Ottawa Daily News: January 1, 2026
Last Updated: January 1, 2026 at 8:00 AM ET
Ottawa enters 2026 under a dual emergency: an exceptionally severe flu season that has already claimed three young lives, and dangerously cold temperatures that could reach -30°C with wind chill. Hospitals are operating over capacity, federal job cut notifications begin this month, and transit fares just increased—yet community resources remain available for residents facing hardship.
The capital wakes up to a new year with urgent health warnings from Ottawa Public Health, extreme cold alerts from Environment Canada, and significant changes affecting government workers and transit users alike. Here’s everything you need to know to start 2026 safely and informed.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Three children died from influenza A in December as Ottawa’s flu crisis doubles previous peaks. Temperatures plunge to -25°C with -30°C wind chills. Federal job cut notifications begin in January, affecting 40,000 positions. OC Transpo fares increased 2.5% today. Free transit ended at midnight after New Year’s Eve service.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Wednesday, January 1, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | High -15°C, Low -25°C, Wind chill -30°C |
| 🚗 Traffic | Holiday schedule - reduced activity |
| 🎉 Top Event | New Year’s Day celebrations citywide |
| 🏥 Health Alert | Severe flu season - get vaccinated now |
| 🏒 Sports | World Juniors continue in Ottawa |
Severe Flu Season Claims Three Children’s Lives
As of 8:00 AM ET, January 1
Image: Ottawa hospitals urge residents to get flu shots immediately as the city faces its worst flu season in years.
Three children between ages 5 and 9 died from influenza A complications in the first two weeks of December—an extraordinary and heartbreaking situation that underscores the severity of this year’s flu season.
Ottawa is not experiencing a typical winter. According to Ottawa Public Health, wastewater flu signals at CHEO are approximately double previous peak seasons. Ontario saw a 127 percent spike in ICU flu admissions in a single week, with daily confirmed flu patient counts up 150 percent. This is an active public health emergency.
Hospitals across the city are operating over capacity. CHEO has asked family physicians to extend working hours and prioritize respiratory-symptom appointments for children. Hospital overflow spaces are in active use, and staff are stretched thin managing the surge.
The vast majority of laboratory-confirmed cases are Influenza A. Symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, and muscle aches. Complications can include pneumonia, hospitalization, and death—especially in young children, elderly individuals, and immunocompromised people. COVID-19 levels remain low-to-moderate, but RSV cases are moderate-to-very-high this season.
You can receive your flu vaccine at pharmacies, walk-in clinics, and Ottawa Public Health clinics. COVID and flu vaccines can be administered simultaneously. For vaccination locations, contact Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744 (Monday-Friday, 9 AM–4 PM).
What To Do Now (Health)
Get your flu vaccine immediately—it takes about two weeks to reach full effectiveness, and we’re in the peak danger zone now. If your child develops respiratory symptoms, contact your family doctor immediately or visit CHEO’s urgent care. For severe symptoms like high fever lasting more than three days, difficulty breathing, or extreme lethargy, go directly to the emergency room.
Dangerous Winter Weather Grips Ottawa
As of 7:30 AM ET
Image: Extreme cold and wind chill warnings are in effect across the National Capital Region.
Today’s temperature will reach a high of only -15°C, with overnight lows plunging to -25°C. Wind chill values will make it feel like -28°C to -30°C—conditions where exposed skin can develop frostbite within minutes.
A major winter storm swept through Eastern Canada over the holiday week, bringing freezing rain, blizzard conditions, and significant ice accumulation. While the storm has passed, its aftermath lingers on roads and walkways. Winds could still reach 70 km/h in exposed areas according to Environment Canada.
The extended forecast shows continued bitter cold through the first week of January:
| Day | High | Low | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1 | -15°C | -25°C | Sunny, wind chill -30°C |
| Jan 2-3 | -12°C to -16°C | -20°C to -22°C | Sunny to cloudy |
| Jan 4-6 | -6°C to -11°C | -15°C | Increasing clouds, possible flurries |
For the full month of January, expect temperatures averaging -7°C to -14°C with approximately 14 days of rain or snow. Keep emergency supplies ready: flashlight, batteries, first-aid kit, non-perishable food, and bottled water. If you’re looking for ways to beat the cold, check out our guide to indoor activities in Ottawa or hit the toboggan hills when conditions improve.
