Ottawa Daily News: Wednesday, January 15, 2026
Last Updated: January 15, 2026 at 9:30 AM ET
A significant snowstorm is bearing down on Ottawa today with 10-15 cm of heavy snow expected, prompting Environment Canada to issue a snowfall warning for the region. Meanwhile, the federal government officially launches its early retirement incentive program offering 68,000 public servants voluntary exit packages, and Queensway Carleton Hospital operates at 120% capacity amid ongoing flu pressures.
The capital wakes up to winter in full force this Wednesday morning. Ottawa residents should prepare for treacherous road conditions as heavy snow accumulates throughout the day, with wind chill values plunging to -27C overnight. On the policy front, federal workers have 120 days starting today to apply for early retirement under the government’s $1.5 billion program designed to reduce the public service workforce. Hospitals continue struggling with seasonal pressures, while OC Transpo works to address ongoing bus cancellation issues. Despite the weather, the city offers excellent cultural programming this evening with free museum admission and live performances across town.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Environment Canada snowfall warning in effect with 10-15 cm expected today. Federal early retirement program launches for 68,000 public servants. Queensway Carleton Hospital at 120% capacity. Free museum admission tonight 5-8 PM. Michael Buble performs Friday at Canadian Tire Centre.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Wednesday, January 15, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | -9C, heavy snow, wind chill -18C |
| 🚗 Traffic | Hazardous conditions expected |
| 🎉 Top Event | Free museum admission tonight |
| 🏒 Sports | Senators vs Canadiens Saturday |
Breaking News & Important Updates
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Heavy snow blankets Ottawa as the capital braces for a significant winter storm
Major Breaking Developments
Federal Early Retirement Program Launches Today
The federal government officially launched its early retirement incentive program on January 15, offering approximately 68,000 public servants an opportunity to take voluntary early retirement. According to Treasury Board officials, the application window extends for 120 days starting today, with approved employees required to retire within 300 days (approximately 10 months). The government estimates this program will cost $1.5 billion over five years, with nearly half expected to be spent in the coming year, generating approximately $82 million in annual savings through reduced pension contributions. This initiative comes alongside broader workforce reductions targeting 28,000 to 40,000 positions by 2028-29.
IRCC Releases 110,000 Additional Economic Immigration Spots
In a significant one-time allocation, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released 110,000 additional economic-class immigration places on January 6—outside regular quotas. This initiative aims to accelerate processing for workers already in Canada on employer-specific or postgraduate work permits. Employers should act quickly, as once these spots are filled, normal (and more competitive) selection rounds resume. For 2026 overall, Canada will welcome 380,000 permanent residents, down from 395,000 projected for 2025.
City Council Approves Private Landfill Purchase
Ottawa City Council voted 20-5 on January 14 to purchase a private landfill on Boundary Road, addressing the city’s mounting garbage crisis. The purchase price has not been publicly disclosed. This decision follows months of debate about the city’s waste management strategy as the Trail Road landfill approaches capacity limits.
Public Safety
Two Men Charged in 2023 Death Investigation
Two men in their forties were charged in connection with the January 2023 death of an Outaouais man, according to Ottawa Police Service. Further details remain limited as the investigation continues.
Ottawa Man Linked to Home Invasions and Human Trafficking
Ottawa Police announced on January 14 that an Ottawa man has been linked to armed home invasions and human trafficking investigations. The suspect is part of ongoing probes by the Major Crime Unit. One arrest also occurred on January 14 for trespassing at the Iran Embassy during an anti-regime protest.
Weather Warning
Major Snowstorm Today Through Thursday Morning
Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for Ottawa with 10 to 15 centimetres of heavy snow expected today, beginning this morning and persisting through Thursday with peak accumulations in the early morning hours. Wind gusts are forecast to reach 40 km/h from the northwest. Wind chill values will drop to -18C this evening, reaching -27C overnight. Heavy snow rates of 2-4 cm per hour will significantly reduce visibility.
