This weekend presents a rare chance for Ottawa residents to enjoy unusually warm weather before the onset of fall. Meteorologist Geoff Coulson from Environment Canada noted the exceptional temperature forecast for the upcoming days, with warm air from the southern U.S. pushing temperatures into the mid- to high-20s, well above the typical highs of around 16 C for this time of year.
Anticipated highs include 25 C on Friday, 26 C on Saturday, 28 C on Sunday, and 27 C on Monday. Coulson mentioned the possibility of Sunday’s temperature surpassing the previous record of 27 C set in 1991.
Local restaurants are eagerly anticipating the warm weather and the bustling patios it will bring. Rob McIsaac, co-founder of Beyond the Pale Brewing Company, expressed excitement about the potential increase in business due to the pleasant outdoor dining conditions.
The hot temperatures are expected to subside by the middle of the following week. Moreover, Coulson highlighted the ongoing dry conditions in eastern Ontario, with September marking the third consecutive month of below-average rainfall. As a result, all six conservation authorities in the region have issued low water level statements, urging the public to conserve water.
The impact of the dry weather is evident, with instances such as a forest fire in North Dundas, Ont., occurring amidst burn bans and water advisories. Local farmers have also been discussing the effects of the hot, dry weather on their harvests, as seen in recent radio discussions.
Looking ahead, Coulson predicts that October will continue to be dry and warmer than usual, with daytime temperatures reaching 12 or 13 C instead of the typical 9 C. He also mentioned the likelihood of November experiencing above-average temperatures. However, he cautioned that the current weather trends may not necessarily correlate with the upcoming winter weather patterns.