Eastern Ontario is currently grappling with the effects of a severe winter storm, which has prompted widespread school bus cancellations and travel advisories throughout the region. According to Environment Canada, heavy snow began blanketing eastern Ontario late Tuesday night, leading to considerable disruptions on Wednesday morning, January 29, 2025.
The winter weather travel advisory encompasses areas including Ottawa, Pembroke, Arnprior, Carleton Place, Smiths Falls, and their surrounding regions. Environment Canada indicated snowfall amounts could reach anywhere from five to ten centimeters, depending on the area, with reports of 5 centimeters recorded at the Ottawa Airport as early as 6 AM Wednesday.
“Snow, at times heavy, will taper to flurries later this morning,” warned Environment Canada. Such conditions significantly impacted the morning commute, with visibility reduced at times due to the heavy snowfall. The agency cautioned, “The morning commute will be impacted. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways and parking lots may become icy and slippery.”
By Wednesday, numerous incidents of road collisions were reported across Ottawa, adding to the day's difficulties for commuters. A notable crash occurred at 7:30 AM on Highway 417 eastbound at Walkley, which closed two lanes of traffic. Emergency crews were also dispatched to respond to another crash on Highway 174 westbound at Blair Road. The adverse weather conditions made driving treacherous, raising concerns about safety on major routes.
School authorities have announced cancellations for all schools across Ottawa and eastern Ontario. Exact protocols for bus cancellations can vary between school boards, prompting parents and guardians to check with their respective institutions for specific instructions. This has left many students at home as parents navigate this challenging weather.
Further north and west, areas including Trenton and Belleville are feeling the storm's impact. Trenton recorded accumulations of up to 12 centimeters by Tuesday, which has led to similar advisories and cancellations. An Alberta clipper weather system is primarily responsible for this late-January storm, moving quickly from the northwest across the region.
Visibility on roads has been poor, necessitating drivers to adjust to fast-changing conditions. Environment Canada advises, “Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions.” Motorists are urged to slow down and maintain distance when visibility is compromised, as numerous incidents highlighting the storm's severity have become apparent.
With relief not on the immediate horizon, forecasts indicate continuing snow flurries throughout the week. On Wednesday night, temperatures are expected to plummet, providing added challenges for transportation and safety. The temperature is projected to reach lows of -21 degrees Celsius, combined with wind chill making it feel even colder at -28 degrees.
The snowstorm's aftermath will likely continue to affect daily life and transit throughout eastern Ontario. Many residents are advised to remain cautious and monitor weather updates closely. Looking forward, Thursday promises partly cloudy skies with additional chances of flurries, hinting at what may be more winter weather as February approaches.
Overall, the storm serves as a reminder of the harsh winter climate faced by Canadians, particularly those living across Eastern Ontario. Given the forecasts and existing conditions, this winter weather advisory remains relevant as communities brace for more potential snowfall.