Ottawa Daily News: December 22, 2025
Last Updated: December 22, 2025 at 8:00 AM ET
A deadly flu epidemic continues to grip Ottawa as three children have died from influenza this month alone, while the Senators celebrate a four-game winning streak and the city transitions into holiday mode with modified transit schedules.
Ottawa enters the Christmas holiday period facing both celebration and crisis. The capital’s healthcare system battles an unprecedented influenza outbreak that has claimed young lives and overwhelmed hospitals, even as residents prepare for festive gatherings. Meanwhile, sports fans have reason to cheer as both the Senators and Charge hockey teams delivered victories, and OC Transpo’s holiday schedule takes effect today. Here’s everything Ottawa residents need to know this Monday morning.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Three children have died from flu in Ottawa this month as hospitalizations surge 27-fold. The Senators crushed Boston 6-2 for their fourth straight win. OC Transpo’s holiday schedule begins today, with free transit on New Year’s Eve. Schools are closed through January 2.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Monday, December 22, 2025 |
| 🌡️ Weather | Cloudy, -5°C high, snow by noon, wind chill -24°C |
| 🚗 Traffic | OC Transpo holiday schedule in effect |
| 🎉 Top Event | Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne |
| 🏒 Sports | Senators win 6-2 vs Boston; Charge OT win vs Minnesota |
Flu Epidemic Claims Three Children’s Lives in Ottawa
Image: Ottawa hospitals are experiencing unprecedented flu-related admissions this December.
Ottawa is experiencing an unprecedented influenza crisis that has claimed the lives of three children and overwhelmed healthcare resources across the region. The deaths of children aged between five and nine years old within December alone have alarmed public health officials and prompted urgent calls for vaccination before holiday gatherings begin.
The scope of the crisis is staggering. The Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) reported 300 positive flu test results between December 1 and 10, representing a dramatic 27-fold increase compared to just 11 positive tests during the same period last year. The hospital has formally urged family physicians across the region to intensify their response to influenza cases.
Public Health officials have categorized flu activity in Ottawa as “very high” and continuing to escalate. Ontario-wide data reveals that as of the week ending December 13, 5,400 influenza cases were reported, with approximately 35 percent of all tests returning positive. Hospitalizations have nearly doubled in just one week, with Ontario reporting just under 1,000 influenza-related hospitalizations in the most recent reporting week.
Dr. Trevor Arnason, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health, emphasized the urgency of the situation. “We are still ahead of the holiday season, before people gather and visit one another, making this the most crucial time to get vaccinated,” Arnason stated. The current flu season has begun earlier than typical years.
Dr. Michelle Murti, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health, put the severity in perspective: “Last year for influenza, we thought that was one of the worst flu seasons we’ve seen in about 10 years. We are already surpassing last year in terms of hospitalizations for influenza.”
Health officials strongly recommend residents get vaccinated immediately, wash hands frequently, stay home when sick, and wear masks in crowded indoor spaces.
What To Do Now (Health)
Get your flu shot before Christmas gatherings—hospitalizations have nearly doubled in one week and three children have died this month. Most pharmacies remain open with walk-in vaccines. If you’re feeling unwell, stay home rather than risk spreading illness at family events.
Ottawa Senators Crush Boston Bruins for Fourth Straight Win
Image: The Ottawa Senators extended their winning streak with a dominant 6-2 victory over Boston.
The Ottawa Senators extended their winning streak to four consecutive games with a commanding 6-2 victory over the Boston Bruins on December 21. The dominant performance showcased the offensive firepower that has characterized the Senators’ recent resurgence.
Fabian Zetterlund led the offensive charge, recording two goals and an assist for the night. Dylan Cozens and Drake Batherson each posted three-point performances, demonstrating the depth of the Senators’ scoring lineup. The team displayed remarkable efficiency, particularly in the opening period when they scored three goals and effectively neutralized Boston’s attempts to rally.
Boston’s goaltender Joonas Korpisalo allowed five goals on just 17 shots before being replaced in the second period by Jeremy Swayman. Charlie McAvoy scored for the Bruins but the deficit proved insurmountable.
“We knew they were going to come hard and we weren’t ready for it,” Korpisalo commented after the loss. “Trailing 3-1 after the first is not ideal. We just need to get back to our identity, battle hard, play together and bring back the energy.”