What To Do Now (Weather)
Limit outdoor exposure today—frostbite can occur within 10-15 minutes at -30°C wind chill. Dress in layers with no exposed skin if you must go outside. Check on elderly neighbours and ensure pets are not left outdoors. Insulate pipes and keep a slow drip of water running overnight to prevent freezing in older homes.
Federal Job Cuts: 40,000 Positions Affected
As of January 1
Image: Federal employees across Ottawa face uncertainty as government announces major workforce reductions.
Federal employees across Ottawa will begin receiving notifications this month about whether their positions may be affected by sweeping government cuts.
The federal government is eliminating approximately 40,000 public service positions, reducing the workforce from 368,000 to 330,000 by 2028. This represents the largest reduction in the federal public service in decades and will particularly impact Ottawa, where government employment forms the backbone of the local economy.
An early retirement program opens on January 15, 2026, with a 120-day application window. Approximately 68,000 public servants have already received early retirement notification letters. Those whose applications are accepted must retire within 300 days of approval.
Departments expected to notify affected staff in January include Employment and Social Development Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and Shared Services Canada. Changes will occur primarily through natural attrition, voluntary retirements, and the early retirement program—though involuntary adjustments remain possible.
The return-to-office situation remains fluid. Currently, federal public servants must work in the office 3 days per week (executives: 4 days). Prime Minister Mark Carney indicated new requirements will become clearer “over the coming weeks,” with leaked Treasury Board documents suggesting the government is considering 4 days per week by July 2026 and 5 days per week by January 2027. The City of Ottawa has already implemented full 5-day-per-week office attendance starting today for all municipal employees.
What To Do Now (Federal Workers)
Federal employees should expect official communications this month and review any letters received carefully. Consult with your union representatives (PSAC, CAPE) before making decisions about retirement or transition options. Document all communications in writing and verify information through Treasury Board official channels rather than relying on rumours.
📚 Deep Dive: For comprehensive information on your rights, timeline, and financial options, read our complete guide to Ottawa federal job cuts and workforce adjustment.
Transit Fares Increase 2.5% Today
As of January 1
Image: OC Transpo fares increased by 2.5 percent effective January 1, 2026.
Your commute just got slightly more expensive. OC Transpo fares increased by 2.5 percent today, adding approximately $4 million in annual revenue for the transit system.
The adult monthly pass now costs $138.50, up from $135. Single adult cash fares and Presto taps have also increased proportionally. The increase funds ongoing operations as ridership continues recovering from pandemic-era lows.
For New Year’s Day, all transit operates on Sunday schedules:
- Buses operate on Sunday schedule with extra resources on high-demand routes
- O-Train Line 1: Shortened schedule
- O-Train Lines 2 and 4: Sunday schedule
- Para Transpo: Regular service available
The free New Year’s Eve transit, which was funded by Infrastructure and Communities Canada and the City of Ottawa, ended at midnight. Regular fares now apply.
Looking ahead, the O-Train Line 1 extension to Orléans (from Blair Station to Trim Station) is targeting opening in early 2026. Testing and trial operations are expected to begin “relatively early in the new year,” though OC Transpo emphasizes the line will not open until fully tested and safe.
What To Do Now (Transit)
Download the OC Transpo app for real-time service updates and check schedules before heading out—today runs on Sunday service. If you purchased a monthly pass before January 1, you’re locked in at the old rate until it expires. During winter weather, allow extra travel time as buses may run behind schedule.
Hydro Ottawa Rates Increase $6/Month
As of January 1
Image: Hydro Ottawa distribution rates increase by about $6 per month for typical residential customers.
Your electricity bill is going up. Hydro Ottawa residential customers will see distribution rates increase by $6.08 per month based on typical usage of 750 kWh. Small businesses (general service customers) face increases of $14.57 per month.
This is the first of five consecutive years of planned rate increases, with smaller jumps ($2.72–$3.79) expected annually from 2027–2030. The increases fund Hydro Ottawa’s $1.195 billion five-year infrastructure investment to support Ottawa’s growing population and the broader energy transition.
High-consumption households or businesses will see proportionally larger increases. If you’re struggling with utility costs, Hydro Ottawa offers payment arrangements and assistance programs—call 613-738-0188 for information.