Daytime Temperature: -9C with heavy snow
Overnight Low: -18C
Road Conditions: Treacherous in some areas; exercise extreme caution
What To Do Now (Weather)
Stay home if possible—heavy snow accumulation of 10-15 cm will make roads and sidewalks treacherous. If you must travel, allow significant extra time and keep emergency supplies in your vehicle. Clear snow early and often to avoid heavy buildup, and check on elderly neighbours who may need assistance.
Government & Policy Changes
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Policy changes taking effect in 2026 affect Ottawa residents across multiple areas
Ottawa Property Taxes Rise 3.75%
The City of Ottawa approved a 3.75% property tax increase for 2026, adding approximately $166 to the average homeowner’s bill as part of the $5.2 billion operating budget. The breakdown includes $56 more for city services, $36 for police, and $74 for transit on a typical $415,000 home. Multi-residential units received a tax cut leading to 0.89% rent reductions—approximately $16 per month for a $2,000 rental.
Federal Income Tax Brackets Adjusted
Federal income tax brackets have been adjusted for 2026 with inflation indexing, and the lowest rate is now permanently at 14% (down from 15%), applying to income up to $58,523. Higher brackets are indexed upward, providing modest relief for most taxpayers.
Ontario’s Five-Day Office Mandate in Effect
As of January 7, 2026, Ontario provincial employees have been required to return to in-person work five days per week after years of hybrid arrangements. Ottawa city employees implemented the same five-day mandate as of January 10, 2026. The federal government currently requires three days per week in the office.
New Zoning By-law Advances to Council
Ottawa’s new Zoning By-law final draft advances to Council approval on January 28, 2026, potentially modifying heights in neighbourhood zones and aligning exceptions with the Official Plan. This represents the first comprehensive zoning update in over a decade.
Jobs & Employment
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Federal public service reductions dominate Ottawa’s employment news
Federal Public Service Cuts Accelerate
Federal departments are notifying employees of potential job cuts as part of a plan to eliminate 28,000 to 40,000 positions by 2028-29. Statistics Canada confirmed 850 positions will be cut over two years, with 100 immediate eliminations this week. Shared Services Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) have started processes, prioritizing attrition to minimize impacts.
Job Fairs This Week
Several events target Ottawa job seekers on January 15-16, 2026:
- Ottawa Police Service Sworn Officer Recruiting - Information event today
- VON Online Job Fair - January 14 and 16 (virtual)
- YSB Banking on Your Future with RBC - January 16
- CERC Ottawa Police Information Session - January 19
Employment Insurance Boost
Canada raised EI weekly benefits for 2026, allowing up to $110 more per week for eligible workers facing unemployment. This supports those impacted by public sector adjustments amid slowing private hiring.
Minimum Wage Update
Ontario’s general minimum wage remains $17.60/hour through September 30, 2026, up from $17.20 last year. A projected 2.2% CPI-based increase around October 1, 2026, could raise it to approximately $18/hour, with an official announcement expected by April 1.
Immigration & Newcomers
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Resources and updates for newcomers settling in Ottawa
Express Entry First Draw of 2026
IRCC conducted the first Express Entry draw of 2026, issuing 574 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 711. A subsequent draw on January 7 issued 8,000 ITAs in a Canadian Experience Class round with a minimum CRS score of 511. The next draw is predicted around January 20.
2026 Immigration Levels Announced
Canada will welcome 380,000 permanent residents in 2026—down approximately 15,000 from 2025’s projected 395,000. Student visa issuance will drop significantly from 437,000 in 2025 to 155,000 in 2026. The federal government will accept 230,000 temporary workers (down from 365,000 in 2025) and 56,200 refugees.
Study Permit Updates
Study permit caps continue for 2026 at 408,000 total, but graduate students at public designated learning institutions are uncapped and exempt from Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) requirements, with priority processing. Work permits for TR-to-PR applicants extend to December 31, 2026.
