Ottawa Daily News: January 18, 2026
Last Updated: January 18, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET
A quiet Sunday in the nation’s capital has been punctuated by the sounds of protest as federal public servants rally against looming job cuts, while hockey fans prepare for a busy afternoon of OHL and NHL action.
As Ottawa residents settle into the second half of January, the city is grappling with significant economic and social shifts. The federal government’s “Canada Strong Budget 2025” is no longer just a policy document; it is a reality affecting thousands of local families. Layoff notices have begun circulating in key departments, sparking demonstrations in the downtown core this weekend.
Meanwhile, winter’s grip remains firm but manageable. With temperatures hovering around -5°C and a mix of cloud and flurries, road conditions are stable, though drivers are warned of slick patches on residential side streets. It is a day of contrast: the tension of workforce adjustments clashing with the routine joy of Sunday sports and family outings to local museums.
From the latest updates on the O-Train to detailed weather forecasts and a look at what’s happening in the arts scene, here is your complete, comprehensive guide to everything happening in Ottawa today.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: The biggest story in Ottawa remains the unfolding impact of federal job cuts, with protests taking place downtown. On the lighter side, the Ottawa 67’s are at home hosting Peterborough, while the Senators face the Red Wings in Detroit. Health officials report a peak in respiratory viruses, urging continued caution.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Sunday, January 18, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | High -5°C, Low -13°C. Wind chill -17°C. Cloudy with flurries. |
| 🚗 Traffic | Downtown delays due to protests; Highway 417 construction near Island Park. |
| 🎉 Top Event | Ottawa 67’s vs Peterborough Petes (3:00 PM @ TD Place). |
| 🏒 Sports | Ottawa Senators vs Detroit Red Wings (5:00 PM Away). |
| ⚠️ Advisory | Respiratory virus levels remain high; ER wait times elevated. |
Breaking News & Important Updates
As of 5:00 PM ET, January 18
Major Breaking Developments
Public Servants Rally Against ‘Canada Strong Budget’ Cuts The streets of downtown Ottawa saw increased activity this weekend as federal public servants and their union representatives gathered to protest the government’s workforce reduction plans. The demonstrations are a direct response to the “Canada Strong Budget 2025,” which outlines a strategy to eliminate approximately 28,000 public service positions over the next four years.
This isn’t just a future threat; the impact is being felt now. Reports confirm that layoff notices have already been issued to employees in several major departments, including:
- Statistics Canada: Facing a reduction of 850 positions over two years.
- Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC): Notices were distributed earlier this week.
- Shared Services Canada (SSC): Approximately 737 IT professionals have received notifications.
- Global Affairs Canada: Executive and staff reductions are underway.
Union leaders are warning that these cuts will not only devastate the livelihoods of affected workers but will also have a ripple effect on the Ottawa economy, which relies heavily on the stability of the public sector. They also raise concerns about the potential degradation of public services for all Canadians.
City of Ottawa Return-to-Office Mandate Adding to the shifting landscape of Ottawa’s workforce, city employees have recently transitioned back to a full-time in-office schedule. This mandate, which came into full effect earlier in January, has begun to alter daily traffic patterns and increase ridership on OC Transpo during peak hours. Downtown businesses are cautiously optimistic that the increased foot traffic will provide a much-needed economic boost, though the adjustment period continues to present logistical challenges for workers.
Public Safety
Impaired Driving Crackdown in Ottawa Valley While the city itself has been relatively quiet regarding major emergencies in the last 24 hours, the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP has been aggressive in its enforcement of sobriety laws. Over the past week, officers have laid multiple charges for impaired driving involving both alcohol and drugs.
- Recent Incident: A significant stop on January 15 in Pembroke resulted in drug and cash seizures.
- Ongoing RIDE Programs: Police are maintaining a high visibility presence with RIDE checks at various locations throughout the region.
Post-Storm Cleanup Operations Following the significant snowfall of 21 cm on January 16, city crews have been working around the clock. By today, Sunday, January 18, all major arterial roads and collector streets are clear and bare pavement. However, residential cleanup is still in the finishing stages. Residents in suburban neighbourhoods may notice narrowed streets due to high snowbanks. The city reminds drivers to be patient and to park in driveways where possible to allow plows to complete their work effectively.
What To Do Now (Breaking News)
For Public Servants: If you have received a workforce adjustment letter, contact your union steward immediately to understand your rights and the surplus process. For Commuters: Anticipate potential delays in the downtown core due to demonstrations. If driving in residential areas, slow down—snowbanks can obscure children playing or pedestrians stepping off curbs.
