Ottawa Daily News: January 16, 2026
Last Updated: January 16, 2026 at 8:30 AM ET
A major winter storm has blanketed Ottawa with up to 35 cm of snow, forcing a city-wide parking ban and causing widespread transit disruptions. Meanwhile, Michael Bublé takes the stage at Canadian Tire Centre tonight for a milestone 30th-anniversary celebration, and the Ottawa 67’s face off against their arch-rivals the Gatineau Olympiques at TD Place.
Ottawa wakes up to a transformed winter landscape this Thursday morning, with Environment Canada’s snowfall warning still in effect after the season’s most significant storm dumped snow across the region. The bitter cold—with wind chills plunging to -28°C—makes this a day to bundle up and plan ahead. OC Transpo continues to recover from service disruptions, while police have announced a major breakthrough in a violent crime investigation that spanned nearly two years. For those braving the elements, tonight offers entertainment highlights from hockey to hip-hop tributes, capping off a day that demands both caution and celebration in Canada’s capital.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Winter storm with 20-35 cm of snow has triggered a parking ban and transit delays across Ottawa. OC Transpo service improving after January 5 crisis. Michael Bublé headlines at CTC tonight. Ottawa 67’s host Battle of the Ottawa River against Gatineau. Police charge suspect in multi-year home invasion investigation.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Thursday, January 16, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | High -11°C, snow this evening, wind chill -28°C |
| 🚗 Traffic | Winter parking ban 7 PM-7 AM, expect delays |
| 🎉 Top Event | Michael Bublé at Canadian Tire Centre, 8 PM |
| 🏒 Sports | 67’s vs Olympiques at TD Place, 7 PM |
Breaking News & Important Updates
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 16, 2026
Major Breaking Developments
Winter Storm Emergency: 20-35 cm of Snow Hits Ottawa
Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning for Ottawa, with the season’s most significant storm dropping 20-35 cm of snow across the region. The weather system created dangerous flash-freeze conditions overnight, and Ontario Provincial Police responded to nearly a dozen collisions across eastern Ontario during the storm’s onset.
The City of Ottawa has activated a winter parking ban from 7 PM to 7 AM to facilitate snow removal operations. All city crews are deployed to clear priority roads, sidewalks, bus routes, and the Transitway. Residents should expect significant delays and consider postponing non-essential travel today.
OC Transpo Service Crisis Update
OC Transpo continues recovering from a catastrophic service failure on January 5 that saw 700-800 bus trips cancelled—approximately 6% of scheduled service. The ongoing crisis stems from three major issues: an aging bus fleet requiring complex maintenance, a shortage of licensed mechanics creating repair backlogs, and supply chain delays leaving only 36 of 350 planned electric buses operational. Transit Committee Chair Glen Gower states service has improved since January 5, and the city has secured used buses from other municipalities as a temporary measure.
IRCC Releases 110,000 Additional Immigration Spots
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada released 110,000 additional economic-class immigration places effective January 6, 2026. This one-time allocation—outside the regular Immigration Levels Plan—aims to clear application backlogs and address acute labour shortages. Most spots will go to workers already in Canada on employer-specific or postgraduate work permits. Once filled, normal competitive selection rounds resume.
Public Safety
Police Charge Suspect in Multi-Year Home Invasion Investigation
Ottawa Police Service announced charges against a 26-year-old man connected to at least three violent home invasions and other regional crimes. The investigation, launched in 2024, involves collaboration with Brockville Police and Russell County OPP.
The incidents span over a year: an armed robbery in Vanier on December 29, 2024, where a victim was forcibly removed from a vehicle at gunpoint; firearms discharged into an Ottawa South End home on Black Canary Drive on January 20, 2025; and five armed suspects invading an Orléans residence on Marinoff Drive on October 24, 2025. The accused faces multiple charges including armed robbery, conspiracy, breaking and entering, firearms offences, and wearing a disguise during crimes. Police believe the same individual is linked to shootings in Brockville and a firearm-involved invasion in Limoges.
Increased Police Presence in Beacon Hill South
Ottawa police are increasing their presence in Beacon Hill South-Cardinal Heights near Arrowsmith Drive for follow-up on a criminal investigation. Activity is expected over the next few days starting January 15. Residents may notice additional officers and vehicles in the area.
