing on Friday. High minus 3 C.

A mix of sun and cloud is expected on Saturday, with a high of minus 2 C.

The outlook for Sunday calls for cloudy with a chance of flurries, high 0 C. Periods of snow are expected on Monday.

Ottawa received 26 cm of snow last Thursday and Friday.