Ottawa could see 2-4 cm of snow, up to 25 mm of rain over next two days

Environment Canada warns Ottawa could see 15 to 25 mm of rain tonight and Wednesday. A person walks down Elgin Street in Ottawa in this file photo from May 2022 (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang)

Ottawa will see a mixed bag of weather over the next three days, with 2 to 4 cm of snow today, up to 25 mm of rain on Wednesday and temperatures warming up to 9 C on Thursday.

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Ottawa and eastern Ontario, warning there is a risk of freezing rain tonight followed by rainfall and mild temperatures.

“Rain is expected beginning tonight. There is a risk of freezing rain, as temperatures may be below the freezing mark as the rain begins,” Environment Canada said in a statement.

“Temperatures should quickly rise above 0 C, and the rain will continue through Wednesday. Rain combined with melting snow and the limited ability of the frozen ground to absorb this rainfall may lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas and water pooling on roads.”

The forecast calls for periods of snow to begin this morning, with snow, ice pellets and periods of rain this afternoon. Environment Canada says Ottawa could see 2 to 4 cm of snow and ice pellets. High 1 C.

Periods of rain or drizzle tonight. There is a risk of freezing rain. Temperature steady near 1 C.

Wednesday will see periods of rain or drizzle. Rainfall amounts 10 to 15 mm. High 5 C.

The rain will continue Wednesday night.

Thursday will be cloudy with a 60 per cent chance of showers. High 9 C.

The outlook for Friday calls for a mix of sun and cloud. High 2 C.

Saturday will see a mix of sun and cloud with a chance of flurries. High 0 C.

The normal temperatures for this time of year are a high of 0 C and a low of -9 C.

Rising water levels

The heavy rain and mild temperatures in the forecast for the next three days may cause water levels to rise on lakes and rivers across the region.

The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority says the warmer temperatures and precipitation will “initiative snowmelt, increase runoff and contribute to rising water levels” on the Rideau River and other lakes in the region.

“While significant flooding is not anticipated, localized flooding in low-lying areas may occur and ice conditions may become unstable,” the conservation authority said. “Residents are advised to exercise caution near waterbodies, as slippery banks, shifting ice, and fast-moving water could pose safety hazards.”