Ottawa Daily News: January 22, 2026
Last Updated: January 22, 2026 at 7:30 AM ET
Federal workers across Ottawa are receiving layoff notices this week as Statistics Canada announces 850 job cuts over two years, part of broader public service reductions targeting 40,000 positions by 2028-29. Meanwhile, the coldest air of the season arrives with wind chills plunging to -29°C this weekend.
Ottawa residents face a turbulent week as federal job cuts accelerate and Arctic air sweeps into the region. Statistics Canada issued approximately 100 surplus notices immediately as part of plans to eliminate 850 positions over two years. The cuts hit Ottawa’s core employment sector hard, with thousands receiving potential layoff warnings across multiple departments. On the weather front, Wednesday’s high of -3°C gives way to brutal cold by Friday, with overnight lows dropping to -29°C and dangerous wind chills throughout the weekend. Despite the challenges, Ottawa’s cultural scene remains vibrant with NAC concerts, Senators hockey, and free community events scheduled across the city.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Statistics Canada announces 850 job cuts with 100 immediate notices. Arctic blast brings wind chills to -29°C this weekend. NAC hosts Shelley tribute concert tonight. Senators play in Nashville, home games Friday and Saturday.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | January 22, 2026 |
| 🌡️ Weather | High -3°C, overnight low -13°C, flurries and gusty winds |
| 🚗 Traffic | Snowy roads with reduced visibility, allow extra time |
| 🎉 Top Event | Shelley, Beethoven & Korngold Concert at NAC, 7 PM |
| 🏒 Sports | Senators @ Predators 8 PM ET (away), home games Fri-Sat |
Breaking News & Important Updates
As of 7:30 AM ET, January 22, 2026
Image: Federal public service workers facing job cuts as part of Budget 2025 reductions
Major Breaking Developments
Statistics Canada Announces 850 Job Cuts Over Two Years
Statistics Canada confirmed plans to eliminate 850 positions over the next two years, with approximately 100 surplus notices issued immediately this week. The cuts form part of broader federal workforce reductions targeting 40,000 positions by 2028-29, down from a 2023-24 peak of 368,000 roles. Around 10,000 positions have already been cut nationally since the reductions began.
Federal workers across Ottawa received notices of potential job cuts in recent weeks, triggering workforce adjustment processes that offer redeployment or transition support. The layoff notices do not guarantee immediate job loss but signal significant staffing impacts ahead. Public service protests have continued near Parliament Hill as affected employees voice concerns about the scale and pace of reductions.
Prime Minister Attends World Economic Forum Meeting
A media advisory noted Prime Minister attending the World Economic Forum’s Investors Industry Governors Meeting on January 21, 2026. The session was closed to media with no public announcements or policy outcomes reported from the gathering.
Public Safety
No Active Emergency Incidents Reported
Ottawa Police and emergency services report no major active incidents from the last 24 hours. No developing police investigations, missing persons cases, fire incidents, or emergency responses were confirmed for January 21-22, 2026.
Older reports from earlier in January mentioned impaired driving charges in the Ottawa Valley (January 11-15) and federal worker protests over layoffs (January 16-17), but these fall outside the 24-hour reporting window.
Safety Advisory
No active weather warnings, power outages, major accidents, or emergency alerts specific to Ottawa are in effect as of 7:30 AM ET on January 22. However, winter weather advisories note the coldest air of the season arriving this weekend with very low wind chills persisting through Saturday and Sunday.
What To Do Now
Monitor for potential winter weather warnings as Arctic air moves in. Wind chills reaching -29°C by Saturday night pose serious cold exposure risks. Prepare emergency kits with flashlights and batteries, charge devices, and check on vulnerable neighbours as extreme cold conditions develop.
Government & Policy Changes
As of 7:30 AM ET
Image: City of Ottawa implements 2026 budget with 3.75% property tax increase
Provincial Laws Now in Effect
Ontario implemented several new regulations at the start of 2026 that continue to affect Ottawa residents. Expanded carbon monoxide alarm requirements now mandate alarms on every level of homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages—alarms must be placed near sleeping areas.