Government & Policy Changes
Financial Impact: Tax Changes Hit Home
As Ottawa residents review their first paycheques and bills of 2026, the reality of new tax policies is setting in.
- Federal Tax Relief: On the positive side, the federal government has adjusted the lowest income tax bracket, reducing the rate from 15% to 14%. For an individual earning up to 8,523, this translates to an annual saving of approximately 90. While modest, it provides some relief against inflation.
- Municipal Tax Hikes: However, these savings may be offset by local increases. The City of Ottawa’s 2026 budget includes a 3.75% property tax increase. For the average homeowner with a property assessed at 15,000, this adds roughly 66 to their annual tax bill.
- Transit Levy: Additionally, the transit levy has jumped by 8%, a necessary measure to fund OC Transpo’s operations and the expanding O-Train network.
Ontario’s Salary Transparency Law
A significant change for the job market took effect on January 1. Ontario’s Salary Transparency Law now requires all employers with 25 or more employees to include salary ranges in their public job postings.
- For Job Seekers: This eliminates the guessing game and empowers you to negotiate fair compensation.
- For Employers: It demands a review of internal compensation structures to ensure equity and competitiveness.
Jobs & Employment
A Cooling Labour Market
The employment landscape in Ottawa is facing headwinds. National data shows the unemployment rate has ticked up to 6.8% as of December 2025. In the capital, the traditional stability of the public sector is no longer a given.
- Sector Shifts: While we are seeing a contraction in professional services and government roles, the healthcare sector continues to hire actively, driven by the demands of an aging population and current health pressures.
Deep Dive: Public Service Downsizing
The federal government’s workforce adjustment is the dominant story in Ottawa’s job market. The cut of 28,000 jobs is not a simple attrition plan; it involves active eliminations.
- Affected Departments: Beyond Statistics Canada and SSC, reports indicate that layoffs will touch nearly every major department.
- Economic Ripple Effect: Economists warn that a reduction of this magnitude will impact downtown businesses, housing markets, and the broader service industry in Ottawa, which caters largely to public servants.
What To Do Now (Employment)
Update Your Resume: If you are in a vulnerable sector, update your CV now. Ensure it highlights transferable skills. Check Salary Ranges: If you are job hunting, use the new transparency laws to your advantage. Compare posted ranges for similar roles to ensure you are being offered a fair market rate.
Immigration & Newcomers
Massive Opportunity: 110,000 New Spots
For newcomers currently in Ottawa on temporary work permits or student visas, 2026 brings renewed hope. IRCC has announced a significant expansion of the economic immigration stream, adding 110,000 new permanent residency spots.
- Target Audience: The focus is explicitly on individuals already in Canada. This strategy aims to transition temporary residents to permanent status, thereby clearing backlogs without adding immediate pressure to the housing market.
- Impact: This is expected to lower the CRS score cut-offs in upcoming Express Entry draws, making it easier for those with Canadian work experience to qualify.
Breaking Down Barriers: ‘Canadian Experience’ Ban
Ontario’s ban on the “Canadian experience” requirement is a game-changer for foreign-trained professionals.
- What It Means: Regulatory bodies and employers can no longer automatically disqualify candidates for lacking local work history.
- Professions Benefiting: This is particularly relevant for engineers, architects, accountants, and IT professionals who often faced this catch-22 barrier.
Health & Wellness
Urgent Advisory: Respiratory Virus Peak
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is sounding the alarm as we hit the peak of the respiratory virus season.
- Influenza Activity: The flu is currently the dominant threat, with a test positivity rate of 13.9%.
- Vulnerable Groups: Children aged 1 to 11 are being hit hardest. The recent report of three child deaths in the region linked to influenza is a stark reminder of the virus’s potential severity.
- Hospital Status: Emergency departments at The Ottawa Hospital (Civic and General) and CHEO are operating at high capacity. Patients with non-life-threatening conditions should expect significantly longer wait times.
Mental Health Resources
The post-holiday period, combined with “Blue Monday” approaching, often sees a spike in mental health challenges.
- Support Available: If you or someone you know is struggling, the CMHA Ottawa offers 24/7 support. The national suicide prevention line 9-8-8 is available via text or call.
What To Do Now (Health)
Don’t Wait on Symptoms: If your child has a fever that won’t break, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration, seek medical attention immediately. Do not let wait times deter you in an emergency. Get Vaccinated: It is not too late to get your flu shot. Pharmacies across Ottawa still have ample supply. Mask Up: Consider wearing a high-quality mask (N95/KN95) in crowded indoor spaces like malls or transit to break the chain of transmission.