Hamilton Teen Charged in Swatting Incidents
A Hamilton teen from Ottawa was charged on January 15 in connection with seven swatting incidents in December and January. Swatting involves making fake emergency calls to trigger armed police responses to innocent victims’ addresses—a dangerous practice that wastes emergency resources and puts lives at risk.
What To Do Now
Move your car off the street before 7 PM to avoid tickets and towing during the winter parking ban. If you must travel, allow extra time—OPP reports nearly a dozen collisions since the storm began. Check OC Transpo’s real-time updates at octranspo.com before heading out.
Government & Policy Changes
As of January 16, 2026
New policies and tax changes affecting Ottawa residents in 2026
Recycling Collection Now Under Provincial System
As of January 1, 2026, the City of Ottawa no longer handles blue and black box recycling collection. Miller Waste Services now manages household pickup under Ontario’s province-wide “producer responsibility” system. Residents keep using existing bins at the curb, but collection times may differ from past city schedules. The good news: more items are now accepted, including coffee cups and additional plastic containers.
Property Tax Deadlines Set for 2026
The City has confirmed 2026 property tax administration details: interim bills are set at 50% of 2025 adjusted taxes, with interim taxes due March 19, 2026, and final taxes due June 18, 2026. Penalty and interest on overdue arrears remain at 1.25% per month (15% per year), unchanged from 2025.
New Zoning By-law Coming January 28
Ottawa’s new city-wide zoning by-law moves through final approval, with council expected to vote on January 28, 2026. Once passed, the changes will reshape housing options across neighbourhoods, allowing more three-storey buildings and adjusting parking rules to enable more housing near transit.
Federal Tax Cuts Take Effect
Budget 2025’s middle-class federal tax cut is now in effect for the 2026 tax year, reducing income-tax burdens for about 22 million Canadians. The federal consumer carbon price on fuels has been cancelled, reducing gasoline prices by roughly 18 cents per litre.
Jobs & Employment
As of January 16, 2026
Federal public service facing significant cuts while job fairs continue
Federal Public Service Layoffs Continue
Federal departments are notifying public servants of position eliminations as part of Budget 2025’s plan to cut around 40,000 positions by 2028-29. Statistics Canada plans to eliminate 850 positions over two years, including 100 immediate cuts this week. Shared Services Canada is affecting over 1,000 jobs, with 477 terminations including approximately 200 IT roles.
Job Fairs This Week
Several employment events are happening around January 16:
- VON Online Job Fair (virtual, January 16)
- YSB Banking on Your Future with RBC (Ottawa, January 16)
- CERC Ottawa Police Service Recruitment Session (January 19)
- ASHRAE/CMAS Career Fair for HVAC/engineering students (January 21)
Ontario Job Posting Rules Now in Effect
From January 1, 2026, Ontario employers with 25 or more employees must disclose compensation in job postings and cannot require “Canadian experience” in most cases. Employers must keep copies of postings, applications, and information provided to interviewed applicants for three years.
Immigration & Newcomers
As of January 16, 2026
Settlement services and immigration updates for Ottawa newcomers
Express Entry: 8,000 ITAs in First 2026 Draw
IRCC issued 8,000 Invitations to Apply in the first Express Entry draw of 2026 on January 7, targeting Canadian Experience Class candidates with a minimum CRS score of 511. Master’s and PhD students at public designated learning institutions are now exempt from study permit caps and Provincial Attestation Letter requirements, with priority processing available.
Study Permit Caps for 2026
Study permit allocations limit new issuances to about 155,000 nationally, down from prior years. Ontario receives 104,780 of 309,670 total application spaces. The Start-up Visa program closed to new applications December 31, 2025, though extensions are possible for existing holders during PR processing.
Settlement Services in Ottawa
Free settlement services are available through multiple organizations:
- Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization offers needs assessments, orientation on housing, health, and legal systems
- Catholic Centre for Immigrants provides housing aid, mental health support, and school registration assistance
- Ottawa Chinese Community Service Centre delivers one-stop services including job workshops
Language Programs
Free Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes run through Ottawa-Carleton Catholic School Board at St. Joseph’s Adult School (CLB levels 1-6, including Deaf classes) and St. Nicholas Adult High School. Programs offer full and part-time options with childcare.
