Community Preparedness Information

Before a flood – Preparing for a flood

To reduce the likelihood of flood damage

• Put weather protection sealant around basement windows and the base of ground-level doors.

• Install the drainage for downspouts a sufficient distance from your residence to ensure that water moves away from the building.

• Consider installing a sump pump and zero reverse flow valves in basement floor drains.

• Do not store your important documents in the basement. Keep them at a higher level, protected from flood damage.

• If you have a livestock farm, remember that livestock have a natural "move away instinct" to flash flood waters. They generally seek higher ground if possible. When purchasing or designing your livestock operation, it is important to allow livestock a way to reach high ground in each pasture. Without access, livestock will fight fences and be at a greater risk of drowning. Livestock will initially panic during flash floods. This complicates livestock handling.

If a flood is forecasted

• Turn off basement furnaces and the outside gas valve.

• Take special precautions to safeguard electrical, natural gas or propane heating equipment.

• If there is enough time, consult your electricity or fuel supplier for instructions on how to proceed.

• In floods, in a rural farm setting, sheltering livestock may be the wrong thing to do. Leaving animals unsheltered is preferable because flood waters that inundate a barn could trap animals inside, causing them to drown.

• If evacuation of the animals is being considered, then evacuation procedures, places, and routes should be planned. Animal evacuation routes must not interfere with human evacuation routes. Alternate routes should be found in case the planned route is not accessible. Places where animals are to be taken should be decided in advance and arrangements made with the owners of these places to accept the animals.

If flooding is imminent

• Move furniture, electrical appliances and other belongings to floors above ground level.
• Remove toxic substances such as pesticides and insecticides from the flood area to prevent pollution.
• Remove toilet bowls and plug basement sewer drains and toilet connections with a wooden stopper.
• Disconnect eavestroughs if they are connected to the house sewer.
• In some cases, homes may be protected with sandbags or polyethylene barriers. This approach requires specific instructions from your local emergency officials.
• Do NOT attempt to shut off electricity if any water is present. Water and live electrical wires can be lethal. Leave your home immediately and do not return until authorities indicate it is safe to do so.

During a Flood

• Keep your radio on to find out what areas are affected, what roads are safe, where to go and what to do if the local emergency team asks you to leave your home.

• Keep your emergency kit close at hand, in a portable container such as a duffel bag, back pack, or suitcase with wheels.

Fire safety during floods

The following tips will help reduce fire risk during a power outage:

• Make sure your home has battery-operated smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Electrically connected smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms will not work when the power is out unless they have battery back-ups.
• Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns instead of candles or hurricane lamps. If using candles, place them in a secure holder and cover them with a glass chimney, away from children and pets.
• Only use propane and charcoal barbecues outdoors. Do not bring them inside.
• Use only portable space heaters that have been designed for indoor use and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Provide adequate ventilation by opening a window slightly while the heater is in use. Before refueling, turn off the heater, wait for it to cool and take the heater outside to refuel.
• Make sure electric stove elements and small appliances are off or unplugged to prevent fires from occurring when the electricity is restored.
• Have at least one phone that does not require electricity to operate. Cordless phones will not work when the power is out.

Generator Safety

Portable generators are a temporary solution to power appliances. It’s important to know that portable generators emit carbon monoxide (CO), a poisonous, deadly gas.  Use these tips to avoid CO exposure:

• Purchase generators with recognized approval labels. Make sure the unit has proper connection receptacles and circuit breakers.

• Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas at least 20 feet (7 metres) from all doors, windows, and vent openings. Measure the 20-foot (7 metre) distance from the generator to the building.

• Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open.

• Place generators so that exhaust fumes can’t enter the home through windows, doors or other openings in the building. The exhaust must be directed away from the building.

• Make sure to install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in your home. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for correct placement and mounting height.

• Turn off generators and let them cool down before refueling. Never refuel a generator while it is hot.

• Store fuel for the generator in a container that is intended for the purpose and is correctly labeled as such. Store the containers outside of living areas.
• When plugging in appliances, make sure they are plugged directly into the generator or a heavy duty outdoor-rated extension cord. The cords should be checked for cuts, tears and that the plug has all three prongs, especially a grounding pin.
• If you must connect the generator to the house wiring to power appliances, have a qualified electrician install a properly rated transfer switch in accordance with applicable electrical codes.

If you need to evacuate

Vacate your home when you are advised to do so by local emergency authorities. Ignoring such a warning could jeopardize the safety of your family or those who might eventually have to come to your rescue.