Scams & Fraud Alerts ⚠️
Red Alert: Tax Season Scams Targeting Ottawa
As we approach tax season, the Ottawa Police Service has noted a resurgence in CRA impersonation scams. These are not just robocalls anymore; scammers are using spoofed numbers that appear to be from legitimate government offices.
- The Tactic: They claim you owe back taxes and threaten immediate arrest or deportation unless payment is made instantly.
- The Red Flag: They demand payment via cryptocurrency (Bitcoin ATMs), prepaid gift cards (iTunes, Google Play), or e-transfer. The CRA will NEVER ask for payment through these channels.
Online Marketplace Warning
A specific warning has been issued for users of Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji.
- The Scam: A “buyer” agrees to your price but claims they can’t meet in person immediately. They offer to send an e-transfer to hold the item.
- The Trap: You receive an email that looks like an Interac notification, but the link takes you to a fake banking login page designed to steal your credentials.
- Safety Tip: Turn on Auto-Deposit for e-transfers. This way, money goes straight into your account without needing to click a link or answer a security question, effectively neutralizing this phishing tactic.
Transit & Getting Around
Winter Service Adjustments
If you are a regular OC Transpo rider, be aware of the January service changes that are now fully operational.
- Route 26 Improvement: To better serve the St. Laurent commercial district, four new weekday trips have been added from Blair Station at 9:45 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:45 AM, and 12:50 PM.
- Route 86 Optimization: Peak period trips are now alternating between Colonnade Road and Antares Drive every 30 minutes to better serve the business parks.
- Route 105 Early Birds: New early morning northbound trips now depart from Limebank Station at 5:00 AM and 5:28 AM, providing better connections for shift workers.
Construction Delays
Drivers should plan for extra travel time on the Highway 417 eastbound. Ongoing bridge replacement work near Island Park Drive and Kent Street has reduced the highway to three lanes. This bottleneck is causing significant backups during the evening rush hour and on weekends.
What To Do Now (Transit)
Download the Transit App: Real-time tracking is essential in winter weather. Check Your Balance: With the recent fare hike to 38.50 for a monthly pass, ensure your Presto card is topped up to avoid boarding delays.
Live Music Tonight: Where to Catch a Show
As of 5:00 PM ET, January 18
Image: Live music venue atmosphere in Ottawa
Overflow Brewing Company
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Artist: Steve Adamyk Band
- Genre: Punk / Power Pop
- Why Go: A staple of the Ottawa music scene, Steve Adamyk delivers high-energy performances that are perfect for shaking off the winter blues. Overflow’s spacious venue allows for a great view from anywhere.
- Tickets: Available at the door or online.
Morning Owl (Manotick)
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Artist: Class of 91
- Vibe: Acoustic / Intimate
- Why Go: If you’re in the south end, this is a perfect Sunday evening outing. Expect stripped-back covers of 90s hits in a warm, coffee-shop atmosphere. Ideal for a low-key date night.
Theatre & Shows Coming This Month
National Arts Centre (NAC) - Babs Asper Theatre
- Show: Copperbelt (World Premiere)
- Dates: Running through January 25
- Tickets: Starting from 0
- The Story: Set against the backdrop of the Zambian mining belt, this powerful new drama explores themes of extraction—both of minerals and of human spirit. It’s a critical look at the cost of progress and the bonds of community.
- Review Buzz: Early audiences have praised the set design and the raw emotional intensity of the performances.
Ottawa Little Theatre
- Upcoming: Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Jersey Lily
- Dates: Opening soon
- Note: Tickets are selling fast for this community theatre favourite. It’s a lighter, comedic take on the classic detective genre.
Sports This Weekend
As of 5:00 PM ET, January 18
Image: Hockey action on the ice
Ottawa Senators vs Detroit Red Wings
- Date: Today, January 18
- Time: 5:00 PM ET
- Location: Little Caesars Arena (Detroit)
- Watch: TSN 5 / RDS
- The Matchup: The Senators are looking to bounce back on the road. Key player to watch is Brady Tkachuk, whose physical presence will be needed against a tough Red Wings squad. This is a crucial divisional game as the Sens fight for a Wild Card spot.
Ottawa 67’s vs Peterborough Petes
- Date: Today, January 18
- Time: 3:00 PM ET
- Location: TD Place Arena (Lansdowne Park)
- Why Watch: Junior hockey offers some of the best entertainment value in the city. The 67’s have been strong at home, and a Sunday matinee is perfect for young families.
- Tickets: Still available at the box office or online.