Health & Wellness
As of January 16, 2026
Hospital capacity remains high as respiratory illness season continues
Hospital Wait Times Elevated
Hospital wait times at The Ottawa Hospital, Queensway Carleton Hospital, and CHEO remain above provincial averages. Recent reports show occupancy at 114% with medicine units at 133% as of early January. Respiratory illnesses continue to strain capacity.
Flu and COVID-19 Update
Flu levels in Ottawa remain high but stable into early 2026. Influenza A cases peaked around the holidays and strained pediatric hospitals like CHEO, where flu positives dropped from 300 in early December to 48 in early January. COVID-19 levels are moderate and stable, while RSV remains high and stable.
Vaccinations Available
Free flu and COVID-19 vaccines (for ages 6 months and up) are available at pharmacies, healthcare providers, and Ottawa Public Health clinics. Book via Ottawa Public Health or call 1-833-943-3900. RSV vaccines are available for adults 75 and older.
Mental Health Support
Crisis resources are available 24/7:
- Crisis line: (613) 722-6914
- Distress line: (613) 238-3311
- Text support (10 AM-11 PM): (343) 306-5550
- National 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline
What To Do Now (Health)
If you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, book an appointment today—flu season peaked over the holidays but remains active. Expect longer emergency wait times due to high hospital occupancy. For non-emergencies, consider walk-in clinics like Appletree Medical Centre on Preston Street.
Scams & Fraud Alerts
As of January 16, 2026
Common scams targeting Ottawa residents and how to protect yourself
No specific new fraud alerts for Ottawa residents have been reported today, but common scams continue to target Canadians with fraud losses exceeding $600 million annually. Ottawa Police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre emphasize vigilance.
Phone Scams Active in Ottawa
CRA scammers call or spoof caller IDs, threatening arrest for fake debts and demanding payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency. Grandparent scams involve fraudsters posing as lawyers claiming a relative needs urgent bail money—quick intervention recently stopped a $6,000 grandparent scam in Ottawa. Bank investigator fraudsters claim your account is compromised, instructing victims to hand over cut-up cards to couriers who then drain accounts.
Email and Phishing Threats
Phishing emails mimic CRA refunds or EFILE updates, linking to fake sites that steal credentials. Texts promising GST credits demand personal data. Look for urgent demands, poor grammar, unsolicited links, or spoofed sender addresses. Delete without clicking and report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Online Marketplace Safety
Sellers on Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace have arranged meets only to assault or rob victims. Always check profiles for legitimacy and use Ottawa Police Safe Trade Zones at police stations for transactions. Never meet in private locations or share personal banking information.
Cryptocurrency and Investment Scams
Fake platforms promising high returns via social media ads continue to trap victims who deposit cryptocurrency but cannot withdraw. Regulators shut down thousands of these sites in 2025. If someone contacts you with unsolicited high-yield investment offers or pressure tactics, it’s almost certainly fraud.
How to Report
Contact Ottawa Police Fraud Section at 613-236-1222 ext. 5292 for local incidents, or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or antifraudcentre.ca for all suspicions.
Transit & Getting Around
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 16, 2026
OC Transpo service affected by winter storm and ongoing fleet issues
Bus Disruptions Today
Multiple OC Transpo routes face detours and out-of-service stops due to snow and road conditions. Key affected routes include:
- Routes 17 and 25: Detoured on Montreal Road; missed stops at Wanaki/Mikinak and Hemlock/Codd’s—use Carson/Montréal or Montréal/Hochelaga instead
- Route 33: Detour via Portobello/Stormwind/Esprit; use Porto/Summer Days stop
- Route 117: Detour on Woodroffe/Slack; use Woodroffe/Nepean Sportplex stop
- Route 10: Multiple detours in Lowertown; use King Edward/Osgoode as alternative
O-Train Status
Lines 1, 2, and 4 operate on normal weekday schedules. Lines 2 and 4 have expanded to six days (Monday-Saturday) since January. The Walkley NB elevator is out for maintenance—use the Heron workaround. Line 1 testing for the east extension to Trim Road begins early 2026.