• Take your emergency kit with you.

• Follow the routes specified by officials. Don't take shortcuts. They could lead you to a blocked or dangerous area.

• Plan for pets.

• Time permitting, leave a note informing others when you left and where you went. If you have a mailbox, leave the note there.

Never cross a flooded area

• If you are on foot, fast water could sweep you away.

• If you are in a car, do not drive through flood waters or underpasses. The water may be deeper than it looks and your car could get stuck or swept away by fast water.

• Avoid crossing bridges if the water is high and flowing quickly.

• If you are caught in fast-rising waters and your car stalls, leave it and save yourself and your passengers.

After a flood

Restore your home to good order as soon as possible to protect your health and prevent further damage to the house and its contents.

Re-entering your home

• Do not return home until authorities have advised that it is safe to do so.

• If the main power switch was not turned off prior to flooding, do not re-enter your home until a qualified electrician has determined it is safe to do so.

• Use extreme caution when returning to your home after a flood.

• Appliances that may have been flooded pose a risk of shock or fire when turned on. Do not use any appliances, heating, pressure, or sewage system until electrical components have been thoroughly cleaned, dried, and inspected by a qualified electrician.

• The main electrical panel must be cleaned, dried, and tested by a qualified electrician to ensure that it is safe.

• Depending on where you live, your municipal or the provincial inspection authority is responsible for the permitting process required before your electric utility can reconnect power to your home.

Water

• Flood water can be heavily contaminated with sewage and other pollutants. It can cause sickness and infections.

• If your house has been flooded and you have a well, don't drink the water. Have it tested first.

• Household items that have been flood-damaged will have to be discarded according to local regulations.

• Remove water from your flooded home slowly. Drain it in stages - about one third of the volume daily - because if the ground is still saturated and water is removed too quickly, the walls or the floor could buckle.

• Use pumps or pails to remove standing water, then a wet/dry shop vacuum to mop up the rest.

• For instructions on how to disinfect and restore wells and cisterns, contact your local or provincial health authorities or emergency management organization.

Documentation

• Store all valuable papers that have been damaged in a freezer until they are needed (After your cleanup, consult your lawyer to determine whether flood-damaged documents, or just the information in them, must be retained).

• Record details of flood damage by photograph or video, if possible.

• Register the amount of damage to your home with both your insurance agent and local municipality immediately.

Clean-up

• Maintain good hygiene during flood cleanup. Minimize contact with floodwater or anything that may have been in contact with it.
• Keep children away from contaminated areas during cleanup operations.  Recommended flood cleanup equipment:

  • Gloves

  • Masks and other protective gear

  • Pails, mops and squeegees

  • Plastic garbage bags

  • Unscented detergent

  • Large containers for soaking bedding, clothing and linens, and clotheslines to hang them to dry

Heating and appliances

• Do not heat your home to more than 4°C (about 40°F) until all of the water is removed.

• If you use pumps or heaters powered by gasoline, kerosene or propane, buy and install a carbon monoxide sensor. Combustion devices can produce large amounts of lethal carbon monoxide if they're not tuned-up or are improperly ventilated.

• Do not use flooded appliances, electrical outlets, switch boxes or fuse-breaker panels until they have been checked by your local utility.

• Whether you use a wood, gas or electrical heating system, have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified technician before using it again. Replace the furnace blower motor, switches and controls if they have been soaked.

• Flooded forced-air heating ducts and return-duct pans should be either cleaned or replaced.

• Replace filters and insulation inside furnaces, water heaters, refrigerators and freezers if they have been wet. However, it is often cheaper to replace this equipment.

Dirt and debris

• Remove all soaked and dirty materials as well as debris.

• Break out walls and remove drywall, wood panelling and insulation at least 50 centimetres (20 inches) above the high-water line.

• Hose down any dirt sticking to walls and solid-wood furniture then rinse several times.

• Wash and wipe down all surfaces and structures with unscented detergent and water. Rinse.

Floor drains

• Flush and disinfect floor drains and sump pumps with detergent and water. Scrub them to remove greasy dirt and grime.

• Clean or replace footing drains outside the foundation when they are clogged. Consult a professional for advice or service.

Structures

• Ventilate or dehumidify the house until it is completely dry.

• Rinse and then clean all floors as quickly as possible.

• Replace flooring that has been deeply penetrated by flood water or sewage.