Employers with over 25 staff must now disclose expected salaries in job postings, reveal AI use in hiring processes, and notify applicants of decisions within 45 days while keeping records for three years. Stricter impaired driving penalties include indefinite licence suspensions for causing death, plus multi-year bans for vehicle theft or stunt driving.
Federal Tax Changes Impact Wallets
The federal lowest income tax bracket dropped from 15% to 14%, saving average earners approximately $190 annually. However, payroll taxes rose and the industrial carbon tax increased to $110 per tonne, potentially raising business costs that could be passed to consumers. The consumer carbon tax eliminated in 2025 reduced gasoline prices by 17.6 cents per litre, but alcohol taxes will rise 2% automatically on April 1, 2026.
City Budget Impacts Ottawa Homeowners
The approved 2026 budget includes a 3.75% property tax hike, adding $166 to the average home’s bill (valued around $415,000), plus $36 more for policing and $74 for OC Transpo. Transit fares rose 2.5-8%, and urban homeowners face up to $237 extra in total taxes. Parking rates increased 2.5% on January 1.
Jobs & Employment
As of 7:30 AM ET
Image: Ottawa job seekers attending career fairs amid federal public service reductions
Job Fairs Offer Opportunities This Week
Several career events target Ottawa job seekers on January 22 and nearby dates. CERC Ottawa hosts a Better Jobs Ontario info session today for retraining eligibility. YM Ottawa Police recruiting prep, YSB Local 2041 sessions, and a Career Fair by Ashrae OVC and CMAS took place yesterday (January 21).
Upcoming events include VON Online Job Fair (January 23), Uline Sales Hiring (January 23), and Commissionaires In-Person Fair (January 24). Check cercottawa.ca or local community boards for links and details like age eligibility (17-29 for some positions).
National Employment Trends
National job growth was modest at 8,200 positions in December 2025, with unemployment holding at 6.8%. No major private sector hiring announcements, tech expansions, or employment insurance updates specific to Ottawa emerged on this date.
Immigration & Newcomers
As of 7:30 AM ET
Image: Newcomers accessing settlement services at YMCA Newcomer Information Centre in Ottawa
IRCC Releases 110,000 Additional Immigration Spots
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada announced a one-time release of 110,000 additional economic-class immigration spots effective January 6, 2026, prioritizing in-Canada workers on permits and those with job offers to address labour shortages. Canada plans to admit 380,000 permanent residents in 2026, a reduction from 395,000 in 2025, with increased focus on French-speaking newcomers outside Quebec.
Recent Express Entry draws benefit candidates with lower CRS scores due to the extra spots, though normal competitive rounds will resume once filled. Applicants with arranged employment or Labour Market Impact Assessments receive priority processing.
Settlement Services Available
YMCA Newcomer Information Centre in Ottawa offers free guidance on immigration, housing, employment, healthcare, and referrals. They host workshops like “Assurance-Emploi” today (January 22, 2026) from 10:00-11:30 AM, ideal for job and settlement support. For complete newcomer resources, see our Ottawa newcomer settlement guide.
Access LINC/ESL classes through settlement agencies like YMCA, which provide language assessments and training referrals. Newcomer job programs include employment info sessions and specialized events.
Health & Wellness
As of 7:30 AM ET
Image: Ottawa hospitals experiencing elevated wait times due to respiratory illness season
Hospital Wait Times Remain Elevated
Hospital wait times and emergency room status in Ottawa remain elevated due to ongoing respiratory illnesses, with recent provincial data indicating moderate to high activity levels straining emergency departments. Check real-time status via the Ontario Health Ministry’s ED wait times dashboard or by calling The Ottawa Hospital (613-722-7000) or CHEO (613-737-7600).
Flu and Respiratory Illness Update
Influenza activity is declining nationally but remains moderate in Ontario at 13.9% positivity for the week of January 4-10, with H3N2 predominant and highest rates in children aged 1-11. COVID-19 positivity is low at around 5-6%, while RSV is increasing slowly. Ottawa Public Health urges vaccination for all over six months amid three recent paediatric flu deaths locally.