Road Conditions
Roads remain hazardous from heavy snow, reduced visibility, and blowing snow. City crews are prioritizing clearing priority roads, bus routes, and sidewalks. A winter parking ban is in effect from 7 PM to 7 AM. Gas prices sit around $1.31/L for regular and $1.47/L for diesel.
Para Transpo
No service disruptions noted. Fares increased 2.5% since January 1 (rural trips now $11). Seniors 65+ receive 4 free monthly trips via Presto refund.
What To Do Now (Transit)
Check OC Transpo’s service alerts before leaving home—expect delays of 15-30 minutes on affected routes. If driving, allow extra travel time and avoid Highway 416/417 during rush hour if possible. The winter parking ban means street parking is prohibited 7 PM to 7 AM.
Live Music Tonight: Where to Catch a Show
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 16, 2026
Michael Bublé headlines at Canadian Tire Centre celebrating 30 years
Michael Bublé at Canadian Tire Centre
- Time: 8:00 PM
- Location: 1000 Palladium Dr., Kanata
- Price: Tickets from $26
- The Grammy-winning crooner brings his jazz, swing, and soul hits to celebrate CTC’s 30th anniversary. Arrive early for special anniversary festivities.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa
- Miss McLeod: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
- Los Desperados as The Eagles: 9:30 PM - 11:00 PM (DJ until 1 AM)
- Free admission at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa
House of TARG (1077 Bank St.)
- The Oscillators: 8:00 PM
- Electronic music performance with TARG’s signature pinball and perogies
Heart & Crown ByWard (67 Clarence St.)
- Sam Stone Duo: Heart Stage, 9 PM - 1 AM
- The County Lads: McGintey’s Stage, 10 PM - 2 AM
- DJ Grusm: Nan’s Parlour, 10 PM - 2 AM
Son Latin Ottawa Band
- Time: 9:30 PM
- Location: With DJs Rorro Juergas
- Free admission for Latin music lovers
Theatre & Shows This Month
January 2026 Theatre Calendar
Copperbelt and other productions at NAC and local theatres
Tonight at National Arts Centre
- Copperbelt by Natasha Mumba featuring Black Out Night (BON) event starting 6:00 PM with pre-show BON Market celebrating women-led businesses from African and Caribbean diasporas
This Weekend
- The Band / Radiohead Tribute Show at Great Canadian Theatre Company (GCTC), Saturday January 17
- Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers in Concert at TD Place Arena, Saturday January 17 at 7:00 PM - live orchestral performance synced to the film
Comedy Shows
- Joke Signals featuring Chad Anderson, Clifton Cremo & Dakota Hebert at Laugh Lounge, 8:30 PM tonight and Saturday
- Pros n Joes at Laugh Lounge, 8:00 PM Sunday January 18
Nightlife Events
- Drag Me To 2026! at LIVE! on Elgin (220 Elgin St.), 8:00 PM tonight
- HOTT STUFF Edition IV at The 27 Club (27 York St.), 10:00 PM - 2:00 AM
- Ottawa Frost Mayhem 2026 winter semester kickoff (18+) at Solena Nightclub, Gatineau, 10:00 PM - 3:00 AM
Sports This Weekend
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 16, 2026
Ottawa 67’s face arch-rivals Gatineau Olympiques in Battle of the Ottawa River
Tonight: Ottawa 67’s vs Gatineau Olympiques
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Location: TD Place Arena, 1015 Bank St.
- The “Battle of the Ottawa River” OHL matchup is one of the most anticipated rivalry games of the season. Tickets available via SeatGeek.
Saturday: Ottawa Senators vs Montreal Canadiens
- Time: 4:00 PM
- Location: Canadian Tire Centre, Kanata
- Tickets: From $99
- The arch-rivalry NHL game you don’t want to miss. Parking $13 (CAA members save).
Saturday: Ottawa 67’s at Gatineau
- Time: 4:00 PM
- Location: Slush Puppie Centre, Gatineau
- The rematch continues across the river.
Sunday: Ottawa 67’s vs Peterborough Petes
- Time: 3:00 PM
- Location: TD Place Arena
Looking for events at Lansdowne Park? TD Place hosts both the 67’s and various concerts throughout the year.
Museums & Attractions: What’s Open Today
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 16, 2026
Science and Technology Museum offers hands-on winter exhibits
Check our free museum hours guide for admission deals at Ottawa museums.
Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Location: 1867 St. Laurent Blvd.
- Current exhibits include Winter Wonders (light and texture displays) and Tracks and Trains: Railroads in Miniature
Canadian Museum of Nature
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Thursdays until 8 PM, free after 5 PM)
- Location: 240 McLeod St.
- Exhibits: Butterflies in Flight (until March 2026), Qikiqtait (Inuit knowledge until 2027), Dinosaurs of Antarctica (until March 2026)
Canadian War Museum
- Hours: Standard hours (confirm at warmuseum.ca)
- Location: 1 Vimy Pl.
- Don’t miss Last Voices of the Second World War (ends January 18, 2026)
Canada Aviation and Space Museum
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Location: 11 Aviation Pkwy.
- Features Life in Orbit: International Space Station, Cold War aviation, and Avro Arrow artifacts
Diefenbunker
- Hours: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Tuesday-Sunday in January/February)
- Location: 3929 Carp Rd., Carp
- Cold War bunker tours and Hidden Heroes artist residency (extended to early February)
Skating & Winter Recreation
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 16, 2026
Ice conditions depend on weather—check NCC updates before heading out
Rideau Canal Skateway
- Status: Check NCC website for daily conditions (requires 30 cm ice thickness)
- Cost: Free
- Hours depend on ice conditions. Monitor ncc-ccn.gc.ca for January 16 updates.
City Outdoor Rinks Check out our complete ice skating guide for more rinks across the city.
Skiing Nearby
- Camp Fortune: Machine-groomed pistes with recent snow. 4 of 7 lifts open.
- Calabogie Peaks: 100 cm base (wet snow, machine groomed), 3 of 3 lifts open, 15 of 24 trails open.
- Mont Cascades: 18” base (machine groomed/variable), 2” snowfall in past 7 days.
Dining & Nightlife
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 16, 2026
ByWard Market offers live music and dining despite the cold
ByWard Market Live Music
Heart & Crown (67 Clarence St.) dominates tonight with multiple stages: Sam Stone Duo on the Heart Stage from 9 PM, The County Lads on McGintey’s Stage from 10 PM, and karaoke starting at 10 PM. The Irish Village setup is perfect for pub-hopping between acts.
Speakeasy Tapas Lounge in ByWard Market provides cozy live music evenings paired with international tapas and craft cocktails—ideal for escaping the cold.
Zak’s Diner (14 ByWard Market Square) hosts a drag night starting at 7:30 PM for dinner-and-a-show vibes.
Happy Hour Specials
- Chop Ottawa Hunt Club: Happy hour 2 PM - 6 PM and 9 PM to close (lounge or patio)
- BTP ByWard (21 George St.): All-day Sunday happy hours with potential mid-week extensions For more dining options, see our Ottawa happy hour guide.
Coming Soon: Capital City Bites restaurant week starts January 31—mark your calendars for special prix-fixe menus across the city.
Library Programs & Free Events
January 16-18, 2026
Free programs at Ottawa Public Library branches this weekend
Today at Ottawa Public Library
- Main Branch: English conversation circle, 6:00 PM (ongoing, drop-in)
- Centennial Branch: Study session with snacks, 3:15 PM (ongoing through January 16)
- Ottawa Library (KS): Toddler storytime and play, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Activity Room (no registration)
- Orléans Branch: Chess club (Fridays, open to all levels)
- North Gower Branch: STEAM challenges (Fridays)
Community Events This Weekend
- BON Market: National Arts Centre (1 Elgin St.), January 16 - free community gathering for African/Caribbean women-led businesses
- TACA’s Annual Winter Carnival: January 25 at 50 Bellman Dr., Nepean - horse-drawn sleigh, scavenger hunt, magic show (coming soon)
- Black History Month Celebration: January 25 at Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Blvd. For a preview of all February events, see our complete Black History Month Ottawa guide.
Religious & Cultural Events
- City on our Knees: Prayer events January 18-24 at various churches including Woodvale (Greenbank Corridor, January 19 at 7:00 PM)
- World Religion Day: January 18 promotes interfaith dialogue with potential community gatherings
- Raoul Wallenberg Day: January 17 honours humanitarian efforts
Weather Outlook
As of 8:30 AM ET, January 16, 2026
Environment Canada snowfall warning remains in effect
Today’s Forecast
Ottawa faces bitter cold with a high of -11°C and periods of snow this evening. An orange snowfall warning remains active for Ottawa North, Kanata, and Orléans, with total accumulation of 20-35 cm expected.