The win positions the Senators favorably as the season enters its critical stretch, with the team demonstrating the consistency required to compete at elite levels. Follow our Ottawa Senators coverage for more team updates throughout the season.
Ottawa Charge Wins in Overtime, Snaps Losing Streak
The Ottawa Charge hockey team snapped a four-game losing streak with a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory against the defending PWHL champion Minnesota Frost. Rookie sensation Sarah Wozniewicz scored her first professional goal at 3:55 of overtime to secure the victory.
This win marks an important turning point for the franchise, which has struggled to find consistency throughout the season. Wozniewicz’s overtime heroics exemplify the potential of Ottawa’s roster as the Professional Women’s Hockey League approaches its mid-season critical juncture. Learn more about the Ottawa Charge PWHL season.
Ottawa 67’s Continue Dominant Season
The Ottawa 67’s continue their exceptional season, most recently dismantling the Brantford Bulldogs 6-0 on December 19. The decisive victory clinched the top position in their league standings.
Coach Dave Cameron’s team has assembled an unexpectedly strong roster, with observers noting that he has transformed a group of “unheralded” players into one of the Canadian Hockey League’s most formidable teams.
Upcoming home games:
- December 28 vs Kingston at 3 p.m.
- December 30 vs Guelph at 3 p.m.
Check out the complete Ottawa 67’s December home games guide for tickets and details.
Weather Outlook: Snow Expected Today
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: Ottawa residents should prepare for snow and cold temperatures throughout the holiday week.
Ottawa residents should prepare for winter weather as the capital experiences increasing cloud cover with precipitation developing throughout Monday. Current forecasts predict a high of minus 5°C with approximately 30 percent chance of morning flurries followed by snow beginning near noon.
Environment Canada warns of a 2-centimetre snowfall accumulation with a risk of freezing drizzle during afternoon hours. Winds are expected to increase to 15 kilometres per hour, creating a wind chill of minus 24°C during morning hours and moderating to minus 8°C by afternoon.
Tonight’s conditions will remain cold with cloudy skies, a 40 percent chance of light snow, and temperatures settling near minus 4°C.
Extended Forecast:
| Day | Conditions | High |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 23 | Snow, ~5cm, risk of freezing rain | -4°C |
| Dec 24 | Clearing to sunny | -5°C |
| Dec 25 | Cloudy | -4°C |
What To Do Now (Weather)
Dress warmly for -24°C wind chill this morning. Snow starts at noon with 2 cm expected, plus freezing drizzle risk this afternoon—drive carefully. Tomorrow brings heavier snow (5 cm) and possible freezing rain, so finish outdoor errands today if possible.
OC Transpo Holiday Schedule in Effect
Image: OC Transpo’s winter and holiday service schedule begins December 22.
OC Transpo’s winter service schedule commenced on Sunday, December 21, with special reduced weekday service running from Monday, December 22, through Friday, January 2, to accommodate lower holiday ridership.
Key service changes include:
- Buses 74, 198, 278, and 406 are now extended to serve Limebank Station
- Line 2 buses renamed to B2 designation
- School routes will not operate during the holiday period
Para Transpo Holiday Service: Para Transpo will operate holiday service on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. Customers must book trips through My Para Transpo or by telephone at 613-560-5000 up to seven days in advance.
Free Transit on New Year’s Eve: OC Transpo will offer free transit service after 6 p.m. on all buses, O-Train Line 1, and Para Transpo, courtesy of Safer Roads Ottawa and MADD Ottawa and Area. O-Train Line 1 will operate until 2 a.m., with B2 buses running until 1 a.m. and Para Transpo continuing until 3 a.m.
Customers should verify schedules before travelling by using the Transit app, calling 613-560-5000, or texting 560560 followed by their four-digit bus stop number.
O-Train Lines 2 and 4 Opening January 6
A major infrastructure milestone approaches as O-Train Lines 2 and 4 are scheduled to commence public service on Monday, January 6, 2026, with a phased implementation approach.
Phased Opening Schedule:
- Phase 1: Monday-Friday service for minimum two weeks
- Phase 2: Saturday service added for minimum two weeks
- Phase 3: Full seven-day service
During Phase 1, bus service will continue running parallel to the new rail lines seven days per week to assist customer transition and provide backup capacity. B2 buses, Routes 97, and 99 will provide parallel service throughout the phased opening.
