Friday, January 23, 2026

Friday, January 23, 2026

 

It is Friday, January 23, 2026, in Ottawa. The city is currently under a Cold Warning as an Arctic air mass moves through the region.

❄️ Weather Alert: Deep Freeze

Environment Canada has issued a cold warning for today into Saturday.

  • Current Conditions: -16°C, but it feels like -25°C.

  • Tonight's Forecast: Temperatures will drop to -28°C with wind chill values reaching between -35°C and -40°C.

  • Safety Note: Residents are urged to cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite and check on vulnerable neighbors.


🚆 Transit Updates: OC Transpo Delays

Commuters should prepare for a difficult afternoon and weekend:

  • LRT Line 1: Approximately 70% of the fleet is out of service due to bearing assembly issues. Expect a mix of single- and double-car trains. While frequency has been increased to every 3–4 minutes to compensate, expect significant crowding during rush hour.

  • Bus Service: Reliability remains below city standards (95.1%) due to a shortage of both mechanics and operational vehicles.


🎭 What’s On Tonight

Despite the cold, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities available:

  • Sports: The Ottawa Black Bears host the Vancouver Warriors at the Canadian Tire Centre (7:30 PM). It's "Country Night," so expect southern-themed entertainment.

  • Theater: The National Arts Centre (NAC) is hosting performances of Copperbelt and the dance/monologue piece Rinse.

  • Outdoors: The Rideau Canal Skateway is fully open (7.8 km). If you brave the ice, ensure you are dressed in multiple layers.

  • Immersive Art: Oniro, a magical night walk through the forest, is running at Parc Oméga.


📰 Local News Headlines

  • Federal Layoffs: Over 8,500 notices have been issued to federal workers this week, with Health Canada and Global Affairs being the latest departments affected.

  • Education: Algonquin College has announced plans to phase out 30 more programs, citing a lack of stable funding and international enrollment caps.

  • Legislation: AI Minister Evan Solomon announced the government is bringing forward a new Online Harms Bill, which may include a social media ban for children under 14.

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