Settlement Services in Ottawa
Free services are available through:
- YMCA Newcomer Information Centre - Immigration guidance, housing, employment, webinars
- Ottawa Chinese Community Service Centre (OCCSC) - Settlement, language training, job workshops
- LINC Classes - Free for permanent residents at Ottawa-Carleton Catholic School Board sites
Health & Wellness
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Ottawa hospitals face ongoing capacity pressures
Queensway Carleton Hospital at Crisis Capacity
Queensway Carleton Hospital is currently operating at 120 percent capacity, with 75 patients accommodated in non-traditional spaces. Emergency department wait times have averaged 13 hours during the peak flu period. The hospital handles approximately 83,000 annual emergency visits compared to its designed capacity of 63,000. Hospital leadership is requesting provincial funding for a 90-bed expansion and AI healthcare technologies.
ER Wait Times Remain High
Ottawa’s five hospital ERs consistently exceed Ontario’s provincial average of about 2 hours. The Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus averages 2.7-3.5 hours for initial doctor assessment, while General Campus shows approximately 2.1 hours. Montfort Hospital offers shorter waits among local options. Visit ottawahospital.on.ca for live updates.
Flu Season Strains Hospitals
While influenza cases in Ontario appear to be declining after peaking in December, Ottawa’s hospitals remain under significant pressure. Flu-related admissions continue to drive extended emergency department wait times. Free flu and COVID-19 vaccines remain available at pharmacies and Ottawa Public Health clinics—book via the provincial portal or call 1-833-943-3900.
Walk-In Clinic Availability Today
- Appletree Medical Centre (225 Preston St.) - Registration opens 1:30 PM, typical wait 25 minutes
- Centrum Pharmacy (210 Centrum Blvd., Orleans) - Walk-ins Fridays/Saturdays 9:30 AM-1:30 PM
Mental Health Resources
The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre offers crisis support:
- Bilingual crisis line: (613) 722-6914
- Distress line: (613) 238-3311
- Text support: (343) 306-5550 (10 AM-11 PM)
A new urgent care clinic opens in April 2026 for same/next-day psychiatric assessments and counselling.
Scams & Fraud Alerts
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Active scams targeting Ottawa residents require vigilance
Recent fraud alerts highlight active scams targeting Ottawa residents, including grandparent phone scams and government impersonation schemes reported by local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC). For more information on protecting yourself, read our guide on romance scams in Ottawa. These threats persist into January 2026, with emphasis on urgency tactics and demands for immediate payments.
Grandparent Scam
Scammers call pretending to be a grandchild in trouble, often needing urgent cash for bail or legal fees, and request secrecy or e-transfers. Identify it by the high-pressure urgency, unknown caller demanding money without verification, or requests for couriers to collect cash. If targeted, hang up, contact the real relative directly, and report to local police and CAFC at 1-888-495-8501.
CRA/Government Impersonation
Fraudsters pose as CRA officials via phone, threatening arrest or deportation unless immediate payment via gift cards, crypto, or e-transfer is made. Red flags include aggressive threats, unusual payment methods, and unsolicited demands for personal information. The CRA never pressures this way. Do not engage—verify independently via canada.ca.
Bank Investigator Scam
Callers spoof bank numbers, claim account fraud, and instruct victims to hand over cut-up cards or PINs to a “courier,” leading to account takeovers. Alert your bank immediately if contacted, freeze accounts, and notify Ottawa Police Financial Crimes at 613-236-1222 ext. 5492.
Online Marketplace Fraud
Sellers on Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace receive fake e-transfer confirmations linking to phishing sites mimicking banks to steal login credentials. Verify payments directly in your bank app before shipping—ignore emailed receipts or suspicious links.