New Track Added:
- Line 2: Greenboro to Limebank (16 kilometres)
- Line 4: South Keys to Ottawa Airport (4 kilometres)
This expansion significantly increases the geographic reach of Ottawa’s rail transit network, connecting southern communities and the airport to the downtown core.
Schools Closed for Christmas Break
All Ottawa-area schools are closed beginning Monday, December 22, and will remain closed through Friday, January 2, 2026. The Ottawa Public School Board (OPSB), Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB), and other regional education authorities have implemented synchronized holiday schedules.
Students, parents, and educators will observe a 12-day break designed to allow for family time and community celebration during the Christmas season.
Key Dates:
- Last day of school: Friday, December 19, 2025
- First day back: Monday, January 5, 2026
City Services Modified for Holidays
Image: City of Ottawa services will operate on modified schedules during the holiday period.
The City of Ottawa has implemented modified service hours and closures for the holiday period.
Closed December 22 - January 5:
- City of Ottawa Spay and Neuter Clinic (26 Concourse Gate)
Closed December 22 - January 6:
- Gallery 112
- City of Ottawa Archives at James Bartleman Centre
ServiceOttawa Closures: All ServiceOttawa Client Services Centres will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. The Metcalfe, West Carleton, and North Gower centres will remain closed from December 22 through January 2.
Free Holiday Parking:
- Ottawa City Hall: Free parking from 4 p.m. December 24 through 7 a.m. December 26
- ByWard Market Garage: Same free parking period
Ottawa Christmas Market Continues at Lansdowne
Image: The Ottawa Christmas Market features European-style vendors and festive atmosphere.
The Ottawa Christmas Market at Aberdeen Plaza (Lansdowne area) remains open through December 31 with select dates including December 26-28 and December 30-31.
The European-style market features:
- Seasonal food and drink
- Local vendors offering handcrafted gifts
- Live performances
- Festive decorations and lighting
The market has become a beloved Ottawa tradition, offering an authentic holiday atmosphere that draws thousands of visitors each year. Looking for more budget-friendly options? Check out free things to do in Ottawa this December.
Additional Holiday Activities:
- Winter Lights Across Canada on Parliament Hill
- “Trees of Hope” exhibition at Fairmont Château Laurier (through January 6)
- Various holiday concerts at the National Arts Centre
Police Clear Officer in E-Motorcycle Collision
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: The Special Investigations Unit concluded its investigation into an August incident.
Ontario’s police oversight agency concluded its investigation into an August incident involving an Ottawa Police Service officer, determining that no criminal charges are warranted. The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) director Joseph Martino concluded there were “no reasonable grounds to believe that the police officer committed a criminal offence in connection with the collision.”
The incident occurred on August 7 at approximately 8:15 p.m. near Carling Avenue and Moodie Drive. An OPS officer driving a marked cruiser encountered two helmetless riders operating electric motorcycles at speeds up to 70 kilometres per hour on a bicycle path. As the officer attempted to engage the riders, a collision occurred with a 28-year-old cyclist riding lawfully on the path.
The cyclist sustained serious injuries to two or three fingers, requiring surgical intervention. The two e-motorcycle riders were charged with careless driving causing bodily harm and failure to stop.
Police Renew Appeal in 2023 Wedding Shooting Case
As of 8:00 AM ET
Ottawa Police are renewing public calls for information regarding a mass shooting that occurred on September 2, 2023, at the Infinity Convention Centre in which two young men from Toronto were killed.
The investigation, now in its third year without arrests, continues to seek witnesses willing to provide statements. Police indicate that investigators have “followed up on all available leads, reviewed video footage, collected forensic evidence, and reached out to the community,” yet the case remains unsolved.
Authorities emphasized that the shooting was not hate-motivated. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Ottawa Police Homicide Unit at 613-236-1222, extension 5493, or submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
University of Ottawa Advocates for Palestinian Students
University of Ottawa faculty and other Canadian professors are highlighting a humanitarian crisis involving approximately 130 Palestinian students admitted to Canadian universities but unable to obtain study visas due to Canadian immigration processing delays.
These students, stranded in Gaza and Egypt, have been accepted by their respective universities but lack the biometric data required to enter Canada—data that is impossible to obtain while in conflict zones.