To report outages or check status during the cold snap:
- Online: hydroottawa.com (outage map updates every 15 minutes)
- Phone: 613-738-0188 (24/7 outage line)
- Text: Send “OUT” to PWROUT (797688)
- Mobile app: Hydro Ottawa app
Housing: Slight Relief for Some Renters
As of January 1
Image: Some Ottawa renters in older buildings will see automatic rent reductions starting today.
Mixed signals on the housing front as Ottawa enters 2026. Average rent in the city sits at $2,188 per month as of November 2025. One-bedroom apartments average $1,951/month, actually down 3.2 percent year-over-year—though this reflects market normalization after several years of rapid increases rather than true affordability improvements.
Here’s a bit of unexpected good news: renters in older multi-residential buildings will see automatic rent reductions of 0.89 percent starting today due to municipal property tax reductions from October 2025. On a $2,000/month rent, that’s approximately $16/month savings ($192/year).
If you rent in an older apartment building, confirm whether your landlord has issued the required rent reduction notice. If not, you can contact the Landlord and Tenant Board for guidance on your rights.
Scam Alert: Active Grandparent Scam Targeting Ottawa
As of January 1
Image: Ottawa Police warn of active grandparent scam targeting elderly residents.
Ottawa Police are warning residents about an active grandparent scam currently targeting Ottawa seniors.
In this scam, callers pose as lawyers claiming your grandson or granddaughter was involved in a vehicle collision and needs bail money—typically $5,000 to $6,000. The scammer then appears at the victim’s home as a “court-appointed trustee” to collect cash in person.
In a recent case, Ottawa Police intervened and arrested a suspect, but investigators believe additional victims were targeted. These scams exploit emotional urgency and demand secrecy specifically to prevent victims from calling family members to verify the story.
If you receive such a call:
- Hang up immediately
- Call your family member directly to verify the situation
- Never provide money to anyone at your door claiming to be a court official
- Report to Ottawa Police: 613-236-1222 ext. 7300 or ottawapolice.ca/report
Police also warn of increasing counterfeit currency circulating through Kijiji and Marketplace transactions. Counterfeit bills often carry identical serial numbers. When buying or selling items for cash, inspect bills carefully and report suspicious currency to police.
Community Resources: Help Available
As of January 1
Image: Ottawa Food Bank and community organizations continue serving residents facing hardship.
If you’re struggling, know that help is available. Ottawa’s community support infrastructure remains active through the holiday period and beyond.
Food Insecurity Crisis: Ottawa Food Bank visits have surged 101 percent since 2019, with 588,866 visits recorded in 2025. The network served more than two million meals last year. Services are free, confidential, and no income verification is required. For a complete directory of food cupboards, meal programs, and emergency resources across Ottawa, see our complete Ottawa food bank and community resources guide.
- Find help: ottawafoodbank.ca/get-help/ (lookup tool for nearest agency)
- Network: Over 70 member agencies providing food cupboards, meal programs, and after-school snacks
- Who uses it: 40% single adults, 37% children, plus seniors, newcomers, and families just above income-assistance thresholds
Shelter Access: Ottawa’s shelter system is operating over capacity due to extreme cold and high demand. Resources include:
- St. Joseph Transitional Housing: 40 beds for asylum seekers
- 250 Lanark Ave. Temporary Emergency Shelter: 60 beds (activated during overflow)
- Centre 507: 24/7 drop-in with low-barrier warming and respite services
If you or someone you know needs shelter, call 311 for city shelter intake. Do not sleep outdoors in January temperatures—frostbite can occur within minutes at -25°C wind chills. In true emergencies, go to an emergency room or call 911. For warming up with a hot meal, see our guides to the best hot pot in Ottawa or coffee shops.
Schools Resume January 5
As of January 1
Image: Ottawa students return to school on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Both Ottawa public and Catholic school boards resume classes on Monday, January 5, 2026. Winter break runs through January 2.
Mark these important upcoming dates:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 5 | Classes resume (all grades) |
| January 23 | Elementary PA Day |
| January 23–29 | Secondary Semester 1 exams |
| January 30 | PA Day (all grades) |
| February 13 | Elementary PA Day |
| February 16 | Family Day (holiday) |
| March 16–20 | March Break |
Given the severe flu season, ensure children are current on flu vaccinations before returning to school—classrooms are high-transmission environments. If your child develops respiratory symptoms, keep them home and contact your family doctor.
