Ottawa Daily News: December 27, 2025
Last Updated: December 27, 2025 at 8:00 AM ET
Ottawa faces a dual health and weather crisis as authorities grapple with a devastating flu outbreak that has claimed three young lives while Environment Canada warns of an incoming winter storm that could significantly impact travel by Monday.
The National Capital Region enters the final days of 2025 confronting serious challenges. A severe influenza outbreak has overwhelmed pediatric hospitals, with CHEO reporting a staggering 2,700% increase in flu cases compared to last year. Health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated immediately before holiday gatherings accelerate transmission. Meanwhile, the Ottawa Christmas market continues drawing crowds at Lansdowne Park, providing festive relief during these difficult times.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Three children have died from flu complications in Ottawa this month, with hospitals overwhelmed by cases. Environment Canada warns of a potentially significant winter storm Sunday evening through Monday. The Ottawa Christmas Market remains open through December 31, and the Senators play the Leafs tonight in Toronto.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Friday-Saturday, December 26-27, 2025 |
| 🌡️ Weather | High -9°C, Low -19°C; Storm possible Sunday-Monday |
| 🚗 Traffic | Holiday schedule in effect; OC Transpo reduced service |
| 🎉 Top Event | Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne Park |
| 🏒 Sports | Senators @ Maple Leafs tonight; Charge vs Fleet at noon |
Flu Crisis Reaches Alarming Levels in Ottawa
Image: Ottawa hospitals are experiencing unprecedented flu-related patient volumes this December.
The influenza outbreak gripping Ottawa has reached alarming proportions that health authorities are calling unprecedented. Three children between the ages of five and nine have died from flu complications in the first half of December alone, according to a joint announcement from Ottawa Public Health and the Eastern Ontario Health Unit.
Dr. Trevor Arnason, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health, characterized the cluster of pediatric deaths as unusual. “While childhood flu fatalities do occur in Canada, witnessing multiple deaths within such a compressed timeframe is uncommon,” he stated during a December 15 press conference.
The surge in flu cases is being driven primarily by the H3N2 strain of influenza A, which accounts for 99.4 percent of positive flu cases nationally. CHEO, Ottawa’s pediatric hospital, has reported an extraordinary spike in presentations. From December 1 to 10, the hospital recorded 300 positive flu test results—compared to only 11 cases during the same period in 2024, representing a staggering 2,700% increase year-over-year.
Ottawa Public Health has classified flu activity in the capital as “very high” and continuing to escalate. The region is currently experiencing over 200 active flu cases compared to approximately 50 at the same point last year.
CHEO Issues Urgent Call for Physician Support
CHEO issued an urgent letter on December 12, calling on physicians and pediatricians across the region to extend their hours and respond to urgent appointment requests from families with symptomatic children. The hospital is working to manage capacity while maintaining quality care for the most critical cases.
Health authorities emphasize that flu vaccination, even at this late stage of the season, remains critical. Dr. Arnason reinforced that vaccination should occur immediately: “We are still ahead of the holiday season, before people gather and visit one another, making this the most crucial time to get vaccinated.”
Paul Emmelot, Medical Officer of Health for the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, countered common misconceptions about flu severity: “People often believe that only the elderly are affected, but that’s a misconception. We know it impacts both ends of the age spectrum.”
Residents experiencing flu symptoms are encouraged to utilize walk-in clinics, pharmacies, and telehealth services when possible to prevent emergency room overcrowding.
What To Do Now (Health)
This is the most critical time to vaccinate—before New Year’s gatherings spread the virus further. CHEO is seeing 27x more cases than last year; three children have died. Walk-in vaccines are still available at pharmacies. Skip the ER unless it’s truly an emergency.
Winter Storm Warning: Travel May Be Impacted Sunday Through Monday
Image: Ottawa residents should prepare for potentially significant winter weather conditions early next week.
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for the Ottawa region, warning that a strong winter storm is possible between Sunday evening, December 28, and Monday evening, December 29. The system could bring freezing rain and significant snow accumulation, potentially impacting travel throughout the National Capital Region.