• Clean all interior wall and floor cavities with a solution of water and unscented detergent.

Carpets and furniture

• Carpets must be dried within the first two days. For large areas, hire a qualified professional to do the job. Carpets soaked with sewage must be discarded immediately.

• Remove residual mud and soil from furniture, appliances, etc.

• If items are just damp, let the mud dry and then brush it off.

• To test if material is dry, tape clear food wrap to the surface of the item. If the covered section turns darker than the surrounding material, it is still damp. Dry until this no longer occurs.

• For upholstered furniture you should consult a professional to see what can be salvaged. In the meantime, remove cushions and dry separately. Do not remove upholstery. Raise furniture on blocks and place fans underneath.

• Wooden furniture: Remove drawers and open doors. Do not dry quickly or splitting may occur.

Mould

• Mould can lead to serious health problems.

• You may need to have your home professionally cleaned for it to be covered by insurance. Check with your insurance company.

• If you are cleaning up in a room where mould is present, wear a face mask and disposable gloves.

• To minimize mould growth, move items to a cool, dry area within 48 hours and set up fans.

• Alternatively, textiles, furs, paper and books can be frozen until they are treated.

• Wet mould will smear if wiped. Let it dry and then brush it off outdoors.

• You can also kill mould spores by lightly misting the item with historian (rubbing alcohol).

Food and medicine

• All undamaged canned goods must be thoroughly washed and disinfected.

• Dispose of all medicines, cosmetics and other toiletries that have been exposed to flood water.

• Dispose of any of the following food items if they have been exposed to flood water:

  • Contents of freezer or refrigerator, including all meats and all fresh fruit and vegetables.

  • All boxed foods.

  • All bottled drinks and products in jars, including home preserves (since the area under the seal of jars and bottles cannot be properly disinfected).

  • Cans with large dents or that reveal seepage.

What to discard

• All insulation materials, particle board furniture, mattresses, box springs, stuffed toys, pillows, padding, cushions and furniture coverings that have been exposed to flood water.

What is salvageable

• Frames of high-quality furniture can often be saved. However, they must first be cleaned, disinfected and rinsed, then dried by ventilation away from direct sunlight or heat. Drying too quickly can cause warping and cracking.

• Clothes can be cleaned. Scrape heavy dirt from washable clothes. Rinse and wash them several times with detergent and dry quickly.

Before moving back in

• Once the flood waters have receded, you must not live in your house until:

• The regular water supply has been inspected and officially declared safe for use.

• Every flood-contaminated room has been thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and surface-dried.

• All contaminated dishes and utensils have been thoroughly washed and disinfected - either by using boiling water or by using a sterilizing solution of one-part chlorine bleach to four parts water. Rinse dishes and utensils thoroughly.

• Adequate toilet facilities are available. (For more information, consult your local health authority.)

 Flooding Resources

• Perth County Interactive Flooding Status Map
• Grand River Conservation Authority
• Upper Thames River Conservation Authority
• Maitland Valley Conservation Authority
• Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority
• For additional information, see Public Safety Canada's "Floods - What to do" guide.

Step 1: Know the risks and get prepared

Plan to shelter in place

• If you remain on your property during an emergency, you will need to decide whether to confine large animals in an available shelter or leave them outdoors.
• Survey your property for the best location for animal sheltering. Ensure that your animals have access to high areas in case of flooding, as well as to food and clean water.
• If your pasture area meets the following criteria, your livestock may be better off out in the pasture than being evacuated. A safe pasture has:
  • Native tree species only. Exotic trees uproot easily.
  • No overhead power lines or poles.
  • No debris or sources of blowing debris.
  • No barbed wire fencing. Woven wire fencing is best.
  • At least one acre (0.4 hectares) of open space. Livestock may not be able to avoid blowing debris in smaller spaces.
• Ensure that you have enough food and essentials supplies for you and your family for at least 72 hours (three days).
• If your property does not meet these criteria, consider evacuating your animals, but only on the advice of your veterinarian or local emergency management officials.
• Click here for additional information on Generator Safety

Plan to evacuate

• Familiarize all family members and employees with your evacuation plans.

• Arrange in advance for a place to shelter your animals. Plan ahead and work within your community to establish safe shelters for farm animals, such as fairgrounds, other farms, racetracks, and exhibition centers.

• Ensure that sufficient feed and medical supplies are available at the destination.