Vaccination clinics operate through pharmacies, family doctors, and public health sites. Call Ontario’s vaccination line at 1-888-999-6488 (Monday-Friday 8:30 AM-5:00 PM ET) for locations and bookings.
Mental Health Resources
Ottawa Crisis Line: 613-722-6914 (24/7) CMHA Ottawa: 613-722-4001 Provincial 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline Mental Health Urgent Care Clinic: 613-722-4000
Walk-in clinic availability varies. Check ontario.ca/healthcareoptions or call Telehealth Ontario at 811 for real-time listings, as demand is high from respiratory season.
Scams & Fraud Alerts
As of 7:30 AM ET
Image: Ottawa Police and Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre warn of AI-enhanced phone and online scams
Ottawa residents face ongoing risks from various scams including phone, email, and online frauds highlighted by Ottawa Police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC). AI-enhanced tactics make these scams harder to spot, with e-transfer losses up 26% in 2024.
Phone Scams to Watch For
CRA impersonators demand urgent payments via gift cards or e-transfers, often threatening arrest. Tech support scams use pop-ups or calls claiming device hacks, seeking remote access or fees. Grandparent scams involve fake urgent calls from “grandchildren” needing bail or medical funds, now using AI voices for alarming realism. For a complete overview of fraud tactics, see our guide to common scams in Ottawa.
Red flags include unsolicited calls demanding instant payment, aggressive threats, or requests for unusual payment methods like crypto or gift cards. If targeted, hang up immediately, verify independently via official CRA or police websites, and report to Ottawa Police (613-236-1222) and CAFC (1-888-495-8501).
Online Marketplace Fraud
Scammers on Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace rush deals, send fake e-transfer confirmations, or request deposits for fake rentals or items. Ottawa cases include counterfeit goods or non-delivery after payment. Learn more about protecting yourself when buying and selling in our online marketplace scam guide.
Watch for buyers too eager without questions, third-party payment links, or overpayments needing refunds. Use secure platform payments, meet in public locations (consider police station parking lots), and report suspicious activity to the platform and Ottawa Police. Reverse suspicious e-transfers immediately through your bank.
How to Protect Yourself
Never click links in unexpected emails claiming refunds or package delivery issues. Hover over links to check suspicious URLs. Monitor credit reports through Equifax or TransUnion if you suspect identity theft. Freeze accounts if compromised and report all scams to CAFC even if you weren’t victimised—reports help track patterns.
Check ottawapolice.ca and antifraudcentre.ca for January 2026 updates on active scam campaigns.
Transit & Getting Around
As of 7:30 AM ET
Image: OC Transpo winter service adjustments in effect with O-Train Line 1 operating reduced train availability
O-Train Line 1 Operating With Reduced Trains
O-Train Line 1 is operating with reduced train availability, using a mix of single- and double-car trains due to identified issues as of January 21. Some riders may need to wait for a second train, though scheduled frequency remains unchanged. Monitor for potential delays during peak hours. For complete transit information, see our OC Transpo guide and O-Train LRT guide.
Off-peak weekday frequency increases are planned for 2026, with an extended afternoon transfer window (3-6 PM) to 105 minutes starting Canada Day, temporary until Line 2 expansions.
Winter Bus Service Changes
Winter 2026 service changes effective from December 21, 2025, remain active on January 22:
Route 26 gained four weekday trips from Blair Station at approximately 9:45 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:45 AM, and 12:50 PM. Route 86 peak trips now alternate to Colonnade Road every 30 minutes, reducing Antares Drive service from every 15 minutes. Route 105 added two early northbound weekday trips from Limebank Station at 5:00 AM and 5:28 AM, extending from Uplands. Route 45 evening service improved to every 15 minutes for hospital connections.
Road Conditions
Snowy and icy roads likely from ongoing flurries and accumulation. Allow extra commute time as gusts up to 45 km/h reduce visibility. Road reconstruction causes ongoing delays and detours on affected routes. Check 511on.ca for real-time conditions. For winter driving tips, see our Ottawa winter driving and parking ban guide.
Use OC Transpo apps, text 560560, or visit octranspo.com for live transit alerts.