Current Conditions and Weekend Forecast
Friday, December 26 saw snow arriving late in the afternoon with temperatures dropping to -14°C and wind chill values reaching -23°C, creating hazardous travel conditions. Approximately 2 to 4 centimeters of snow accumulated overnight.
Saturday, December 27 brought improved conditions with a mix of sun and cloud after morning flurries cleared. Today’s high reached -9°C with wind chill values near -14°C in the afternoon. Clear skies tonight will see temperatures plummet to -19°C.
Extended Forecast Through New Year’s
| Day | Conditions | High | Low |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday, Dec 28 | Sunny, evening clouds, 60% chance of flurries | -9°C | -13°C |
| Monday, Dec 29 | Periods of freezing rain expected | -5°C | -13°C |
| Tuesday, Dec 30 | Mix of sun and cloud, 40% chance of flurries | -9°C | -12°C |
| Wednesday, Dec 31 | Cloudy, 40% chance of flurries | -8°C | -11°C |
| Thursday, Jan 1 | Cloudy | -10°C | -14°C |
Residents are advised to monitor Environment Canada alerts closely and adjust travel plans accordingly for Sunday and Monday.
Ottawa Senators Face Maple Leafs in Toronto Tonight
Image: The Ottawa Senators travel to Toronto for a Saturday evening matchup against the Maple Leafs.
Saturday, December 27 marks a busy sports day across Ottawa’s professional landscape, with four major events occurring.
NHL: Senators at Maple Leafs
The Ottawa Senators travel to Toronto this evening to face their provincial rivals at Scotiabank Arena. The Senators enter the contest with an 18-13-5 record, placing them competitively in the Atlantic Division standings. The Maple Leafs carry a 16-15-5 record.
Centre Tim Stutzle continues to lead the Senators offensively with 39 points on the season, including 18 goals and 21 assists. Ottawa will be looking for a statement road victory against their longtime rivals.
PWHL: Ottawa Charge Host Boston Fleet
The Ottawa Charge of the Professional Women’s Hockey League host the Boston Fleet at TD Place at noon today. This matchup represents the Charge’s final home game of 2025 and an opportunity to conclude the calendar year with a victory.
NLL: Ottawa Black Bears vs Philadelphia Wings
The Ottawa Black Bears face the Philadelphia Wings at the Canadian Tire Centre at 7:00 PM tonight. The Black Bears are mounting a late-season push as they approach the conclusion of their competitive season.
OHL: Ottawa 67’s vs Kingston Frontenacs (Sunday)
The Ottawa 67’s will play the Kingston Frontenacs at TD Place on Sunday, December 28 at 3:00 PM. The junior hockey matchup provides families with a holiday entertainment option. Additional 67’s games include Tuesday, December 30 versus the Guelph Storm at 3:00 PM.
Ottawa Christmas Market Continues Through New Year’s Eve
Image: The Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne Park features a European-style village setting with wooden chalets and festive activities.
The Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne Park remains the city’s premier holiday destination, operating through December 31, 2025. The market has established itself as Ottawa’s biggest and most well-known Christmas celebration, featuring a European-style village setting with wooden chalets, spectacular Christmas tree illuminations, and extensive photographic opportunities.
Market Schedule and Details
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| 📍 Location | Lansdowne Park, 1000 Exhibition Way (Aberdeen Square) |
| 📅 Open Dates | December 27-28, December 30-31 (Closed December 29) |
| 🎟️ Admission | Free entry |
| ⏰ Vendors | 50+ artisans and businesses |
The market features a skating rink, live music and DJs, craft cocktails and hot beverages, festive food options, Santa workshops for children, and various family activities. Vendors offer handcrafted goods, seasonal decorations, gourmet food products, and unique gift items.
Additional Holiday Events This Weekend
Ukrainian Film Fundraiser at Mayfair Theatre: The Mayfair Theatre in Old Ottawa South is hosting a special afternoon screening of the Ukrainian film “The Train to Christmas” (Potiah na Rizdvo) today. All proceeds support Ukrainian children who have lost parents due to the ongoing conflict. The comedy tells the story of strangers thrown together on a train on Christmas Eve.