• Be ready to leave as soon as an evacuation is ordered. In a slowly evolving emergency, like a hurricane, plan to evacuate at least 72 hours before anticipated landfall, especially if you will be hauling a high profile trailer such as a horse trailer. It may not be possible to evacuate heavy loads safely in high winds. Also, once the emergency hits roads may be restricted to emergency service vehicles and not open to traffic.

• Set up safe transportation. You will need to have access to trucks, trailers, and other vehicles suitable for transporting each type of animal, along with experienced handlers and drivers. You may need access to a portable loading ramp to load, or unload, animals.

• If animals are evacuated to a centralized location such as a fair grounds for shelter and will co-mingle with other animals of unknown health status try to:

  • Make sure your animals have sufficient identification (e.g. ear tags or brands) to be able to tell them apart from others.

  • minimize the contact among animals from different premises.

  • protect feed and water from contact with wild animals and birds. Verify the health and vaccination status of animals which must be co-mingled.

  • handle any mortalities in a manner to minimize the possible spread of contagious diseases.

  • monitor the health and well being of the animals on a daily basis, whether sheltered in place or evacuated. Seek appropriate veterinary medical advice and services on suspicion of an animal disease problem.

  • Accommodation will need to include milking equipment for dairy cows (as applicable). Milk may need to be stored separately from cows of other herds. Milk “pickup” companies should be notified where to pick up the milk.

Whether you evacuate or shelter in place, make sure that you have adequate and safe fencing or pens to separate and group animals appropriately.

When leaving the farm

• Ensure that the electricity on the farm (typically on a power pole into the farm) is turned off.

Get Prepared

• Make sure every animal has durable and visible identification and that you have proof of ownership for all animals.

• Reinforce your house, barn, and outbuildings with hurricane straps and other measures. Perform regular safety inspections on all utilities, buildings, and facilities on your farm.

• If possible, remove all barbed wire and consider re-routing permanent fencing, so that animals may move to high ground in a flood and to low-lying areas during high winds.

• Identify alternate water and power sources. A generator with a safely stored supply of fuel may be essential, especially if you have milking equipment or other electrical equipment necessary to the well being of your animals. Generators should be tested regularly to be sure they will work when needed.

• Install a hand pump and obtain enough large containers to water your animals for at least a week. Be aware that municipal water supplies and wells may be contaminated during an emergency.

• Properly plug any abandoned water wells on the site. The exact method for this varies according to provincial/territorial regulations. Regardless of method, the intent is to prevent contaminated water from entering the groundwater. Production wells should also be checked to see that they are secure from flood waters. It may be necessary to decontaminate wells after a flood.

• Secure or remove anything that could become blowing debris; make a habit of securing trailers, propane tanks, and other large objects. If you have feed troughs or other large containers, fill them with water before any high wind event. This prevents them from blowing around and also provides an additional supply of water.

• If you use heat lamps or other electrical machinery, make sure the wiring is safe and that any heat source is clear of flammable debris.

• Label hazardous materials and place them all in the same safe area. Provide local fire, rescue and emergency management authorities with information about the location of any hazardous materials on your property.

• Remove old buried trash—a potential source of hazardous materials during flooding that may leech into crops, feed supplies, water sources, and pasture.

• If there is a threat of flooding, ensure that in-ground manure pits or cisterns are kept at least half full of water of other liquid to ensure that they are not damaged or “floated” by rising groundwater.

• Chemicals should be stored in secured areas, preferably on high ground and/or on shelving off the ground. These areas should be protected so that chemical spills will not result in any runoff or seepage.

• Click here for additional information on Generator Safety

Step 2 : Make an emergency plan

• Make an emergency plan to protect your property, your facilities, and your animals. Create a contact list of emergency telephone numbers, including your employees, neighbours, veterinarian, poison control, local animal shelter, animal care and control, transportation resources, and local volunteer organizations.

• Include an out of town contact person who is unlikely to be affected by the same emergency. Make sure all this information is written down, and that everyone on your farm and your contact person has a copy.

• Review, test, and update your emergency plan, supplies, and information regularly.