Live Music Tonight: Where to Catch a Show
As of 7:30 AM ET, January 22, 2026
Image: Ottawa’s vibrant live music scene continues with multiple venues hosting performances tonight
Austin Camp at Avant-Garde Bar
- Time: Evening (specific time not listed)
- Genre: Folk music
- Price: Check venue for details
Irene’s Thursday Blues Sessions
- Venue: Irene’s Pub
- Time: 8:00 PM
- Featuring: Guest Host Leslie Rohenczy
- Price: Not listed (typically cover or donation)
Thursday Night Live at The Laff
- Venue: The Laff (Château Lafayette)
- Time: 9:00 PM to 11:59 PM
- Featuring: Jason Colson Duo
- Price: Check venue
The Getdown at Rabbit Hole
- Time: 10:00 PM (extends to January 23)
- Type: DJ/club event
- Tickets: Available via Eventbrite
Theatre & Shows Coming This Weekend
January 23-26, 2026
Image: National Arts Centre hosts classical concerts and cultural performances
Shelley, Beethoven & Korngold Concert
- Venue: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St.
- When: Tonight (January 22) at 7:00 PM
- Featuring: Violinist Simone Lamsma honors conductor Alexander Shelley with Korngold’s Violin Concerto and Beethoven’s “Eroica”
- Tickets: From CAD $50 at nac-cna.ca
Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers In Concert (Encore Screening)
- Venue: TD Place Arena, 1015 Bank St.
- When: Tonight (January 22) at 8:00 PM
- Featuring: FILMharmonique Orchestra with 250+ musicians performing film score live
- Tickets: From CAD $60+ at tdplace.com
Zeiss After Dark (NAC Exhibit)
- Venue: National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin St.
- When: Tonight (January 22), 6:00-10:00 PM
- Details: Interactive night exhibit tied to Shelley tribute
- Admission: Free with NAC pass at nac-cna.ca
Check ottawatourism.ca or NAC/GCTC websites for additional weekend theatre performances.
Sports This Weekend
As of 7:30 AM ET, January 22, 2026
Image: Ottawa Senators return to Canadian Tire Centre this weekend after tonight’s road game in Nashville
Ottawa Senators at Nashville Predators (Tonight)
- Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026
- Time: 8:00 PM ET
- Location: Bridgestone Arena, Nashville (Away Game)
- Broadcast: TSN, RDS
- Tickets: From $10 USD via SeatGeek
Ottawa Senators vs Carolina Hurricanes
- Date: Friday, January 24, 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- Location: Canadian Tire Centre, 1000 Palladium Dr, Kanata
- Tickets: From $23 at canadiantirecentre.com
Ottawa Senators vs Vegas Golden Knights
- Date: Saturday, January 25, 2026
- Time: 5:00 PM ET
- Location: Canadian Tire Centre, Kanata
- Tickets: From $21 at canadiantirecentre.com
Ottawa 67’s OHL No confirmed Ottawa 67’s games scheduled for January 22-25. The 2025-26 OHL season continues with regular games at TD Place Arena. Check chl.ca for upcoming schedule.
University Sports Carleton Ravens and Ottawa Gee-Gees basketball and hockey schedules not confirmed for this weekend. Check team websites for updates on games at Ravens’ Nest or Minto Sports Complex.
Museums & Attractions: What’s Open Today
As of 7:30 AM ET, January 22, 2026
Image: Canadian Museum of Nature offers free admission Thursday evenings after 5 PM
Canadian Museum of Nature
- Hours: 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM (Thursday extended hours)
- Location: 240 McLeod St.
- Admission: Free after 5:00 PM on Thursdays; regular admission $20 adults, free for youth under 18
- Current Exhibits: Dinosaurs, Gems & Minerals, live animal displays
- Note: Special exhibits may require additional fees
Canada Science and Technology Museum
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
- Location: 1867 St. Laurent Blvd.
- Admission: $22 adults, free for youth
- Current Exhibits: Innovation galleries, space exploration, hands-on science workshops
Canadian War Museum
- Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Location: 1 Vimy Place
- Admission: $22 adults
- Note: Shuttle to Diefenbunker available seasonally
National Gallery of Canada
- Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Thursday extended)
- Location: 380 Sussex Dr.
