The city experienced a dramatic start to winter this weekend, as the first snowfall of the season delivered a historic blow to long‑standing records. On Sunday, Nov. 9th, the Environment Canada weather station at Ottawa Macdonald‑Cartier International Airport logged 11.7 centimetres of snow, more than double the previous record of 5.8 cm set in 1967.
It was a picturesque scene, with snow covered trees glistening under crisp skies and mild temperatures making it perfect for outdoor fun. Ottawa seemed to be getting an early start on the festive season, as residents took in the wintery beauty.
That said, the snow didn’t just transform the city into a winter wonderland. In a social media post, the Ontario Provincial Police reported addressing 120 collisions across the province, including 19 in the Ottawa region, many of which involved minor injuries. Officials emphasized that the rapid shift in conditions may have caught some drivers unprepared.
For Ottawa residents, the message is clear: winter has arrived early and unexpectedly. The record‑breaking snowfall serves as a reminder to prepare vehicles, check tires, and stay alert to fast changing conditions on the road. With the seasons capable of flipping in a matter of hours, being ready for snow, even this early in November, may be more important than ever.