Step 3: Prepare a farm emergency kit

Make an emergency kit so you have emergency supplies in one location, and let everyone know where it is. Check and update contents regularly. Include the following items and personalize according to your needs:

• Current list of all animals, including their location and records of feeding, vaccinations, and tests. Make this information available at various locations on the farm.
• Supplies for temporary identification of your animals, such as plastic neckbands and permanent markers to label animals with your name, address, and telephone number.
• Basic first aid kit.
• Handling equipment such as halters, cages, blankets, and appropriate tools for each kind of animal. Include bolt-cutters to quickly free animals in an emergency.
• Water, feed, and buckets. Tools and supplies needed for sanitation.
• Emergency equipment such as a cell phone, flashlights, portable radios (with weather radio band) and/or Weather radio, and batteries. Know the weather radio broadcast frequencies and local weather information telephone numbers.
• Other safety and emergency items for your vehicles and trailers.
• Food, water, and emergency supplies for your family.

For additional information, see Public Safety Canada's "Emergency Preparedness for Farm Animals" Guide

TIPS ON PREPARING FOR SEVERE WEATHER

1. Don’t wait for a storm to hit. Most winter storm systems are forecast well in advance. Prepare ahead of time and you’ll be able to react quickly when a storm arrives. Have a Home Emergency Survival Kit stocked and ready, and in a place where it can easily be accessed.

2. Pay close attention to the weather. Some types of nasty winter weather like snowsqualls can develop very quickly. Be sure to regularly check weather conditions.

3. Travel safely. Give your car a winter tune-up in mid-autumn and have your snow tires installed early in fall. Assemble a car emergency kit including basic items like high-energy snacks, a flashlight or road hazard light, new batteries, a blanket, and warm gel packs.

4. Dress for the weather. Winter storms and high wind chills can be hazardous. Be aware of conditions worsening and always dress to suit the weather. Wear a hat and thin layers of loose clothing with water-repellent and wind-resistant outer layers. Watch carefully for symptoms indicating hypothermia: shivering, confusion and loss of muscle control. Frostbite can occur in minutes; watch for numbness or whiteness on ears, nose, fingers and toes.

5. Respect travel advisories and road closure notices. If local emergency responders are advising you to stay inside and not travel – follow that direction. Take cover inside and stay there until the storm has subsided and the danger has passed. Staying off the roadways as directed allows emergency responders and snow removal crews better access.

6. After-storm conditions can pose hazards too. Downed tree limbs and power lines can be dangerous. Blowing snow can still pose driving risks as visibility may still be affected. Be extremely cautious if you tackle tree removal yourself! Even falling ice and snow can be deadly.

7. When a winter storm hits, stay indoors. If you must go outside, dress for the weather. Outer clothing should be tightly woven and water-repellent. The jacket should have a hood. Wear mittens - they are warmer than gloves - and a hat, as large portion of body heat is lost through the head.
8. In wide-open areas, visibility can be virtually zero during heavy blowing snow or a blizzard. You can easily lose your way. If a blizzard strikes, do not try to walk to another building unless there is a rope to guide you or something you can follow.
9. If you must travel during a winter storm, do so during the day and let someone know your route and arrival time.
10. If your car gets stuck in a blizzard or snowstorm, remain calm and stay in your car. Allow fresh air in your car by opening the window slightly on the sheltered side - away from the wind. You can run the car engine about 10 minutes every half-hour if the exhaust system is working well. Beware of exhaust fumes and check the exhaust pipe periodically to make sure it is not blocked with snow. Remember: you can't smell potentially fatal carbon monoxide fumes.
11. To keep your hands and feet warm, exercise them periodically. In general, it is a good idea to keep moving to avoid falling asleep. If you do try to shovel the snow from around your car, avoid overexerting yourself.
12. Overexertion in the bitter cold can cause death as a result of sweating or a heart attack.

WHAT IS A SIGNIFICANT WEATHER EVENT?

Significant Weather Event – As per Regulation 239/02 of the Municipal Act 2001, an Ontario municipality may declare a significant weather event when a weather hazard is approaching or occurring and has the potential to pose a significant danger to users of the highways in which they have authority over. This declaration suspends the standard timelines required for municipalities to meet their winter maintenance objectives until the municipality declares the significant weather event has ended. In each case, during the course of a declared significant weather event, the standard for addressing winter maintenance is to monitor the weather and to deploy resources to address the issue starting from the time that the municipality deems it safe to do so. When the County or a municipality has declared the event has ended, the standard timelines for winter maintenance activities will begin. However, it takes time following a significant weather event to clear roadways completely.

Perth County, and any local municipality within the county may declare a significant weather event when the weather forecast or actual weather condition includes one or more of the following conditions:

• Significant snow accumulation during a 24-hour period,

• Ice formation that occurs with no warning from the weather forecast,

• High winds leading to large snow drifts,

• Cold temperature when de-icing operations will not be effective.