Museums & Attractions: What’s Open Today
Image: Interactive exhibit at the Science and Tech Museum
Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Feature Exhibit: Winter Wonders Luminorama
- Details: This seasonal exhibit transforms the museum grounds into a glowing landscape of light and sound. It’s interactive and designed to get kids moving. Dress warmly as parts of it are outdoors!
- Location: 1867 St. Laurent Blvd
Canadian Museum of Nature
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
- Must-See: The Arctic Gallery. Given the cold weather outside, it’s fitting to learn about the ecosystems that thrive in it. The gallery features real ice sculptures and immersive storytelling about the North.
- Location: 240 McLeod St
Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum
- Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Experience: Step back in time into this massive underground bunker. Guided tours are available and offer a chilling glimpse into Canada’s history of civil defence.
- Location: 3929 Carp Rd (Carp)
Skating & Winter Recreation
As of 5:00 PM ET, January 18
Image: Skaters on the Rink of Dreams
Rink of Dreams (City Hall)
- Status: OPEN
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Facilities: Heated changing stations and skate rentals are available on-site.
- Vibe: With the city lights in the background and music playing, it’s a magical spot for an evening skate.
- Cost: Free (Rentals extra).
Rideau Canal Skateway
- Status: CLOSED (Pending Weather)
- Update: Despite the cold temperatures, the canal requires a sustained period of deep freeze to form safe ice. The NCC is monitoring conditions daily. Always look for the Green Flag on the NCC website before venturing out. Do not skate on closed sections—the ice thickness is variable and dangerous.
Local Ski Hills Conditions
- Camp Fortune: Open with good intermediate snowpack. Most runs are groomed. Night skiing is available.
- Mont Cascades: Open. Recent flurries have freshened up the trails.
- Calabogie Peaks: Open. Worth the drive for the vertical drop, currently offering some of the best conditions in the region.
Dining & Nightlife
Image: Warm ambiance inside a ByWard Market restaurant
ByWard Market: Sunday Supper Spots
- Grey’s Social Eatery: Located in the heart of the market, this is a go-to for a relaxed Sunday dinner. Their menu focuses on comfort food with a modern twist.
- Sidedoor: Hidden in a courtyard, Sidedoor offers a unique fusion menu. Their tacos and fresh doughnuts are legendary in Ottawa. A great spot to warm up after a walk through the market.
Late Night Special
- Back to Brooklyn: If you’re looking to extend your evening, this spot offers 50% off select martinis and draught beer after 10 PM. It’s a popular industry hangout with a laid-back New York deli vibe.
Neighbourhood Gem: Manotick
- Black Dog Bistro: If you’re near Manotick for the music at Morning Owl, check out the Black Dog for dinner. It’s consistently rated as one of the best bistros in the Ottawa Valley, known for its steak frites and extensive beer list.
Library Programs & Free Events
Image: Quiet reading nook at the Ottawa Public Library
Sunday, January 18: Family Focus The Ottawa Public Library (OPL) is a fantastic resource for free family entertainment, especially on cold winter weekends.
- Nepean Centrepointe Branch: Family Storytime kicks off at 10:30 AM. This is a drop-in program featuring stories, rhymes, and songs designed to promote early literacy. It’s suitable for children of all ages and their caregivers.
- Main Branch (Metcalfe): Open Play starts at 10:30 AM in the children’s department. It’s a great way for kids to socialize and explore educational toys in a warm environment.
- Ruth E. Dickinson Branch (Barrhaven): For older kids and adults, join the Drop-in Board Games and Cards session at 1:30 PM. Bring a friend or meet new neighbours over a game of Catan or Cribbage.
Community Note: Most OPL branches are open on Sundays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, but the hubs listed above often have morning programming. Check the OPL website for branch-specific hours.
Weather Outlook
As of 5:00 PM ET
Image: Snow covered street in Ottawa’s Glebe neighbourhood
Current Status: Ottawa is currently under a blanket of clouds with intermittent flurries. The temperature is sitting at -5°C, but the wind chill is making it feel significantly colder, around -17°C.
Detailed Forecast:
- Tonight: The chance of flurries continues into the evening, with a total accumulation of less than 1 cm expected. Winds will remain steady from the southwest at 15 km/h. The temperature will drop to a low of -13°C overnight.
- Tomorrow (Monday): Expect a mix of sun and cloud to start the work week. Highs will remain below freezing, consistent with seasonal averages.
Driving Conditions: While major roads are clear, black ice is a real danger tonight, particularly on highway on-ramps and untreated residential streets. The combination of wind and low temperatures can freeze moisture on the road surface rapidly.