Museum Holiday Hours: Ottawa’s major museums are maintaining regular or extended hours for holiday visitors. The Canadian Museum of History features “Illuminating Curiosity,” a travelling exhibition celebrating holiday traditions across Canadian cultures, running through January 18, 2026. The “Cool History: Hockey” exhibition continues through April 12, 2026.
Traffic and Transit Updates: Holiday Schedule in Effect
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: OC Transpo continues operating on a holiday schedule through January 2, 2026.
OC Transpo continues its holiday service schedule through January 2, 2026, with modified frequency on bus routes and the O-Train system. The transit authority is offering special pricing incentives to encourage public transportation use during the busy holiday period.
Special Holiday Promotions
2-for-1 DayPass: Two customers can ride all day for the price of one DayPass on December 25, 26, January 1, and every Saturday and Sunday through the holiday period.
Free Transit on New Year’s Eve: Complimentary service will be provided on Wednesday, December 31 after 6:00 PM, courtesy of Safer Roads Ottawa and MADD Ottawa and Area.
Extended O-Train Service NYE: O-Train Line 1 will operate until 2:00 AM on New Year’s Eve, after which night bus service will operate through downtown.
Current Service Status
All OC Transpo bus services are operating on Saturday schedule today. O-Train Lines 1, 2, and 4 are operating with standard weekend frequency. Para Transpo services are operating normally. The Rideau Centre Customer Service Centre is open 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Severe Winter Storm Protocol: In the event of major winter storms, OC Transpo will implement its severe storm schedule, reducing bus service and replacing articulated buses with standard and double-decker buses.
What To Do Now (Transit)
OC Transpo runs on holiday schedule with reduced frequency—use the 2-for-1 DayPass today. A winter storm is possible Sunday-Monday, so complete any travel before Sunday evening. Free transit on New Year’s Eve starts at 6 PM.
2026 Budget Approved: New Traffic Enforcement Units Begin Operations
As of 8:00 AM ET
Image: Ottawa City Council approved the 2026 municipal budget earlier this month with a 3.75% tax increase.
Ottawa City Council finalized its 2026 municipal budget on December 10 with a vote of 21 to 4, approving a tax increase of 3.75 percent. The budget maintains core service commitments while introducing specific operational enhancements focused on traffic enforcement.
New District Traffic Units Operational
A critical initiative is the introduction of new district traffic units that commenced operations on December 15. Each district unit is staffed with a sergeant and four constables, representing the police service’s direct response to community and council feedback regarding traffic enforcement priorities.
The Ottawa Police Service indicated that these units will focus specifically on traffic compliance and public safety across all residential, suburban, and rural areas of the city.
Councillor Steve Desroches defended police funding allocations as essential to public safety, noting that the RIDE enforcement program would reach peak activity from January 1, 2026 onward. Councillor Jeff Leiper explained that feedback from residents across all demographics demonstrated strong support for maintaining adequate police funding.
Ottawa Restaurant Scene: New Openings Continue
Image: Ottawa’s food scene continues to evolve with several new restaurant openings in December.
Ottawa’s food scene has continued its 2025 expansion trajectory with several restaurant openings concentrated in December, signifying ongoing investment in the city’s dining landscape.
Recent December Openings
Altay Flame Uyghur Cuisine opened mid-December on Beechwood Avenue in New Edinburgh, replacing the long-standing SushiMe restaurant. Altay specializes in Uyghur cuisine, offering clay pot soups, grilled meats, and traditional Central Asian preparations—representing a previously unrepresented cuisine in Ottawa’s restaurant market.
Karahi Boys (Halal Pakistani) celebrated its grand opening in mid-December on Preston Street in Little Italy. The franchise operates eight other Ontario locations and two in Texas, bringing halal-certified Pakistani cuisine to the community.
Eggstatic opened December 20 in Barrhaven, expanding the popular breakfast and brunch chain’s presence into Ottawa’s suburban markets.
Bathinda Bites (South Asian Vegetarian) opened December 11 on Robertson Road in Kanata. Operating 24 hours daily, the restaurant specializes in vegetarian South Asian cuisine.
Wok & Chop (Halal Hakka) opened December 18 in Kanata Centrum, specializing in halal-certified Hakka cuisine—a South Asian interpretation of Chinese food.
