The City of Ottawa is grappling with a prolonged cleanup operation following the most significant snowstorm of the winter season, which blanketed the region on Thursday. Officials are warning residents that snow removal efforts will take longer than usual to complete.
Major Winter Storm Paralyzes the Capital
Frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall gripped the Ottawa region, creating hazardous conditions and snarling traffic. The storm, which arrived on January 15, 2026, deposited a substantial amount of snow, challenging city crews and residents alike. The intensity of the weather event has set it apart as the largest single snowstorm Ottawa has experienced this winter.
City operations teams were deployed across Ottawa to clear major roadways and residential streets. However, the volume of snow has overwhelmed standard cleanup timelines. A city spokesperson emphasized that patience is required as crews work through the backlog, prioritizing emergency routes and transit corridors first.
More Snow on the Horizon Complicates Efforts
Complicating the recovery efforts is a new weather system forecast to hit the area. Meteorologists are predicting additional snowfall for Ottawa tonight, January 16. This impending weather threatens to undo progress made by cleanup crews and could lead to the declaration of further snow events or parking bans to facilitate clearing.
The situation mirrors challenges faced in other Canadian cities this week. Toronto is also digging out from a major winter storm with more snow expected Friday, while Montreal traffic was snarled as crews struggled to clear streets after a temperature drop.
Residents Urged to Exercise Caution
With challenging winter conditions persisting, authorities are urging Ottawa residents to take precautions. Drivers are advised to slow down, maintain extra distance between vehicles, and avoid unnecessary travel if possible. Pedestrians should also be wary of icy sidewalks and reduced visibility.
The extended cleanup timeline means residents may see snowbanks and narrowed streets in their neighborhoods for several days. The city is also eyeing more stringent parking-ban ticketing enforcement to ensure crews can effectively clear snow from neighborhood streets. Residents are encouraged to check the city's website for updates on parking bans and cleanup schedules.