• Perth County website
• Social Media (i.e. Twitter, Facebook)
• News Release

ROAD AND WEATHER COMMUNICATIONS PRACTICES

Roads in Perth County

Several factors create challenges when communicating road condition information during any weather event. Perth County has three types of roads:

1. Local Municipal (Lower-Tier)
2. County (Upper-Tier), and
3. Provincial (MTO)

Each road type has its own maintenance requirements which is dependent also on the individual road class. Each type of road also has differing sources of information.  Below is a summary and description of the resources and road information in Perth County:

SEVERE WEATHER NOTICES

FOUR TYPES OF STATEMENTS/ADVISORIES/WATCHES

The type of alert used depends on the severity and timing of the event:

1. Special Weather Statement – a “Heads Up”: Special Weather Statements are intended to advise the media and the public of not so common, inconvenient, or unusual weather conditions, or for the longer-term potential development of hazardous weather conditions. These are issued to let you know that conditions are unusual and could cause concern. They provide a heads up of what weather may be coming.

   • When are these used?

     • To express uncertainty when there is a reasonable chance that a weather event has more impact than currently implied by the current forecast. Example: an approaching weather system which has a history of producing numerous severe thunderstorms; or an intense winter storm which could produce heavy snowfall overnight, creating dangerous conditions for the morning commute.
     • To highlight significant weather that may affect major events with heightened media attention. For example, snow and cold wind chills for the Grey Cup.
     • To highlight significant weather in cases for which a warning is not normally issued. For example, widespread fog with near-zero visibilities.
     • To give a broader scope to a local weather event. For example: “Blizzard conditions have developed in Montana. Although extreme southern Saskatchewan may be brushed by the storm, it will generally remain south of the international border.”
     • To highlight and explain unusual weather such as cold air (cold core) funnels, waterspouts, and dust devils.
     • To highlight and report the unusual duration of a specific weather phenomenon, for example, days with/without rain.

2. Weather Advisory: Weather advisories cover a wide array of deteriorating weather conditions.  These bulletins are issued for specific weather events (like blowing snow, fog, freezing drizzle and frost) that are less severe, but could still significantly affect Canadians.  They also can be issued preceding watches and warnings — as is the case with funnel cloud advisories — or they can be issued to indicate severe weather in a long-term forecast.

3. Weather Watches: Watches are issued when there is the potential for severe weather. Watches alert you about weather conditions where there is potential for the development of significant storms or severe weather. As certainty increases about the path and strength of a storm system, a Watch could be upgraded to a Warning.  A Winter Storm Watch is usually issued 18 to 36 hours in advance of the approaching bad weather.

4. Weather Warnings: Severe weather is occurring or will occur. These alerts are updated regularly so that you can stay informed and take appropriate action.  As an example: A tornado warning would mean a tornado is occurring, has occurred, or is about to occur and those in the area/region should take cover immediately.

WINTER WEATHER ALERTS

Winter alerts can be categorized into three basic categories (each of which can occur in combination with another):

1. Precipitation alerts:

• Snowfall - significant snowfall – Deep snow on roads can happen quickly
• Snow Squall - when cold air moves across larger open bodies of water, lakes or rivers creating nearly stationary bands of cloud and snow
• Freezing Rain / Freezing Drizzle - when rain or drizzle falls onto sub-zero surfaces and freezes on contact forming a layer of ice
• Rainfall - significant rainfall – pooling on roads
• Winter Storm - issued when multiple types of severe winter weather are expected to occur together

2. Cold alerts:

• Extreme Cold - extremely cold temperatures or very low wind chill values
• Flash Freeze - issued when a rapid drop in temperature causes water from rain or melted snow on streets, sidewalks etc. to quickly freeze

3. Poor Visibility alerts:

• Blizzard - issued when winds are expected to create blowing snow giving widespread reduced visibility of 400 metres or less
• Blowing Snow - issued when winds are expected to create blowing snow giving poor visibility of 800 metres or less

Identifying watches and warnings

• Tornado Watches occur when conditions favorable for a severe thunderstorm with a tornado are imminent.

• Tornado Warnings occur when a tornado has been reported or there is evidence a tornado is imminent.

• Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued if there is the potential for the development of a thunderstorm with either wind gusts of 90 kilometres an hour or greater, hail with a diameter of two centimetres or greater, or heavy rainfall (with 50 millimetres or more within one hour).

