Two separate storm systems will be bringing almost 20 centimetres of snow to the nation’s capital over the next two days.
According to Environment Canada, the city can anticipate between 2 to 4 cm of snow on the ground by Wednesday morning. It’s possible, the weather agency notes, there is a risk of freezing drizzle Tuesday evening as temperatures hover near – 7 C.
The wind chill will make it feel like -12.
On Wednesday, the forecast shows 10-15 cm of snow should fall by the evening hours. Temperatures should be around -2 C, with the wind chill making it feel like -13.
The two storms are Alberta Clippers, a fast-moving low-pressure system that comes from Alberta and moves through the Plains and the Great Lakes region during the winter.
It usually brings light snow, strong winds and colder temperatures along with it.
Rideau Canal launches opening date contest
Earlier this week, temperatures dropped, and the wind chill increased in Ottawa, making for great working conditions for those on the Rideau Canal Skateway.
In an email to CityNews, the National Capital Commission (NCC) said that the consistently cold temperatures have given teams a “good head start.”
“If the cold hangs on, we should be able to begin ice-building operations on the Skateway soon,” a spokesperson said.
Until then, the NCC is imploring people to stay off the ice as it is too thin.
“Once the season gets underway, visitors will be able to enjoy the Skateway in more ways than just skating, thanks to the designated walking lane along Queen Elizabeth Driveway, from Waverly to Bank and Lakeview to Library, including Dow’s Lake,” the email reads.
People excited for the season to get underway can start guessing in the NCC’s annual opening date contest, which launched much earlier than last year.
“We usually launch it when the weather gets very cold, so we seized the opportunity created by the polar vortex to launch a bit earlier this year,” the spokesperson said.
There is a chance to win a pair of Rideau Canal mitts.
We will draw three winners from all those who correctly predict the date.
Comment your prediction below ⬇
*Must be located in Canada to be eligible.
???? For your safety, please stay off the ice until the Skateway officially opens.
— Rideau Canal Skateway (@NCC_Skateway) December 4, 2025
