Saturday marks the first day of winter and the nation’s capital has hit a deep freeze, with temperatures feeling like minus 24 with the windchill.
“We’re going to see some cool temperatures. In fact, this is air that was on the prairies that brought a lot of cold air,” said David Phillips, senior climatologist with Environment Canada.”
“It really began in the Arctic and moved down south.”
Phillips says the next few days will be the coldest of the season, which is also good for the future of the Rideau Canal, that currently has no confirmed opening date.
“This is good ice-growing weather. (people must feel thrilled) in regards to the Rideau Canal because this is something they didn’t see at all last year,” said Phillips.
It’s also likely to be a white Christmas with the snow staying over the next few days.
There’s no official warnings or alert in place, but officials say you should bundle up and wear layers to avoid the risk of frost bite.
There are also overnight shelters and warming spaces available within the City of Ottawa for those who require assistance.
More to come