In our region of Southern Ontario, the likelihood of a severe storm event is very high. Knowing the risks and how to prepare can reduce the impact on life and property. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) uses a colour-coded warning system to communicate the level of risk posed by weather hazards.
Weather alerts, including watches, advisories and warnings, are assigned a colour when issued. Alert levels progress from yellow to orange to red as the potential risk increases.
In addition to the colour-coded warning system, ECCC is using GPS-targeted polygons to improve severe thunderstorm and tornado alerts. The polygons allow forecasters to more accurately identify a storm's projected path so alerts are sent only to people in the affected area, up to 30 minutes before the storm is expected to arrive.
For the severe storm events most likely to occur in Simcoe Muskoka, listed below are resources and information on how to effectively plan for such events and build resilience.