- Admission: $16 adults
- Current Exhibits: Canadian and Indigenous art collections
Canadian Aviation and Space Museum
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Location: 11 Aviation Pkwy.
- Admission: $20 adults
- Highlights: Aircraft displays, space exploration exhibits
Skating & Winter Recreation
As of 7:30 AM ET, January 22, 2026
Image: Skating conditions depend on ice quality at Rideau Canal and outdoor city rinks
Rideau Canal Skateway
- Status: Check ottawa.ca/skating for daily updates
- Hours: Typically 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM when open
- Cost: Free
- Rentals: Available at Dow’s Lake Pavilion, approximately $10/hour
- Note: Ice conditions variable due to fluctuating January temperatures
City Outdoor Rinks
- Rink of Dreams (City Hall): Open, free admission
- Neighbourhood rinks: Check ottawa.ca for individual rink status
- Hours: Dawn to dusk, weather permitting
Ski Conditions
Camp Fortune
- Status: Open with mixed trail conditions
- Location: 300 Chemin Dunlop, Chelsea, QC
- Lift Hours: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM weekends
- Day Pass: Approximately $50-80 CAD
- Note: Check campfortune.com for live trail reports
Calabogie Peaks
- Status: Variable early-season snow
- Location: 30 Barrett Chute Rd, Calabogie
- Note: Check resort website for conditions
Mont Cascades
- Status: Variable conditions
- Location: 448 Mont des Cascades, Cantley, QC
Dining & Nightlife
As of 7:30 AM ET, January 22, 2026
Image: ByWard Market restaurants and bars offer happy hour specials and live entertainment
ByWard Market Happy Hours
Sidedoor Contemporary Kitchen & Bar
- Hours: Happy hour typically 5:00-7:00 PM
- Style: Contemporary Asian fusion
- Rating: Highly rated for cocktails and small plates
Grey’s Social Eatery
- Hours: Happy hour specials into evening
- Style: International plates
- Location: ByWard Market area
The Clarendon
- Style: American fare with tapas specials
- Note: Thursday crowd-friendly atmosphere
Elgin Street Options
Dueling Pianos Events Check local venues for performances featuring Jeff Rogers and Mellow Dee, with happy hour specials extending from 9:00 PM.
Back to Brooklyn Cocktail specials and tapas-style menu suitable for Thursday evening dining.
Special Dining
Fairmont Château Laurier - Zoe’s Restaurant Festive afternoon tea atmosphere continues into January with potential evening promotions. Elegant setting near Parliament Hill.
ALORA (ByWard Market) Italian-inspired multi-level dining with specials. Ideal for group outings in the vibrant market area.
Library Programs & Free Events
January 22-26, 2026
Image: Ottawa Public Library branches host free drop-in programs for families and children
Thursday, January 22:
Bilingual Family Storytime
- Location: Rideau Branch
- Time: 10:15 AM
- Details: Stories, rhymes, and songs for children; no registration required
- Follow-up: Stay & Play session after storytime
Greenboro Branch Storytime
- Time: 10:30 AM
- Details: Drop-in family program
Nepean Centrepointe Storytime
- Time: 10:30 AM
- Details: Bilingual program for families
Ottawa Trans Library Youth Group
- Location: Check Ottawa Trans Library website
- Time: 6:00-8:00 PM (typically 4th Thursday)
- Ages: 14-19 years
- Details: Open without registration
English Conversation Circles
- Locations: Beaverbrook, Stittsville branches
- Time: 10:15-10:30 AM (Wednesdays, may extend)
- Details: All levels welcome, no signup required
Weekend Free Events:
Free Museum Evening
- When: Thursday after 5:00 PM
- Where: Canadian Museum of Nature
- Cost: Free general admission
Community Centre Drop-ins Local community centres under City of Ottawa offer free drop-in fitness classes and youth programs throughout the weekend. Check ottawa.ca/recreation for schedules.