How to Protect Yourself
- Never provide personal information or payment to unsolicited callers
- Hang up and verify claims through official channels
- Register on the Do Not Call List
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication
- Report scams to Ottawa Police (613-236-1222) and CAFC
Transit & Getting Around
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
OC Transpo continues addressing service reliability challenges
OC Transpo Service Update
OC Transpo reports no major service disruptions on January 15, following recent improvements after last week’s bus cancellations. However, the snowfall warning will likely cause delays throughout the day—check octranspo.com/alerts for real-time updates.
Bus Cancellations Continue
OC Transpo acknowledges that unacceptable levels of undelivered bus trips persist due to aging fleet maintenance backlogs and staffing shortages. Short-term improvements include revised maintenance prioritization and preventative measures. Medium-term solutions involve recruitment campaigns for mechanics and bus operators, plus delivery of 110 additional electric buses by April 2026. By year-end 2026, approximately 234 new electric buses are expected to be in service.
Winter Service Changes
Winter 2026 changes effective January 5 include:
- Route 26 - Added trips from Blair Station (9:45 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:45 AM, 12:50 PM)
- Route 86 - Adjusted peak service to Colonnade Road every 30 minutes
- Route 105 - Extended early mornings from Limebank Station (5 AM, 5:28 AM)
- Route 163 - Now starts at Hazeldean at Carp Road
Fare Increase
Fares increased 2.5% on January 1: adult single ride is now $4.10, monthly pass $138.50. Para Transpo seniors 65+ get four free trips monthly via Presto refund.
Road Conditions Today
The snowfall warning means roads and highways will deteriorate quickly with accumulating snow, heavy rates up to 2-4 cm/hour, and icy untreated surfaces possible. Allow extra travel time citywide. Ongoing construction includes southbound lane reductions on Woodroffe Avenue for watermain repair.
Parking Updates
The 2026 budget allows up to $8 hourly maximum in city garages (+23%), $26 daily, $275 monthly pass. On-street rates unchanged but remain demand-based.
Live Music Tonight: Where to Catch a Show
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Live music venues across Ottawa offer entertainment despite the winter weather
National Arts Centre Orchestra
- Time: 8:00 PM
- Event: Mozart, Marquez & Pablo Sainz Villegas
- Location: Southam Hall, 1 Elgin Street
- Tickets: From $47
TARG Monthly Pinball Tournament
- Time: 8:00 PM start
- Event: Competitive pinball with prizes
- Location: House of TARG, 1077 Bank Street
- Cost: Free entry ($1 tournament fee)
Pro-Am Comedy Show
- Time: 8:30 PM
- Headliner: Craig Fay
- Location: Absolute Comedy, 412 Preston Street
- Tickets: $15
Heart & Crown Live Music
- Time: 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM
- Artist: Strum Chums duo
- Location: Heart & Crown, 67 Clarence Street (ByWard Market)
- Cost: No cover
Spenny Live (Music & Comedy)
- Time: 9:00 PM (doors 8:00 PM)
- Location: Dominion Tavern, 33 York Street
- Age: 19+
Theatre & Shows This Weekend
January 15-18, 2026
Major performances highlight Ottawa’s vibrant arts scene
Michael Buble Concert
- Date: Friday, January 16, 8:00 PM
- Location: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive, Kanata
- Details: Iconic Canadian singer celebrates the venue’s 30th anniversary with jazz, ballads, and classics
- Tickets: $23-$80+ via Ticketmaster
The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers – In Concert
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 7:00 PM
- Location: TD Place Arena, 1015 Bank Street
- Details: FILMharmonique Orchestra (250+ musicians) performs Howard Shore’s Academy Award-winning score live to the film in HD. Intermission at 81 minutes; Part 2 is 99 minutes. Rating: 14+
- Tickets: From $132
Joke Signals Comedy
- Date: January 16 at 8:30 PM, January 17 at 8:30 PM
- Performers: Chad Anderson, Clifton Cremo, Dakota Hebert
- Location: Laugh Lounge Comedy Club
- Tickets: Check venue website
FemmeVox 10 (Music/Theatre)
- Date: Saturday, January 18, 7:30 PM
- Location: Great Canadian Theatre Company (GCTC)
- Details: Singer-songwriters showcase
- Tickets: Pay-what-you-choose ($25-$45 sliding scale)
Art Battle Ottawa
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Location: Overflow Brewing Company, 2477 Kaladar Avenue
- Details: Live competitive painting event with three rounds. Watch artists create masterpieces in 20 minutes; vote for winners. Silent auction of original works
- Tickets: $25.50
Sports This Weekend
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Professional and amateur sports action in Ottawa this week
Ottawa Senators vs Montreal Canadiens
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 7:00 PM ET
- Location: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Drive
- Details: Classic rivalry matchup. Stadium celebrating 30th anniversary
- Tickets: From $99 via SeatGeek or Ticketmaster
- Parking: CAA members save $13 on parking
Ottawa Senators Schedule
- January 14: at New York Rangers (away)
- January 17: vs Montreal Canadiens (home)
- January 18: at Detroit Red Wings (away)
Ottawa 67’s (OHL)
No home game on January 15. Check TD Place Arena schedule for upcoming games.
