Ottawa’s Weather Snapshot
OTTAWA – WEATHER DESK – The morning begins on a crisp note, with the thermometer reading -8°C, though it feels like -11°C with the light northeast wind at 5 km/h. Humidity is at 84%, and the barometric pressure is rising at 103.3 kPa, indicating stable, though chilly, conditions. Visibility is an impressive 24 km, ideal for those braving the cold for early errands.
Today’s Forecast: Bundle Up for a Cloudy Chill
Expect a mix of clouds and sun as the day progresses, with winds picking up slightly to 15 km/h. The temperature will hover around -10°C, but the wind chill will make it feel more like -19°C this morning and -13°C in the afternoon. It’s a perfect day for thick winter jackets, scarves, and your coziest mittens. The UV index is 1, so sunglasses might not be necessary unless you’re dealing with glare off the snow.
Tonight: A Quietly Cool Evening
As the evening unfolds, the skies will shift to partly cloudy conditions before clouding over completely. With winds staying gentle at 15 km/h, the low will drop to -11°C, and it will feel closer to -16°C.
Weekend Weather: Freezing Rain Makes an Entrance
Saturday, December 28: Cloudy and Slick
The day starts off cloudy, with freezing drizzle and rain likely by morning. Winds will remain mild at 15 km/h, with a high of -2°C, though it will feel colder, like -15°C in the morning and -7°C later in the day. With the UV index at 1, a dull, overcast vibe will persist.
By night, prepare for periods of freezing rain or rain, as the temperature climbs slightly to -1°C.
Sunday, December 29: A Wintry Mix Melts
Warmer air sweeps in on Sunday, pushing the high to +5°C with continued freezing rain or rain throughout the day. As night falls, rain persists, and the low stays balmy at +4°C.
Looking Ahead: A Wet End to December
Monday promises cloudy skies with a 60% chance of showers and a high of +5°C, while Tuesday, the last day of 2024, will be cloudy with rain or snow, and temperatures holding steady at +3°C during the day and +1°C overnight.
Historic Ottawa Weather Trivia
Did you know the record high for this date was 8.3°C in 1982, while the record low was a bone-chilling -32.6°C in 1933? This year’s weather feels like a middle ground with its frosty but manageable conditions.