Flight Delays and Disruptions Continue
As of January 1
Image: Winter weather caused widespread flight disruptions across Canada, with backlogs still clearing.
Winter weather caused approximately 1,200 flight cancellations and 2,300 delays across Canada between December 26-30, with Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport among those affected.
As of January 1, airlines continue experiencing disruptions as the backlog clears. Air Canada, WestJet, Jazz, and Porter Airlines have issued weather waivers allowing free rebooking within seven days of your original travel date.
If traveling from Ottawa International Airport today, monitor your airline’s app continuously and check flight status before heading to the airport. Airlines must provide accommodation, meals, and communication for delays exceeding regulatory thresholds under Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations. If your flight was cancelled due to weather, you may request a refund rather than accepting vouchers. For more tips on navigating the airport, see our Ottawa Airport parking guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How bad is the flu season in Ottawa right now?
This is one of the worst flu seasons in recent memory. Three children ages 5-9 died from influenza A complications in December. Hospital wastewater monitoring shows flu levels approximately double previous peaks. Ontario ICU flu admissions spiked 127 percent in one week. Get vaccinated immediately if you haven’t already—it’s not too late, though protection takes about two weeks to develop fully.
Q: Where can I get a flu vaccine in Ottawa?
Flu vaccines are available free through Ontario Health at most pharmacies, walk-in clinics, and Ottawa Public Health vaccination clinics. You can receive flu and COVID vaccines simultaneously. Call Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744 (Monday-Friday, 9 AM–4 PM) for clinic locations or book directly at participating pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart or Rexall.
Q: What is the weather forecast for Ottawa in early January?
Expect dangerously cold temperatures through the first week of January. Today reaches only -15°C with lows of -25°C and wind chills to -30°C. Conditions improve slightly by January 4-6 with highs around -6°C to -11°C. Environment Canada advises limiting outdoor exposure and watching for frostbite symptoms. Keep emergency supplies ready for potential power outages.
Q: How much did OC Transpo fares increase?
OC Transpo fares increased by 2.5 percent effective January 1, 2026. The adult monthly pass now costs $138.50, up from $135. This increase adds approximately $4 million in annual revenue for the transit system. Today, all transit operates on Sunday schedules for the New Year’s Day holiday.
Q: When does the O-Train extension to Orléans open?
The O-Train Line 1 extension from Blair Station to Trim Station is targeting opening in early 2026 (Q1). Testing and trial operations are expected to begin “relatively early in the new year.” However, OC Transpo emphasizes the line will not open until fully tested and safe. The project has experienced previous delays, so the exact date remains uncertain.
Q: Are federal government job cuts starting?
Yes. Federal employees will begin receiving notifications in January 2026 about whether their positions may be affected. The government is cutting approximately 40,000 positions by 2028 (from 368,000 to 330,000). An early retirement program opens January 15 with a 120-day application window. Departments notifying staff in January include ESDC, Natural Resources, and Shared Services Canada.
Q: What are the new Hydro Ottawa rates?
Hydro Ottawa distribution rates increased by $6.08 per month for typical residential customers (based on 750 kWh usage) effective January 1, 2026. Small businesses face increases of $14.57 monthly. This is the first of five consecutive years of planned increases. Contact 613-738-0188 if you need payment arrangements.
Q: When do Ottawa schools reopen after winter break?
Both Ottawa public and Catholic school boards resume classes on Monday, January 5, 2026. Winter break officially runs through January 2. Upcoming key dates include PA Days on January 23 and 30, secondary exams January 23-29, Family Day on February 16, and March Break from March 16-20.
Q: How do I report a Hydro Ottawa power outage?
Report outages through multiple channels: call 613-738-0188 (24/7 outage line), text “OUT” to PWROUT (797688), use the Hydro Ottawa mobile app, or check hydroottawa.com for the outage map that updates every 15 minutes. If your outage isn’t on the map, report it immediately so crews can be dispatched.
Q: Is there a grandparent scam happening in Ottawa?
Yes, Ottawa Police are warning about an active grandparent scam. Callers pose as lawyers claiming your grandchild was in an accident and needs $5,000-$6,000 bail money. A person then arrives at your home to collect cash. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately and call your family member directly to verify. Report to Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222 ext. 7300.
