What You Need to Know About Canada’s Colourful New Weather Warning System

Canada is getting a vibrant makeover for its weather alerts! Environment and Climate Change Canada has introduced a new standardized colour-coded system designed to make severe weather warnings easier to understand at a glance. Rolling out across the country starting in April 2024, this system uses internationally recognized colours similar to traffic lights, helping Canadians quickly assess risks from storms, floods, heatwaves, and more.

Breaking Down the Colours

The new system features four levels of alerts, each with a distinct colour and clear messaging:

• Green – Weather Advisory: Be aware. Minor inconveniences or low-risk hazards are expected. Prepare basic plans, like for light snow or wind gusts.
• Yellow – Weather Watch: Be prepared. Hazardous weather is possible within the next 24-48 hours. Stock up on essentials and monitor updates.
• Orange – Weather Warning: Take action. Dangerous conditions are imminent or occurring. Secure property, avoid travel if possible, and follow safety instructions.
• Red – Extreme Weather Alert: Seek shelter immediately. Life-threatening conditions are occurring or imminent, such as major tornadoes or extreme flooding.

These alerts will appear on TV, radio, mobile apps, and Environment Canada’s website, complete with icons and bilingual text for clarity.

Why the Change?

Previously, provinces used varying terms like "watch," "warning," or "advisory," which could confuse the public. The new uniform system ensures consistency nationwide, drawing from global standards to boost comprehension and response times. Initial rollout covers key provinces like Newfoundland and Labrador, with full national implementation by year-end.

Real-World Examples

Imagine a yellow snowfall watch for 20-30 cm of snow overnight – time to grab salt and check your shovel. An orange thunderstorm warning means heavy rain and strong winds; stay indoors. And a red extreme heat alert signals temperatures over 40°C with humidity – vulnerable groups should find cooling centers right away.

Stay Safe and Informed

This colourful upgrade empowers Canadians to make smarter decisions during extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change. Download the Alert Ready app, follow Environment Canada on social media, and always heed the colours. Your safety is in the forecast – be ready!