One Palestinian student admitted to pursue a master’s degree in transportation and environmental engineering at the University of Calgary has experienced a 17-month delay despite co-authoring conference papers with her graduate supervisor while unable to physically attend classes.
“She’s top tier in the quality and calibre of the work I’ve seen from her, which she’s doing for free while living in a war zone,” noted Dr. Robyn Paul, an assistant professor at the Schulich School of Engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How bad is the flu in Ottawa right now?
The flu situation in Ottawa is critical. Three children have died from influenza in December alone, and CHEO reported a 27-fold increase in positive flu tests compared to last year. Public Health has categorized flu activity as “very high” and urges immediate vaccination before holiday gatherings.
Q: What is Ottawa’s weather forecast for today?
Ottawa expects cloudy skies with a high of minus 5°C. Snow is expected to begin around noon with approximately 2 centimetres of accumulation. Wind chill values will reach minus 24°C in the morning. Risk of freezing drizzle in the afternoon.
Q: Is OC Transpo running holiday schedule?
Yes, OC Transpo’s winter and holiday service schedule is in effect from December 22 through January 2. Reduced weekday service is operating, and school routes are not running. Check schedules before travelling using the Transit app or by texting 560560.
Q: Is transit free on New Year’s Eve in Ottawa?
Yes, OC Transpo is offering free transit after 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve on all buses, O-Train Line 1, and Para Transpo. This service is sponsored by Safer Roads Ottawa and MADD Ottawa and Area.
Q: When do Ottawa schools reopen after Christmas?
Ottawa schools reopen on Monday, January 5, 2026. All Ottawa-area schools are closed from December 22 through January 2 for the Christmas holiday break.
Q: Did the Ottawa Senators win last night?
Yes, the Ottawa Senators defeated the Boston Bruins 6-2 on December 21 for their fourth consecutive win. Fabian Zetterlund had two goals and an assist, while Dylan Cozens and Drake Batherson each recorded three points.
Q: When does the O-Train extension open?
O-Train Lines 2 and 4 are scheduled to open on January 6, 2026. The opening will be phased, starting with Monday-Friday service only. Line 2 adds 16 kilometres from Greenboro to Limebank, and Line 4 adds 4 kilometres from South Keys to the airport.
Q: Is the Ottawa Christmas Market still open?
Yes, the Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne is open through December 31. Operating dates include December 26-28 and December 30-31. The market features European-style vendors, seasonal food, and live performances.
Q: Is parking free in Ottawa for Christmas?
Yes, Ottawa City Hall and ByWard Market Garage offer free parking from 4 p.m. on December 24 through 7 a.m. on December 26.
Q: What city services are closed for Christmas?
ServiceOttawa Client Services Centres are closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. The Spay and Neuter Clinic, Gallery 112, and City Archives are closed from December 22 through early January.
Q: What happened in the Ottawa Charge game?
The Ottawa Charge defeated the Minnesota Frost 3-2 in overtime on December 21. Rookie Sarah Wozniewicz scored her first professional goal at 3:55 of overtime to secure the victory and snap a four-game losing streak.
Q: How are the Ottawa 67’s doing this season?
The Ottawa 67’s are having an exceptional season and currently hold the top position in their league standings. They most recently defeated Brantford 6-0 on December 19. Next home games are December 28 vs Kingston and December 30 vs Guelph.
Final Summary
Ottawa enters the Christmas holiday period facing a serious health crisis as the flu epidemic continues to claim lives and strain healthcare resources. With three children dead and hospitalizations surging, health officials urge residents to get vaccinated before holiday gatherings begin.
On a brighter note, sports fans have plenty to celebrate with the Senators’ four-game winning streak and the Charge’s overtime victory. The holiday period brings modified city services, reduced transit schedules, and the exciting prospect of the O-Train extension opening January 6.
Stay safe, check your transit schedules before travelling, and consider getting your flu shot before gathering with family this week.
Sources & References
- CBC Ottawa - Flu epidemic coverage
- Ottawa Citizen - City services, police news
- CityNews Ottawa - Transit updates, local news
- NHL.com - Senators game coverage
- Environment Canada - Weather forecast
- City of Ottawa - Official service schedules
- OC Transpo - Transit updates
This daily news roundup is compiled from multiple Ottawa news sources. For breaking updates, follow local news outlets and ViaOttawa.