Q: Where can I get food assistance in Ottawa?
The Ottawa Food Bank network includes over 70 member agencies providing free, confidential food assistance with no income verification required. Visit ottawafoodbank.ca/get-help/ to find your nearest agency. Services include food cupboards, meal programs, and children’s nutrition programs. You can also call 311 for emergency assistance and referrals.
Q: Are shelters available during the cold snap?
Ottawa’s shelter system is operating over capacity but accepting new intakes. Call 311 for city shelter placement assistance. Emergency resources include the 250 Lanark Ave. temporary shelter (60 beds) and Centre 507 (24/7 drop-in with warming services). Do not sleep outdoors—frostbite can occur within minutes at -30°C wind chill. In emergencies, call 911.
Q: What rent changes affect Ottawa tenants in January?
Renters in older multi-residential buildings may see automatic rent reductions of 0.89 percent starting January 1, 2026, due to municipal property tax reductions from October 2025. On $2,000 monthly rent, that’s about $16/month savings. If your landlord hasn’t issued the required rent reduction notice, contact the Landlord and Tenant Board for guidance.
Q: Are flights still being delayed at Ottawa Airport?
Yes, winter weather caused approximately 1,200 flight cancellations and 2,300 delays across Canada between December 26-30, with backlogs still clearing on January 1. Air Canada, WestJet, Jazz, and Porter have issued weather waivers for free rebooking within seven days. Monitor your airline app continuously before traveling to the airport.
Q: What’s the return-to-office status for federal workers?
Currently, federal public servants must be in the office 3 days per week (executives: 4 days). Prime Minister Mark Carney indicated new requirements will become clearer “over the coming weeks.” Leaked documents suggest the government may require 4 days by July 2026 and 5 days by January 2027. City of Ottawa employees returned to full 5-day office attendance as of January 1.
Final Summary
Ottawa enters 2026 facing overlapping challenges that require immediate attention and careful planning. The most urgent priority is the severe flu season—with three pediatric deaths already recorded, this is not the time to delay vaccination. If you haven’t gotten your flu shot, do it today or tomorrow before schools reopen on January 5.
The extreme cold demands respect. At -30°C wind chill, frostbite can occur in under 15 minutes on exposed skin. Check on vulnerable neighbours, keep pets indoors, and prepare for possible power outages with flashlights, charged devices, and warm blankets.
For federal workers, January brings uncertainty as job cut notifications begin and return-to-office policies remain in flux. Consult union representatives before making any decisions, and document all communications carefully.
Despite the challenges, community resources remain strong. The Ottawa Food Bank network, emergency shelters, and municipal services continue operating throughout the holiday period. If you’re struggling, help is available—call 311 for city services or visit ottawafoodbank.ca/get-help/. For free options, explore free things to do in Ottawa or museums with free admission.
Stay warm, stay healthy, and have a safe start to 2026.
Key Contacts for Ottawa Residents
| Service | Contact |
|---|---|
| Emergency | 911 |
| Shelter/Homelessness | 311 (City of Ottawa) |
| Hydro Ottawa Outages | 613-738-0188 (24/7) |
| Ottawa Public Health | 613-580-6744 |
| Ottawa Food Bank | ottawafoodbank.ca/get-help/ |
| Ottawa Police (Non-Emergency) | 613-236-1222 ext. 7300 |
| OC Transpo | octranspo.com |
| City of Ottawa Services | 311 or ottawa.ca |
| Weather Alerts | Environment Canada or Alert Ready |
Sources & References
Sources cited throughout this article:
- Environment Canada - Weather forecasts and warnings
- Ottawa Public Health - Flu updates and vaccination info
- CHEO - Pediatric health emergency information
- Ottawa Police Service - Scam warnings and safety alerts
- OC Transpo - Transit schedules and fare information
- Hydro Ottawa - Rate changes and outage reporting
- City of Ottawa - Municipal services and shelter access
- Ottawa Food Bank - Food assistance resources
- Ottawa Citizen - Local news reporting
- CBC Ottawa - Local news reporting
This daily news roundup is compiled from multiple Ottawa news sources for January 1, 2026. For breaking updates throughout the day, follow local news outlets and ViaOttawa. Check out more Ottawa local news and events happening in Ottawa.