What To Do Now (Weather)
Bundle Up: If you are heading to the Sens game watch party or a concert, dress in layers. Exposed skin can suffer frostnip in under 30 minutes at these wind chill values. Vehicle Prep: Ensure your windshield washer fluid is topped up with a -40°C rated solution. The salt spray on the 417 can blind you quickly if your reservoir runs dry.
Weekend Events at a Glance
Sunday, January 18:
- Hockey: Ottawa 67’s vs Peterborough Petes @ TD Place, 3:00 PM (Tickets from 5).
- Music: Steve Adamyk Band @ Overflow Brewing, 7:00 PM (0).
- Music: Class of 91 @ Morning Owl Manotick, 6:00 PM (Free/Cover).
- Museum: Winter Wonders Luminorama @ Science & Tech Museum, until 5:00 PM (Included with admission).
All Weekend:
- Exhibit: Copperbelt @ National Arts Centre (Various times).
- Exhibit: Arctic Gallery @ Canadian Museum of Nature (9:30 AM - 4:00 PM).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there any road closures downtown today? While there are no official full road closures for construction today, drivers should expect sporadic delays and congestion near Parliament Hill and Wellington Street due to the ongoing public service protests. If you don’t need to drive in the core, taking the O-Train Line 1 is recommended.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open yet? No, the Skateway remains CLOSED. The National Capital Commission (NCC) requires a sustained period of temperatures between -10°C and -20°C to thicken the ice safely. With the current fluctuations, it is not yet safe for skaters. Always check the NCC website for the daily flag status.
Q: Where can I get a flu shot on a Sunday? Most major pharmacies in Ottawa, including Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall, offer flu shots on weekends. It is best to call ahead or check their online booking portal, as walk-in availability can vary based on staffing.
Q: What are the rules for the new salary transparency law? As of January 1, 2026, any Ontario employer with 25 or more employees must include the expected salary range in their job postings. If you see a posting that says “competitive salary” without numbers, and the company is large enough, they may be non-compliant. You can report this to the Ministry of Labour.
Q: Is there an overnight parking ban tonight? No overnight winter parking ban has been declared for tonight, January 18. However, winter parking regulations are always subject to change based on weather. Sign up for City of Ottawa e-alerts to get notified instantly if a ban is called.
Q: How do I report a suspicious CRA call? If you receive a call threatening arrest for unpaid taxes, hang up immediately. Do not press any buttons. You can report the number to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or via their online reporting tool.
Final Summary
As Sunday winds down, Ottawa finds itself in a period of transition. The energy on the streets—from the chanting of protesters to the cheers of hockey fans—reflects a city that is active and engaged. While the economic news regarding public service cuts casts a shadow, the resilience of the community is evident in the busy museums, the local music venues, and the steadfast preparations for the week ahead.
Weather-wise, winter is holding steady. It’s cold, but typical for January. As we move into the work week, keep an eye on road conditions and dress warmly. Whether you’re navigating the new return-to-office reality or hunting for that next job opportunity, staying informed is your best strategy.
Looking Ahead: What to Watch For This Week
As we close out the weekend, all eyes turn to the upcoming week in the capital. The public service protests are expected to continue, with union leaders hinting at further actions if dialogue with the Treasury Board does not resume. This could impact downtown commute times on Monday morning, so plan accordingly.
On the weather front, meteorologists are tracking a potential system moving in midweek that could bring mixed precipitation. While it’s too early for a definitive warning, it serves as a reminder that Ottawa’s winter is far from over. Keep your snow brushes handy and your windshield fluid topped up.
Culturally, this week marks the final days for several smaller gallery exhibits before the spring rotation begins. If you have been putting off a visit to the local art spaces in the Glebe or Westboro, now is the time to go.
And for hockey fans, the Senators’ road trip continues. Their performance this week will be critical in determining their stance as the trade deadline approaches. Will they be buyers or sellers? The next few games against divisional rivals will likely dictate the answer.
Sticking together and staying informed is how Ottawa thrives. Whether you are navigating job changes, winter roads, or just looking for the best spot to skate, we will be here with the daily updates you need.
Sources & References
- Weather: Environment Canada
- City Services: City of Ottawa
- Transit Updates: OC Transpo
- Public Safety: Ottawa Police Service & Upper Ottawa Valley OPP
- Health Advisory: Ottawa Public Health
- Canal Status: National Capital Commission
- Immigration News: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
- Employment Data: Statistics Canada
This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents. For the latest updates, check venue websites and social media.
