Weather Alert Issued
On March 5, 2026, Environment Canada issued a yellow warning for freezing rain at 12:02 p.m. for the Waterloo Region and surrounding areas, including Kingston and Belleville. This alert indicates that residents should prepare for potentially hazardous weather conditions.
Forecast and Expectations
Freezing rain is expected to begin this evening and will likely continue overnight, tapering off to patchy freezing drizzle by early Friday morning, March 6. The forecast suggests that up to 2 mm of ice build-up is possible, particularly on roads and sidewalks, which could lead to dangerous travel conditions.
Impact Level and Safety Precautions
The impact level of the freezing rain warning has been classified as ‘moderate’. Residents are advised to exercise caution when walking or driving due to the likelihood of icy surfaces. Environment Canada has emphasized the importance of being careful, stating, “Be very careful if walking or driving.”
Wider Regional Warnings
Similar warnings are in effect for other areas, including Napanee, Consecon, Picton, Sandbanks Park, Quinte West, Eastern Northumberland County, Gananoque, and Mallorytown. This broad coverage indicates that the freezing rain event is expected to affect a significant portion of southern Ontario.
Potential Risks
Environment Canada has warned that icy surfaces could be difficult to detect, increasing the risk of injury due to slips and falls. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Temperature Outlook
The temperature is expected to reach a high of 5°C on Thursday and Friday, with an overnight low of -1°C in Kingston. By Saturday, temperatures are forecasted to rise to 12°C in the region, which may help alleviate some of the icy conditions.
As the freezing rain approaches, it is crucial for residents in the affected areas to stay informed and prepare for potentially hazardous conditions. The issuance of the yellow warning serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of winter weather in Ontario.