• Severe Thunderstorm Warning would be issued if a cell was spotted on radar with one or more of the weather conditions listed above occurring.

• Rainfall Warning would be issued when heavy or prolonged rainfall is sufficient to cause local or widespread flooding or flash floods. A Rainfall Warning for longer duration rain (50 mm or more in 24 hours or less) may often times be preceded by a Special Weather Statement.

• Extreme Heat Warnings would be issued when temperature is expected to reach 30 degrees Celsius or more and the humidex value is expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius or more, or poor air quality may be expected.

What is the difference between a weather watch and warning?

Storm season is rolling in, which means the news will be dominated with weather advisories, watches and warnings. While all these terms cover exceptional weather events, they differ in meaning and severity. It is the responsibility of Environment and Climate Change Canada to issue Advisories, Watches and Warnings.

1. Advisories - Advisories can be used to cover a wide array of deteriorating weather conditions and are frequently used to describe weather events that can be cause for public concern. Advisories can be issued before watches and warnings or they can be issued to indicate severe weather in a long-term forecast.
2. Watches - A warning is the next step in the process.  Warnings are urgent messages that severe weather is either occurring or will occur. These alerts are updated regularly so that you can stay informed and take appropriate action.  As an example: A tornado warning would mean a tornado is occurring or about to occur and those in the region should take cover immediately.
3. Warnings - A warning is the next step in the process. Warnings are issued when that severe weather is actually occurring or is imminent.

• For example, a tornado watch would mean there is a good chance that a tornado will form in the affected area, whereas a tornado warning would mean a tornado is occurring or about to occur and those in the region should take cover immediately.
• For Flash Flood type events (50 mm or more in 1 hour or less), Severe Thunderstorm Watches and Warnings will often be issued making special mention of the thunderstorms’ ability to produce short-duration, high-intensity rainfall.

THUNDERSTORMS

Thunderstorms can be accompanied by hail, lightning, high winds, heavy rain and can also spurn tornadoes. Thunderstorms are usually short and over within an hour although a series of thunderstorms can last for several hours.

Thunderstorms

• Cut down dead trees and branches ahead of time so they can’t fall and cause damage.
• Secure lawn furniture and other objects that might be blown around.
• If a thunderstorm is approaching, unplug televisions, computers, and other electronic equipment.
• Do not go out in a boat during a storm or if one is in the forecast.  If you are on the water and bad weather is approaching, head for shore immediately.
• If you are in a vehicle and need to stop, park away from trees and power lines that could fall. Stay inside your vehicle.
• If you are outside in a thunderstorm, take shelter in a building immediately. If there is no building nearby, shelter in a low, protected area such as a ditch, culvert or cave.
• Don’t lie flat if you are caught in an open area. Crouch down on two feet to minimize your contact with the ground in case there is a nearby lightning strike.
• Never take shelter under a tree.

WHEN THUNDER ROARS, GO INDOORS!

LIGHTNING

Lightning can strike anywhere within the same area that thunder sound travels. If you can hear thunder, you can be struck by lightning and should seek shelter immediately. There is no safe place outdoors during a thunderstorm. If thunder roars, go indoors!

If outside:

• Stay away from trees, telephone poles, wires, fences, or anything metal.
• Seek a low-lying area and don’t stand near anything made of metal.

If indoors:

• Stay away from appliances or equipment — anything that will conduct electricity including sinks, tubs and showers.
• Avoid using a telephone that is connected to a landline.

If driving or boating:

• Do not park under tall objects that could topple.
• Do not stop or exit vehicle if there are power lines down nearby.
• Quickly get to shore, especially in an open cabin boat, and find shelter

TORNADOS

A tornado is an extremely powerful, dangerous, funnel-shaped wind vortex that comes into contact with the ground and causes damage. Tornado season runs from March to October with peak activity in late June or early July. These dangerous storms leave a path of destruction in their wake and an average tornado can cause a trail of damage six kilometres long. Signs of a tornado include: a dark greenish sky, large hail, often with little rain, visible cloud rotation, a funnel cloud hanging towards the ground, visible debris and a rumbling or whistling sound.

IF YOU ARE IN THE HOUSE:

• Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
• Take shelter in the basement, or take shelter in a small interior ground floor room such as a bathroom, closet or hallway.
• If there is no basement, go to a small interior room, hallway or closet on the ground floor.
• Take shelter under a sturdy desk or table for more protection
• In a multi-storey building, go to an interior room or hallway on the ground floor. Avoid using elevators.

