OTTAWA, March 10, 2026 — A high-impact freezing rain warning has been issued for the Ottawa–Gatineau region as a prolonged ice storm is expected to move through the area on Wednesday, bringing hazardous travel conditions and the potential for widespread power outages. As a result, all school buses in the Ottawa region have been cancelled, and Gatineau area schools are closed on Wednesday.
Orange Weather Alert
Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued an Orange alert as a significant freezing rain event will begin early Wednesday morning and could last through the night, with some areas experiencing up to 24 hours of freezing rain.
What makes the alert Orange?
- Severe weather is likely to cause significant damage, disruption, or health impacts
- Impacts are major, widespread and/or may last a few days
- Orange alerts are uncommon
Up to 20 mm of Ice Possible
Forecasters warn the storm could produce 10 to 20 millimetres of ice accretion, enough to coat roads, trees, and power lines with heavy ice.
The storm is being driven by a series of low-pressure systems moving through southern Ontario. Freezing rain may fall heavily at times, and in some cases precipitation may not freeze immediately on impact, which could lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas before temperatures drop again.
Temperatures in some parts of eastern Ontario, particularly near the St. Lawrence River, may rise above freezing later in the day, which could reduce the amount of ice accumulation in those locations.
Dangerous Travel Conditions Expected
Officials warn that roads, sidewalks, and parking lots will likely become icy and slippery, creating dangerous conditions for both drivers and pedestrians.
The storm is expected to have a major impact on rush-hour travel, and authorities are urging residents to avoid unnecessary trips if possible.
Heavy ice buildup may also cause tree damage and falling branches, and prolonged power outages are possible as ice accumulates on power lines and infrastructure.
Residents are being advised to stay away from downed power lines and report any hazards immediately.
School Bus Cancellations Across Ottawa
Due to the dangerous weather conditions, all school buses and vans have been cancelled across Ottawa for Wednesday, March 11.
The cancellations affect the city’s major school boards, including:
- Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)
- Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB)
- Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO)
- Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est (CECCE)
Despite the transportation cancellations, schools remain open for students who can safely make their way to class.
Families are encouraged to carefully assess travel conditions before deciding whether children should attend school.
Schools Closed in Gatineau
All schools are closed in the following Gatineau area school boards:
- Centre de services scolaire des Portages de l’Outaouais
- Centre de services scolaire au Cœur-des-Vallées
- Centre de services scolaire des Draveurs
- Centre de services scolaire des Hauts Bois de l’Outaouais
Additionally, the Western Quebec School Board says all of its schools are closed with the exception of G. Theberge in Témiscaming, Noranda School in Rouyn-Noranda, and Golden Valley School in Val d’Or, which remain open.
Stay Alert and Monitor Updates
Officials urge residents to monitor weather alerts and forecasts as conditions evolve throughout the day.
Anyone who observes severe weather can report it to Environment Canada by emailing ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or posting reports on X using #ONStorm.
With significant ice accumulation possible and hazardous conditions expected across the region, residents are advised to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and prepare for potential power outages as the storm develops.
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