Ottawa Redblacks (CFL)
The Redblacks are out of season. The 2026 CFL campaign starts June 6 versus Edmonton.
University Sports
No confirmed home games for Carleton Ravens or Ottawa Gee-Gees on January 15. Monitor goravens.ca and geegeesplex.ca for upcoming schedules.
Museums & Attractions: What’s Open Today
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Free Thursday evening admission at major national museums
Free Thursday Evening Admission (5:00-8:00 PM)
All major national museums offer free general admission today from 5:00 PM to closing. Timed tickets may be required—book online in advance. For more ideas, see our indoor activities guide.
Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (free 4:00-5:00 PM)
- Location: 1867 St. Laurent Boulevard
- Exhibits: Steam: A World in Motion, ZOOOM Children’s Innovation Zone, Crazy Kitchen
- Admission: Free for youth 17 and under via Canada Strong Pass
Canadian Museum of Nature
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM (free 5:00-8:00 PM)
- Location: 240 McLeod Street
- Exhibits: Fossil Gallery with dinosaur skeletons, Butterflies in Flight, blue whale skeleton
- Note: Museum closed January 19-28 for annual maintenance
National Gallery of Canada
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM (free 5:00-8:00 PM)
- Location: 380 Sussex Drive
- Exhibits: Winter Count: Embracing the Cold, Camera and the City
- Note: Annual maintenance January 13-16 may affect access—confirm directly
- Admission: Adults $22, children 11 and under free
Canadian War Museum
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (free 5:00-7:00 PM Thursdays)
- Location: 1 Vimy Place
- Exhibits: Last Voices of the Second World War (until January 18), Canada at War Against Japan
Canadian Aviation and Space Museum
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Location: 11 Aviation Parkway
- Admission: Adults approximately $16.75
Diefenbunker
- Hours: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Tuesday-Sunday)
- Location: Carp
- Tours: Self-guided Highlights Tours covering Blast Tunnel and Prime Minister’s Suite
Skating & Winter Recreation
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
The Rideau Canal Skateway offers world-famous skating when conditions allow
Rideau Canal Skateway
- Status: Open (weather permitting)
- Current Length: 3.4 km (Bank Street to Somerset Street)
- Hours: 24/7 when ice conditions allow
- Cost: Free
- Amenities: Universally accessible ramps, BeaverTails stands, warm-up shelters
- Note: Heavy snowfall today may affect skating conditions—check NCC website for real-time updates
For more free things to do in Ottawa, including winter activities, check our comprehensive guide.
