Ottawa/Gatineau: Environment Canada has issued a major ice storm warning for large parts of eastern Ontario, cautioning residents to prepare for widespread power outages and dangerous travel conditions starting Friday evening. The storm is expected to intensify overnight Friday, with freezing rain continuing through Saturday and gradually changing to rain by late Sunday.

Extent of the Storm and Affected Areas

The most severe impact of the storm is expected to be felt south of Ottawa-Gatineau, where freezing rain warnings are in effect for communities such as Bancroft, Belleville, Brockville, and Sharbot Lake.

Environment Canada predicts that these areas could see between one to two centimetres of ice accumulation, with some locations possibly receiving as much as five to 15 millimetres of ice buildup. Such ice accumulation poses a serious threat to power lines, tree branches, and road infrastructure, increasing the likelihood of widespread outages and travel disruptions.

Timeline and Severity of the Storm

The ice storm is forecasted to begin Friday evening and reach its peak intensity overnight into Saturday morning. While freezing rain may subside temporarily during the day on Saturday, it is expected to return with renewed intensity on Sunday, before transitioning to rain by Sunday afternoon or evening.

Snowfall Warning for Northern Areas

Just north of the areas under the freezing rain warning, a snowfall warning is in effect, covering communities such as Barry’s Bay, Perth, and rural south Ottawa. These areas can expect 10 to 20 centimetres of snow between Friday night and Saturday.

Following the initial snowfall, these regions could also see up to one centimetre of freezing rain on Sunday, adding to the hazardous conditions.

Mixed Precipitation Further North

Further north, in areas such as Cornwall, Pembroke, and northern Ottawa, a special weather statement has been issued to account for a mix of snow and freezing rain. These regions are expected to receive 10 to 15 centimetres of snow Friday night and Saturday, followed by up to one centimetre of freezing rain on Sunday.

Environment Canada has indicated that the freezing rain warnings may extend to these northern areas as the storm system progresses, increasing the potential for hazardous conditions over a wider area.

Western Quebec to Be Affected as Well

Western Quebec is also bracing for the impact of the storm, though snowfall amounts are expected to be somewhat lower than in eastern Ontario. A special weather statement for the region forecasts five centimetres of snow Friday night, followed by freezing rain beginning early Sunday.

Significant Risk of Power Outages and Travel Disruption

The combination of heavy ice accumulation, snow, and freezing rain presents a serious risk to the region’s infrastructure. Power lines and tree branches weighed down by ice could lead to widespread power outages, while icy roads will create treacherous travel conditions throughout the weekend.

“Ice accumulations of this magnitude can bring down trees and power lines, leading to extended power outages,” Environment Canada warned. “Travel is expected to be extremely hazardous or impossible in some areas.”

Precautionary Measures Recommended

Residents in affected areas are being advised to take the following precautions:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during the storm, particularly overnight Friday and through Saturday when conditions will be at their worst.
• Stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, and medications, in case of prolonged power outages.
• Ensure generators and backup power sources are in working condition and ready for use.
• Keep mobile devices charged and have alternative means of communication available.

Authorities Urge Vigilance

Local emergency management authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and monitor updates from Environment Canada and local media outlets. Municipalities are preparing for potential power outages and road closures, with utility companies on high alert to respond to service disruptions.

Next Update Expected Soon

Environment Canada is expected to provide further updates as the storm progresses, with additional warnings likely to be issued as conditions evolve. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families throughout the duration of the storm.