Residents in Mississippi Mills should prepare for icy conditions as Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and rain. The freezing weather is expected to begin early Tuesday morning, March 31, and last until early Wednesday morning, April 1.
The system is caused by a Colorado Low, a weather pattern that frequently brings winter storms to the region. Forecasters expect between 20 and 40 mm of rain. The weather may arrive in two distinct waves, with a break on Tuesday where the freezing rain could pause or change to a lighter freezing drizzle. While some areas outside the Ottawa River Valley may see temperatures rise above freezing, changing freezing rain to rain, the valley is particularly prone to ice because of its unique geography, which traps cold air near the surface.
The Municipality of Mississippi Mills is responsible for clearing more than 360 kilometres of local roads, and crews will be plowing, sanding, and salting surfaces to manage the conditions. Motorists are encouraged to drive with extra caution, as untreated roads may become slippery and hazardous during the storm.
In addition to icy roads, the freezing rain could lead to power outages if ice accumulates on trees and power lines. Hydro One provides electricity for the area and asks residents to report any outages at 1-800-434-1235 or through their online portal.
The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority also has a water safety statement in effect until March 31. Officials note that streamflows are currently higher than normal and lake levels remain above average for this time of year due to earlier rainfall and snowmelt.