Weather Outlook
As of 7:30 AM ET, January 22, 2026
Image: Arctic air arriving this weekend brings the coldest temperatures of the season to Ottawa
Current conditions show light flurries across Ottawa with temperatures near -5C this morning, rising to a high of -3C this afternoon before dropping sharply tonight.
Today brings mainly cloudy skies with periods of light snow and flurries, accumulating approximately 1 cm. West winds gusting to 40 km/h will make it feel like -9C to -15C throughout the day. Tonight, temperatures drop to -13C under partly cloudy skies.
Friday (January 23): Cloudy with a 40% chance of flurries. High near -13C, dropping to an overnight low of -29C as Arctic air moves in. Wind chills will be dangerous throughout the night.
Saturday (January 24): The coldest day of the season arrives with a high of only -18C under sunny skies. Wind chills will remain extreme throughout the day. This is the core of the Arctic outbreak.
Sunday (January 25): Continued cold with highs near -15C. Conditions gradually moderating but remaining well below seasonal norms.
No active weather warnings are in effect as of 7:30 AM, but Environment Canada may issue extreme cold warnings as the weekend approaches. Check conditions before outdoor activities.
What To Do Now (Weather)
The coldest air of the winter season arrives Friday night with overnight lows plunging to -29C and dangerous wind chills. Prepare now by ensuring vehicles are winterised with block heaters ready. Bring pets indoors, check on elderly neighbours, and limit outdoor exposure this weekend. If you must be outside Saturday, cover all exposed skin and take warming breaks every 10-15 minutes.
Weekend Events at a Glance
Thursday, January 22:
- Irene’s Thursday Blues Sessions @ Irene’s Pub, 8:00 PM (Free)
- Shelley, Beethoven & Korngold @ NAC, 7:00 PM ($50+)
- Lord of the Rings In Concert @ TD Place, 8:00 PM ($60+)
- The Getdown DJ Night @ Rabbit Hole, 10:00 PM (Eventbrite)
- Free Museum Evening @ Canadian Museum of Nature, after 5:00 PM
Friday, January 24:
- Ottawa Senators vs Carolina Hurricanes @ Canadian Tire Centre, 7:00 PM ($23+)
- Fire’d Up Fridays @ The Laff, 5:00 PM
- VON Online Job Fair (Check cercottawa.ca)
Saturday, January 25:
- Ottawa Senators vs Vegas Golden Knights @ Canadian Tire Centre, 5:00 PM ($21+)
- Commissionaires In-Person Job Fair (January 24 extends)
- Weekend Skating @ Rideau Canal (conditions permitting)
All Weekend:
- Museums open with regular hours
- Ski resorts operating (Camp Fortune, Calabogie, Mont Cascades)
- Indoor skating rinks throughout the city
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many federal jobs are being cut in Ottawa?
Statistics Canada announced 850 job cuts over two years as part of broader federal workforce reductions targeting 40,000 positions by 2028-29. Approximately 100 surplus notices were issued immediately this week. The cuts affect multiple departments across the National Capital Region, with nearly 7,000 workers nationwide already receiving workforce adjustment notices.
Q: What is the weather forecast for Ottawa this weekend?
The coldest air of the season arrives Friday night with overnight lows dropping to -29C. Saturday’s high will only reach -18C with dangerous wind chills throughout the day. Dress in layers, limit outdoor exposure, and check on vulnerable neighbours during this Arctic outbreak.
Q: Are the Ottawa Senators playing at home this weekend?
Yes, the Senators host two home games at Canadian Tire Centre in Kanata. Friday January 24 at 7:00 PM versus Carolina Hurricanes (tickets from $23) and Saturday January 25 at 5:00 PM versus Vegas Golden Knights (tickets from $21). Tonight’s game against Nashville is an away game.
Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open?
Check ottawa.ca/skating for daily updates on Rideau Canal Skateway conditions. Ice quality depends on sustained cold temperatures. City outdoor rinks including the Rink of Dreams at City Hall are operating when weather permits. For complete skating information, see our Rideau Canal Skateway guide.
Q: Which museums offer free admission on Thursdays?