- Morning: Clear skies, bitter cold at -19°C (feels like -28°C with wind chill), light west winds at 14 km/h
- Afternoon: Increasing cloudiness, warming slightly to -13°C, gentle southwest breezes
- Evening: Periods of snow beginning, accumulating 2-4 cm additional, temperatures dropping to -17°C (feels like -23°C)
- Overnight Low: -13°C, rising to -8°C by morning, wind chill near -19°C
Weekend Outlook
- Saturday, January 17: Cloudy with 60% chance of flurries, high -3°C, low -7°C
- Sunday, January 18: Mix of sun and cloud with 40% chance of flurries, high -4°C, low -12°C
Monitor Environment Canada for updated warnings and advisories.
What To Do Now (Weather)
Exposed skin can freeze in minutes at -28°C wind chill—cover up completely if heading outside. The 20-35 cm of snow has made roads treacherous; city crews are still clearing priority routes. If you must drive, allow 30+ extra minutes and keep an emergency kit in your car. The parking ban runs 7 PM to 7 AM tonight.
Weekend Events at a Glance
Thursday, January 16:
- Michael Bublé @ Canadian Tire Centre, 8:00 PM (from $26)
- Ottawa 67’s vs Gatineau Olympiques @ TD Place, 7:00 PM
- Copperbelt + BON Market @ NAC, 6:00 PM (FREE market)
- Candlelight Jazz: MF DOOM @ Gladstone Theatre (ticketed)
- Joke Signals Comedy @ Laugh Lounge, 8:30 PM
- Drag Me To 2026! @ LIVE! on Elgin, 8:00 PM
Friday, January 17:
- Ottawa Senators vs Montreal Canadiens @ Canadian Tire Centre, 4:00 PM (from $99)
- Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers in Concert @ TD Place, 7:00 PM
- Ottawa 67’s @ Gatineau, 4:00 PM
- The Band / Radiohead Tribute @ GCTC
- Joke Signals Comedy @ Laugh Lounge, 8:30 PM
Saturday, January 18:
- Ottawa 67’s vs Peterborough Petes @ TD Place, 3:00 PM
- Pros n Joes Comedy @ Laugh Lounge, 8:00 PM
- World Religion Day community gatherings
All Weekend:
- Museums open (except National Gallery closed through Jan 16)
- Ski resorts: Camp Fortune, Calabogie, Mont Cascades
- Rideau Canal Skateway (check ice conditions at NCC website)
- ByWard Market dining and nightlife
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a winter parking ban in Ottawa today?
Yes, the City of Ottawa has activated a winter parking ban from 7 PM to 7 AM to facilitate snow removal after the 20-35 cm snowfall. Vehicles left on the street during this time will be ticketed and may be towed. Move your car to a driveway, garage, or lot before 7 PM.
Q: How much snow did Ottawa get in the January 15-16 storm?
Environment Canada reports 20-35 cm of snow across the Ottawa region, making this the most significant storm of the winter season so far. An orange-level snowfall warning remains in effect, with additional accumulation of 2-4 cm expected this evening.
Q: Is OC Transpo running normally today?
No, multiple bus routes face detours and missed stops due to snow and road conditions. Routes 17, 25, 33, 117, and 10 are particularly affected. O-Train Lines 1, 2, and 4 operate normally. Check octranspo.com for real-time updates and allow extra travel time.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open today?
The Rideau Canal Skateway’s hours depend on daily ice conditions, which require 30 cm of ice thickness. Check the NCC website at ncc-ccn.gc.ca for January 16 updates. Skating is free when the canal is open.
Q: Is Michael Bublé performing in Ottawa tonight?
Yes, Michael Bublé performs at Canadian Tire Centre at 8:00 PM on January 16, 2026. The concert celebrates CTC’s 30th anniversary. Tickets start from $26 and are available through various ticket vendors. Arrive early for anniversary celebrations.
Q: What is the Ottawa 67’s game tonight?