IF YOU ARE IN A LARGE OPEN BUILDING SUCH AS A GYM, ARENA, AUDITORIUM OR CHURCH

• Be aware that the wide span roof of a large building can collapse in a tornado.
• Take shelter in another building if possible.
• If you cannot leave, move to a small interior room such as a change room, washroom, cloakroom or storage room. Look for sturdy tables or desks to shelter under.

IF YOU ARE DRIVING AND SPOT A TORNADO

• Take shelter immediately if a warning has been issued (never wait until you see a tornado).
• Don’t go under an overpass or bridge — you’re safer in an open flat area.
• If you cannot find shelter, lie flat in a ditch and cover your head with your hands.
• Always get as close to the ground as possible and watch for flying debris (small objects become lethal weapons when carried by tornado winds).
• If you are driving and see a tornado, get to a nearby shelter or travel away from the tornado.
• Do not use your car as a shelter - debris may come through the windows, or the vehicle may be swept away.

IF YOU ARE IN A MOBILE HOME, VEHICLE, OR RV WHEN A TORNADO IS APPROACHING

• Take shelter in a nearby building that has a strong foundation.
• If no building is available, get out of the vehicle and lie down in a low area or ditch.

After a Tornado

• Monitor media and social media for information about how to access assistance.
• Be mindful of any debris, damage to homes, buildings, roads, bridges.
• Report any emergency situations to local police, fire or paramedic services.
• Notify your insurance agent or broker if your property is damaged.
• Check for blown fuses, circuit breakers, or short-circuits in your home wiring and equipment (If a problem exists, call an expert).
• Check for gas leaks in your home and if you smell gas (a rotten egg odour), evacuate the house immediately and call 9-1-1. 
• Always follow instructions provided to you by your local gas company and local emergency responders.
• DO NOT approach or touch any liquid or vapour cloud that might have come from a gas line leak and remove your car or any equipment that could be a potential ignition source. This includes smoking, lighting a match or using electronics (cell phones, pagers, flashlights, keyless entry remotes, and vehicle alarms).

EXTREME HEAT

Extreme heat or heat waves can be particularly dangerous for children, seniors, people with medical conditions and pets. A heat wave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather that can be made worse by poor air quality.

Environment Canada issues heat warnings when:

• The temperature is expected to reach 30 degrees Celsius or more and the humidex value is expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius or more.
• The humidex combines temperature and humidity into one number describing how hot, humid weather feels to the average person.
• The higher the humidex, the harder it is for perspiration to evaporate and cool the body.

Air Quality

If poor air quality conditions are expected:

• Avoid or reduce strenuous physical outdoor activities.
• Avoid exercising near areas of heavy traffic.

If you have heart or lung conditions, talk to your physician about additional ways to protect your health. The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) helps people plan ahead by letting them know the best time of day to be physically active and when to reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activity. AQHI forecasts are posted at airhealth.ca.

Preparing for Extreme Heat

You can prepare for extreme heat by taking the following measures:

• Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.
• Check air conditioning ducts for proper insulation.
• Install temporary reflectors, such as foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside.
• Weather-strip doors and windows to keep cool air inside.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or blinds, which can reduce the heat that enters a home.

What you should do during extreme heat:

• Stay indoors as much as possible.
• If air conditioning is not available, stay on a lower floor out of the sun.
• Eat well-balanced light and regular meals that don’t need to be cooked.
• Drink plenty of water even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured and lightweight clothing made of breathable fabrics.
• If your home is not air conditioned, consider spending the warmest part of the day in air-conditioned buildings such as libraries, movie theatres, shopping malls, and other community facilities.
• Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed.

How to conserve energy during extreme heat:

• Adjust or turn off your air conditioner when not home – use a programmable thermostat.
• Use ceiling or portable fans instead of air conditioners in or next to an open window (so heat can exhaust to the outside).
• Close blinds and curtains during the day to help keep heat out.
• Replace incandescent lighting with fluorescent lights.
• Turn off lights, computers, stereos, televisions, and other electronics when not being used.
• Prepare healthy meals that do not require cooking.
• Shower, run dishwasher, washer and dryer during off-peak hours.
• Dry wet clothes outdoors.
• Avoid using heat producing small appliances (toasters, hair dryers).
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.

Check Environment Canada’s Weather office site for forecasts, radar, warnings, and links to other weather-related information at weather.gc.ca