The Canadian Museum of Nature at 240 McLeod St. offers free general admission after 5:00 PM on Thursdays until 8:00 PM closing. Special exhibits may require additional fees. Other museums have regular admission but often offer reduced rates for seniors and youth. For a complete list of free admission days, see our Ottawa museums free admission guide.
Q: What phone scams should Ottawa residents watch for?
Active scams include CRA impersonators demanding immediate payment via gift cards, grandparent scams using AI-generated voices, tech support scams claiming device hacks, and online marketplace fraud on Kijiji and Facebook. Never provide personal information to unsolicited callers and report suspicious activity to Ottawa Police (613-236-1222) and CAFC (1-888-495-8501).
Q: How are Ottawa hospitals handling emergency room wait times?
Emergency departments remain busy due to respiratory illness season. Check real-time wait times via the Ontario Health Ministry dashboard or call The Ottawa Hospital (613-722-7000) or CHEO (613-737-7600). Flu activity is moderate with H3N2 predominant. Vaccination is strongly recommended for all residents over six months.
Q: What are the new property tax rates for Ottawa homeowners?
The 2026 budget includes a 3.75% property tax increase, adding approximately $166 annually to the average home valued at $415,000. Additional increases include $36 for policing and $74 for OC Transpo, totaling up to $237 extra for urban homeowners.
Q: Is O-Train Line 1 operating normally?
Line 1 is running with reduced train availability, using a mix of single- and double-car trains. Scheduled frequency remains unchanged but some riders may need to wait for a second train during peak hours. Monitor OC Transpo apps for real-time updates.
Q: What live music is happening in Ottawa tonight?
Tonight’s options include Irene’s Thursday Blues Sessions at 8:00 PM with guest host Leslie Rohenczy, Thursday Night Live with Jason Colson Duo at The Laff starting 9:00 PM, Austin Camp folk music at Avant-Garde Bar, and The Getdown DJ night at Rabbit Hole from 10:00 PM.
Q: What are the new immigration changes for 2026?
IRCC released 110,000 additional economic-class immigration spots effective January 6, 2026, prioritizing in-Canada workers and those with job offers. Canada plans to admit 380,000 permanent residents in 2026, down from 395,000 in 2025, with increased focus on French-speaking newcomers outside Quebec. For complete details on recent changes, see our Canada 2026 immigration changes guide.
Q: Where can Ottawa job seekers find employment resources?
CERC Ottawa hosts a Better Jobs Ontario info session today for retraining eligibility. Upcoming events include VON Online Job Fair (January 23), Uline Sales Hiring (January 23), and Commissionaires In-Person Fair (January 24). Check cercottawa.ca for details and registration links.
Final Summary
Ottawa residents face a week of significant challenges as federal job cuts accelerate and the coldest temperatures of the winter season approach. Statistics Canada’s announcement of 850 position reductions adds to the nearly 7,000 federal workers already affected by workforce adjustments, sending ripples through the National Capital Region’s largest employment sector.
The weather demands immediate preparation as overnight lows plunge to -29C Friday night with extreme wind chills persisting through Saturday. Limit outdoor exposure, ensure vehicles are winterised, and check on vulnerable neighbours during this Arctic outbreak.
Despite these challenges, Ottawa’s cultural scene offers welcome diversions. The Senators return home this weekend for two games, museums extend Thursday evening hours with free admission at the Canadian Museum of Nature, and live music venues across the city host performances tonight. Job seekers can access multiple career fairs this week, while newcomers benefit from the additional 110,000 immigration spots released by IRCC.
Stay safe on the roads, watch for active scam campaigns, and bundle up for the coldest weekend of the season.
Sources & References
Sources cited throughout this article:
- Environment Canada - Ottawa Weather
- Ottawa Police Service
- OC Transpo
- City of Ottawa
- Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
- Statistics Canada
- National Arts Centre
- Ottawa Senators
- Canadian Museum of Nature
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
- Ottawa Public Health
- Ontario Health Ministry ED Wait Times
- YMCA Newcomer Information Centre
- Ottawa Public Library
This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents. For the latest updates, check venue websites and social media. Weather conditions change rapidly—always verify before outdoor activities.