The Ottawa 67’s host the Gatineau Olympiques at TD Place Arena at 7:00 PM in the “Battle of the Ottawa River” OHL rivalry matchup. Tickets are available via SeatGeek.
Q: When is the Ottawa Senators vs Canadiens game?
The Senators host the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday, January 17 at 4:00 PM at Canadian Tire Centre. Tickets start from $99. Parking costs $13, with savings for CAA members.
Q: Is the National Gallery of Canada open today?
No, the National Gallery of Canada is closed for annual maintenance from January 13-16, 2026. It reopens Friday, January 17. Other museums including the Science and Technology Museum, Museum of Nature, and War Museum are open.
Q: What are the Express Entry CRS scores for January 2026?
IRCC issued 8,000 Invitations to Apply in the first Express Entry draw of 2026 on January 7, with a minimum CRS score of 511 for Canadian Experience Class candidates. An additional 110,000 economic-class spots were released January 6 to address labour shortages.
Q: What new Ontario employment laws took effect in 2026?
From January 1, 2026, Ontario employers with 25 or more employees must disclose compensation in job postings. They also cannot require “Canadian experience” in most cases and must use AI disclosure when applicable.
Q: Are there free flu vaccines available in Ottawa?
Yes, free flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available for ages 6 months and up at pharmacies, healthcare providers, and Ottawa Public Health clinics. Book via ottawapublichealth.ca or call 1-833-943-3900. RSV vaccines are available for adults 75+.
Q: What are the current hospital wait times in Ottawa?
Hospital wait times at The Ottawa Hospital, Queensway Carleton Hospital, and CHEO remain elevated above provincial averages. Recent reports show occupancy at 114% with medicine units at 133%. Respiratory illnesses continue to strain capacity. For non-emergencies, consider walk-in clinics.
Q: How do I report a scam to Ottawa Police?
Contact Ottawa Police Fraud Section at 613-236-1222 ext. 5292 for local incidents. You can also report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or online at antifraudcentre.ca.
Q: What are the gas prices in Ottawa today?
Regular gas is approximately $1.31/L and diesel is around $1.47/L as of January 15-16, 2026. The federal consumer carbon price on fuels was cancelled, reducing prices by roughly 18 cents per litre.
Q: When does Winterlude 2026 start?
Winterlude 2026 runs January 30 to February 16, 2026. The festival features ice sculptures, snow tubing, and free outdoor activities across Ottawa and Gatineau.
Final Summary
Ottawa on January 16, 2026, presents a tale of two cities: severe winter weather demanding caution alongside vibrant entertainment options for those willing to brave the cold. The 20-35 cm of snow has triggered a parking ban and transit disruptions, so plan ahead if you’re heading out tonight.
For entertainment seekers, Michael Bublé’s milestone concert at Canadian Tire Centre headlines the evening, while hockey fans can catch the Ottawa 67’s rivalry battle against Gatineau at TD Place. Museums remain open (except the National Gallery through today), and ByWard Market offers warm refuge with live music and happy hour specials.
On the policy front, new recycling collection under Miller Waste Services, the IRCC immigration quota increase, and Ontario’s job posting transparency rules mark significant changes for 2026. Federal public service layoffs continue to affect Ottawa workers, while police announced a breakthrough in a violent crime investigation spanning three years.
Stay warm, move your car before 7 PM, and check OC Transpo updates before heading out. Tomorrow brings the Senators vs Canadiens at CTC and milder temperatures with a high of -3°C. Winterlude kicks off January 30—the countdown has begun.
Sources & References
Sources cited throughout this article:
- Environment Canada Weather - Snowfall warnings and forecasts
- City of Ottawa - Parking bans, snow removal, municipal services
- OC Transpo - Transit service alerts and updates
- Ottawa Police Service - Crime investigation updates
- Ottawa Public Health - Health advisories and vaccination clinics
- National Capital Commission - Rideau Canal Skateway conditions
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre - Scam reporting and prevention
- IRCC - Immigration updates and Express Entry
- Canadian Tire Centre - Concert and Senators game information
- TD Place - Ottawa 67’s games and events
- Circular Materials - Recycling program updates
This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents. For the latest updates, check venue websites and social media. Information accurate as of publication time.