City Outdoor Rinks
- Jim Tubman Chevrolet Rink - Open 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM weekdays (weather permitting)
- Skate rentals available at select locations
- Season runs November through April
Skiing Conditions
Camp Fortune (Chelsea, QC)
- Conditions: Machine-groomed granular snow, 60 cm base
- Trails Open: 75% (5/5/6 lifts operating)
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Details: Excellent conditions for mid-January
Mont Cascades (Cascades, QC)
- Conditions: Machine-groomed/variable, 18” base
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM weekdays
Calabogie Peaks
- Conditions: Snow expected, 7 cm new in 48 hours
- Note: Verify daily conditions on resort website
Looking for more winter activities? Check out our guide to toboggan hills in Ottawa and indoor activities for cold days.
Dining & Nightlife
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Ottawa’s dining scene offers warm escapes from the winter weather
Live Music Tonight
Heart & Crown ByWard Market
- Strum Chums duo on the Heart stage
- 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM
- Part of daily live entertainment in the Irish Village
- Location: 67 Clarence Street
Dominion Tavern
- Spenny Live (music and comedy)
- Doors 8:00 PM, show 9:00 PM
- Location: 33 York Street
- Age: 19+
Happy Hour Specials
Starling Restaurant (ByWard Market)
- Early bird happy hour: 3:00-6:00 PM and 10:00 PM-close
- $6 libations: bar rail cocktails, select wines, beers, sangria
- Plus affordable nibbles
Luxe Ottawa (ByWard Market)
- $2.50 oysters
- $10 cocktails
Chop Ottawa Hunt Club
- Happy hour: 2:00-6:00 PM and 9:00 PM-close
- Lounge and patio setting
For warmer weather entertainment options, browse our list of best patios in Ottawa.
Library Programs & Free Events
January 15-17, 2026
Free programming at Ottawa Public Library branches
Ottawa Public Library hosts numerous drop-in storytimes, rhymes, and social groups on January 15 at branches across the city. Most programs are free with no registration required.
Wednesday, January 15:
- Cumberland Branch - 10:15 AM: Seniors coffee and puzzles, babytime
- Orleans Branch - 10:15 AM: Family storytime
- Sunnyside Branch - 10:15 AM: Bilingual storytime
- Main Branch - 10:15 AM: Toddler rhymes
- Ruth E. Dickinson Branch - 10:30 AM: Family storytime
- Nepean Centrepointe Branch - 10:30 AM: English conversation circle, babytime
Community Events This Weekend:
- BON Market - National Arts Centre, January 16: Community market featuring local women-led businesses, artisans, and food. Free entry
- Garba Party - 200 Lees Avenue #142, Saturday, January 17 at 4:00 PM. For those unfamiliar with this traditional Indian dance celebration, see our complete guide to Garba nights in Ottawa.
- SANKRANTHI 2026 - Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre, Saturday, January 17 at 4:00 PM. Learn more about this Hindu harvest festival in our Makar Sankranti and Pongal guide.
Museum Free Access
Youth 17 and under receive free admission at national museums through the Canada Strong Pass. Available at Canadian Museum of Nature, Canada Science and Technology Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, and others. Timed tickets often required.
Weather Outlook
As of 9:30 AM ET, January 15, 2026
Heavy snowfall blankets Ottawa as a significant winter storm moves through
Today (Wednesday, January 15):
Heavy snow accumulation of 10-15 cm is expected throughout the day, with rates reaching 2-4 cm per hour at times. High temperature steady near -9C. Northwest winds of 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h will reduce visibility significantly. Wind chill values reach -18C this evening, dropping to -27C overnight. Low of -18C.
Thursday, January 16:
Periods of snow continuing early, transitioning to flurries by late morning. High of -5C, low of -5C. Wind chill -5C to -8C. 60% chance of flurries continuing through the night.
Friday, January 17:
Cloudy with 60% chance of flurries. High of -3C, low of -13C. Conditions moderating.
Weekend Outlook:
Saturday brings cloudy skies with 60% chance of flurries. Temperatures remain cold with highs around -3C. Conditions expected to stabilize heading into the following week.