Throughout 2025, Ottawa has experienced significant restaurant turnover, with notable closures creating opportunities for new culinary concepts. Chef Briana Kim, 2023 Canadian Culinary Championship winner, opened Antheia on Somerset Street West in early December, representing the year’s most anticipated fine-dining debut. For the complete list of December openings with addresses and menus, see our New Restaurants in Ottawa December 2025 guide.
Crime and Safety: Online Transaction Robberies Surge
Image: Ottawa Police Service has established designated Safe Trade locations for online marketplace transactions.
Ottawa Police reported a significant escalation in personal robbery incidents during 2025, with 153 cases recorded compared to 126 in 2022—a 21 percent increase. Of particular concern is the connection between online transactions and robbery incidents, with 30 robberies this year directly linked to buying and selling items through online marketplaces.
Safe Transaction Best Practices
Ottawa Police Service has issued advisory recommendations for individuals engaging in online transactions:
- Never invite strangers to your residence for a transaction
- Always bring a friend to meet-ups
- Select public areas that are well-lit and under video surveillance
- Arrange meetings during daylight hours
- Avoid empty parking lots or isolated locations
- Heed sudden changes to meeting location as a warning sign
Designated Safe Trade Locations
Ottawa Police has established Safe Trade locations at:
- Huntmar Police Station
- Greenbank Police Station
- St. Laurent Police Station
- 474 Elgin Street (parking lot behind headquarters)
Personal robbery incidents typically escalate during the holiday season. The public is urged to prioritize personal safety when conducting online transactions. For detailed addresses, hours, and comprehensive safety tips, see our complete Ottawa Safe Trade Locations Guide.
Missing Person Alert: Marc Latourelle
Gatineau Police have requested public assistance in locating Marc Latourelle, a 43-year-old man missing since December 22, 2025.
| Description | Details |
|---|---|
| Last Seen | Evening of December 22, Malartic Street, Gatineau |
| Age | 43 years old |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 metres) |
| Weight | Approximately 180 pounds (81 kg) |
| Hair | Short grey/black |
| Eyes | Blue |
| Last Clothing | Dark construction jacket with reflective stripes, black pants, navy blue sweatshirt, black work boots |
Police believe Latourelle was travelling on foot and remains in or around the Gatineau area. Anyone with information should contact Gatineau Police Service at 819-246-0222.
FAQ
Q: How serious is the flu outbreak in Ottawa right now?
The flu outbreak is extremely serious, with Ottawa Public Health classifying activity as “very high.” Three children aged 5-9 have died from flu complications in December. CHEO reported 300 positive flu tests from December 1-10, compared to only 11 cases in the same period last year—a 2,700% increase. Health authorities urge immediate vaccination.
Q: Is it too late to get a flu shot?
No, it’s not too late. Health officials emphasize that vaccination remains effective even at this late stage. Dr. Trevor Arnason specifically noted that now is the most crucial time to get vaccinated, before holiday gatherings accelerate transmission. Flu shots are available at pharmacies and clinics throughout Ottawa.
Q: When is the winter storm expected to hit Ottawa?
Environment Canada warns that a strong winter storm is possible between Sunday evening (December 28) and Monday evening (December 29). The system may bring freezing rain and significant impacts to travel. Residents should monitor Environment Canada alerts and prepare for potential disruptions.
Q: What are today’s temperatures in Ottawa?
Saturday, December 27 has a high of -9°C with wind chill values near -14°C in the afternoon. Tonight will see temperatures drop to -19°C under clear skies. Conditions are improved from yesterday’s snow, but frostbite remains a risk during extended outdoor exposure.
Q: Is the Ottawa Christmas Market open today?
Yes, the Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne Park is open December 27-28, then December 30-31 (closed December 29). Admission is free. The market features 50+ vendors, a skating rink, live music, food and beverages, and family activities including Santa workshops.
Q: Who are the Ottawa Senators playing tonight?
The Ottawa Senators face the Toronto Maple Leafs tonight at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. The Senators hold an 18-13-5 record while the Leafs sit at 16-15-5. Tim Stutzle leads Ottawa with 39 points (18 goals, 21 assists) on the season.
