SnowStorms A Yellow Snow Squall Warning indicates a low to moderate risk of hazardous travel caused by brief periods of heavy snowfall, blowing snow, or reduced visibility. While impacts are generally localized, drivers should be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions.
A yellow Air Quality Warning indicates a moderate health risk, typically corresponding to an AQHI rating of 4 to 6. While most people can continue their normal activities, individuals who are more sensitive to air pollution may wish to reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity.
What Is a Winter Storm Watch? A Winter Storm Watch means conditions are favourable for a significant winter storm to develop within the next 48 hours. While the storm is not certain to occur, there is enough potential for hazardous winter weather that people should begin preparing. A Winter Storm Watch may be issued when … Read more
What Is a Tornado Watch? A Tornado Watch means conditions are favourable for the development of tornadoes in or near the watch area. While a tornado has not been confirmed, the atmosphere is capable of producing one, often alongside severe thunderstorms. A Tornado Watch gives people time to prepare, review their emergency plan, and monitor … Read more
What Is a Severe Thunderstorm Watch? A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms in or near the watch area. While severe weather has not yet been confirmed, storms capable of producing damaging winds, large hail, heavy rainfall, or tornadoes may develop. A watch is issued to give people … Read more
What Is a Hurricane Watch? A Hurricane Watch means hurricane conditions are possible within the next 48 hours. It is issued when a tropical cyclone could bring destructive winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, and dangerous coastal conditions to an area. A Hurricane Watch is not a confirmation that a hurricane will strike. Instead, it gives … Read more
An Orange Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada when severe thunderstorms are occurring or expected to cause major impacts. These storms can produce damaging winds, large hail, heavy rainfall and dangerous flooding. Orange warnings indicate a heightened risk of significant property damage, power outages and travel disruptions.
A yellow blizzard warning in Canada means blizzard conditions are expected to cause moderate, localized or short-term impacts. Strong winds combined with falling or blowing snow can significantly reduce visibility and create hazardous travel conditions. Although yellow is the lowest level in Canada’s colour-coded weather alert system, a yellow blizzard warning should still be taken … Read more
A yellow freezing rain warning in Canada means freezing rain is expected to create hazardous conditions and moderate, localized or short-term impacts. Rain that freezes on contact with cold surfaces can cause ice to accumulate on roads, sidewalks, trees and other exposed surfaces. Even small amounts of ice can make driving and walking dangerous. Depending … Read more
A yellow rainfall warning in Canada means heavy or prolonged rain may cause moderate, localized or short-term impacts. Potential conditions can include localized flooding, difficult travel and disruptions to outdoor activities or transportation. The severity of the impacts depends on rainfall amounts, duration, ground conditions and location. This guide explains what a yellow rainfall warning … Read more