What To Do Now (Weather)
Stay home if possible—heavy snow accumulation of 10-15 cm combined with gusty winds will make roads and sidewalks treacherous. If you must travel, allow significant extra time and keep emergency supplies in your vehicle including a shovel, blanket, and snacks. Clear snow from walkways early and often. Check on elderly neighbours who may need assistance shovelling.
Weekend Events at a Glance
Thursday, January 15:
- NAC Orchestra: Mozart, Marquez & Pablo Sainz Villegas @ NAC, 8:00 PM ($47+)
- TARG Monthly Pinball Tournament @ House of TARG, 8:00 PM (FREE)
- Pro-Am Comedy Show @ Absolute Comedy, 8:30 PM ($15)
- Free Museum Admission @ All National Museums, 5:00-8:00 PM (FREE)
Friday, January 16:
- Michael Buble @ Canadian Tire Centre, 8:00 PM ($23-$80+)
- BON Market @ National Arts Centre (FREE)
- Joke Signals Comedy @ Laugh Lounge, 8:30 PM
Saturday, January 17:
- The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers – In Concert @ TD Place, 7:00 PM ($132+)
- Ottawa Senators vs Montreal Canadiens @ Canadian Tire Centre, 7:00 PM ($99+)
- Art Battle Ottawa @ Overflow Brewing, 7:00 PM ($25.50)
- Joke Signals Comedy @ Laugh Lounge, 8:30 PM
- Garba Party @ 200 Lees Avenue, 4:00 PM
- SANKRANTHI 2026 @ Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre, 4:00 PM
Sunday, January 18:
- FemmeVox 10 @ GCTC, 7:30 PM ($25-$45 pay-what-you-choose)
- Live Music with Rich McLovin @ Domaine Perrault, 1:00-3:00 PM
All Weekend:
- Rideau Canal Skateway (weather permitting)
- Skiing at Camp Fortune, Mont Cascades, Calabogie Peaks
- City outdoor rinks (weather permitting)
Coming Soon:
- Winterlude 2026: January 30 - February 16 at Confederation Park and Jacques-Cartier Park
Explore our guide to Ottawa’s history and discover how the capital became the winter celebration destination it is today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a snowfall warning in effect for Ottawa today?
Yes, Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for Ottawa on January 15, 2026. Between 10-15 cm of heavy snow is expected throughout the day, with rates reaching 2-4 cm per hour at times. Wind gusts to 40 km/h will reduce visibility and create drifting. Road conditions will be treacherous.
Q: What is the federal early retirement incentive program?
The federal government launched an early retirement incentive program on January 15, 2026, offering approximately 68,000 public servants voluntary early retirement packages. Eligible employees have 120 days to apply and must retire within 300 days if approved. The program is expected to cost $1.5 billion over five years while generating $82 million in annual pension savings.
Q: Are Ottawa hospitals overcrowded right now?
Yes, Ottawa hospitals face significant capacity pressures. Queensway Carleton Hospital is operating at 120% capacity with 75 patients in non-traditional spaces. Emergency department wait times have averaged 13 hours during the peak flu period. The Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus averages 2.7-3.5 hours for initial assessment.
Q: Which museums offer free admission tonight?
All major national museums offer free general admission on Thursday evenings from 5:00-8:00 PM, including the National Gallery of Canada, Canadian Museum of Nature, Canadian War Museum, and Canadian Museum of History. Timed tickets may be required—book online in advance.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open today?
The Rideau Canal Skateway is open with 3.4 km available from Bank Street to Somerset Street. However, heavy snowfall today may affect skating conditions. Check the NCC website at ncc-ccn.gc.ca for real-time updates before heading out.
Q: How much did Ottawa property taxes increase for 2026?
Ottawa property taxes increased 3.75% for 2026, adding approximately $166 to the average homeowner’s bill on a $415,000 home. The breakdown includes $56 for city services, $36 for police, and $74 for transit.
Q: What major concerts are happening this weekend in Ottawa?