Q: Is OC Transpo running on a normal schedule?
No, OC Transpo is operating on a holiday schedule through January 2, 2026. Service frequency is reduced on bus routes and the O-Train system. A 2-for-1 DayPass promotion is available on weekends. Free transit will be offered New Year’s Eve after 6:00 PM.
Q: What’s the tax increase for Ottawa in 2026?
Ottawa City Council approved a 3.75% tax increase as part of the 2026 municipal budget, which passed with a vote of 21-4 on December 10. The budget includes new district traffic units that began operations on December 15.
Q: What new restaurants have opened in Ottawa recently?
Several restaurants opened in December including Altay Flame Uyghur Cuisine (Beechwood Avenue), Karahi Boys Pakistani (Preston Street), Eggstatic (Barrhaven), Bathinda Bites vegetarian (Kanata), and Wok & Chop Halal Hakka (Kanata Centrum). Chef Briana Kim’s Antheia on Somerset Street represents the year’s most anticipated fine-dining opening.
Q: Where are the safe locations to conduct online marketplace transactions?
Ottawa Police has designated Safe Trade locations at Huntmar Police Station, Greenbank Police Station, St. Laurent Police Station, and 474 Elgin Street (parking lot behind headquarters). Police recommend meeting in public, well-lit areas during daylight hours.
Q: What should I do if I have information about the missing person Marc Latourelle?
Contact Gatineau Police Service immediately at 819-246-0222. Marc Latourelle, 43, has been missing since December 22, 2025. He was last seen leaving his residence on Malartic Street in Gatineau, wearing a dark construction jacket with reflective stripes.
Q: Are Ottawa museums open during the holidays?
Most major museums are open with regular or extended hours. The Canadian Museum of History features exhibitions including “Illuminating Curiosity” and “Cool History: Hockey.” The National Gallery of Canada, Canadian War Museum, and Science and Technology museums are operating. Note that some venues like the Canada Agriculture Museum and Ottawa Art Gallery are closed.
Q: What’s the PWHL game happening in Ottawa today?
The Ottawa Charge host the Boston Fleet at TD Place at noon on December 27. This is the Charge’s final home game of 2025 in the Professional Women’s Hockey League.
Q: When do the Ottawa 67’s play next?
The Ottawa 67’s play the Kingston Frontenacs at TD Place on Sunday, December 28 at 3:00 PM. They also face the Guelph Storm on Tuesday, December 30 at 3:00 PM.
Final Summary
Ottawa closes out 2025 facing significant health and weather challenges that require residents’ attention and preparation. The severe flu outbreak affecting the National Capital Region has claimed three young lives and overwhelmed healthcare facilities, making immediate vaccination crucial before further holiday gatherings. Meanwhile, Environment Canada’s warning of a potential winter storm Sunday through Monday demands travel planning adjustments.
Despite these challenges, the holiday spirit continues at the Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne Park, open through New Year’s Eve with free admission and festive activities. Sports fans have multiple options this weekend, from the Senators road game tonight to the Charge women’s hockey matchup at noon. As we approach 2026, stay informed, stay safe, and remember that free transit service will be available New Year’s Eve after 6:00 PM.
Sources & References
- Environment Canada Weather Forecasts
- Ottawa Public Health
- [CHEO - Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario](https://www.[CHEO](https://www.cheo.on.ca).on.ca)
- OC Transpo
- Ottawa Police Service
- Ottawa Senators
- Ottawa Christmas Market
- CBC Ottawa
- Ottawa Citizen
- Gatineau Police Service
This daily news roundup is compiled from multiple Ottawa news sources. For breaking updates, follow local news outlets and ViaOttawa. Check out more Ottawa local news and upcoming Ottawa events on our site.
Related Articles:
- Ottawa Christmas Markets 2025 Guide - Complete guide to holiday markets
- Ottawa Winter Parking Ban 2025 - Everything you need to know
- Ottawa New Year’s Eve 2025 Events - Where to celebrate NYE
- Emergency Preparedness in Ottawa - Stay safe during winter storms
- Ottawa January Events 2025 - What’s coming up next month