Michael Buble performs at Canadian Tire Centre on Friday, January 16 at 8:00 PM, with tickets from $23-$80+. On Saturday, January 17, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers – In Concert features the FILMharmonique Orchestra at TD Place Arena at 7:00 PM, with tickets from $132.
Q: When do the Ottawa Senators play next?
The Ottawa Senators host the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday, January 17 at 7:00 PM at Canadian Tire Centre. Tickets start at $99. The team then travels to Detroit on January 18.
Q: What are the current OC Transpo fares for 2026?
OC Transpo fares increased 2.5% on January 1, 2026. Adult single ride is now $4.10, and monthly passes cost $138.50. Para Transpo seniors 65+ receive four free trips monthly via Presto refund.
Q: How can I report a scam in Ottawa?
Report scams to Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222 and file a report with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca. Never provide personal information or payment to unsolicited callers.
Q: What are the ski conditions at Camp Fortune today?
Camp Fortune reports machine-groomed granular snow with a 60 cm base and 75% of trails open. All lifts are operating, and hours are 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Conditions are excellent for mid-January skiing.
Q: Where can I find free COVID and flu vaccines in Ottawa?
Free flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available at pharmacies across Ottawa and through Ottawa Public Health clinics for ages 6 months and up. Book via the provincial portal or call 1-833-943-3900.
Q: What happened with Ottawa’s garbage crisis?
Ottawa City Council voted 20-5 on January 14 to purchase a private landfill on Boundary Road to address the city’s waste management crisis. The purchase price has not been publicly disclosed. This comes as the Trail Road landfill approaches capacity limits.
Q: How many federal jobs are being cut in Ottawa?
Federal departments are implementing cuts targeting 28,000 to 40,000 positions by 2028-29. Statistics Canada confirmed 850 positions will be cut over two years, with 100 immediate eliminations this week. Departments are prioritizing attrition to minimize layoffs.
Q: When does Winterlude 2026 start?
Winterlude 2026 runs from January 30 to February 16 at Confederation Park and Jacques-Cartier Park in Ottawa-Gatineau. Features include ice sculptures, snow slides, a Ferris wheel, live music, and the Snowflake Kingdom snow playground. This marks the first year Confederation Park hosts the Crystal Garden since 2018.
Final Summary
Ottawa faces a challenging but eventful Wednesday, January 15, 2026. The headline story is the significant snowstorm bringing 10-15 cm of accumulation—residents should stay home if possible and allow extra travel time if venturing out. On the policy front, the federal early retirement program officially launches today, offering 68,000 public servants a pathway to voluntary exit. Meanwhile, hospitals continue grappling with capacity pressures from flu season, and OC Transpo works to resolve ongoing bus reliability issues.
Despite the weather, the city offers excellent cultural programming. Free museum admission is available tonight at all major national museums from 5:00-8:00 PM. Music lovers can catch the NAC Orchestra performing Mozart this evening, while this weekend brings Michael Buble on Friday and The Lord of the Rings orchestral concert on Saturday. The Senators host Montreal on Saturday night for a classic rivalry matchup.
Looking ahead, Winterlude 2026 kicks off January 30 with ice sculptures returning to Confederation Park for the first time since 2018. For more outdoor adventures year-round, explore our guide to hiking trails in Ottawa. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy what Ottawa has to offer.
Sources & References
Sources cited throughout this article:
- Environment Canada - Weather warnings and forecasts
- Ottawa Police Service - Public safety updates
- OC Transpo - Transit service information
- City of Ottawa - Municipal news and bylaws
- Treasury Board of Canada - Federal employment policies
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada - Immigration updates
- Ottawa Public Health - Health advisories
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre - Scam alerts
- National Capital Commission - Rideau Canal Skateway status
- Ottawa Senators - Sports schedules
- National Arts Centre - Arts and cultural events
- Ottawa Public Library - Library programs
This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents on January 15, 2026. For the latest updates, check venue websites and social media. Weather conditions change rapidly—always verify before traveling.
