Air / Meteorology

Winter Travel And Weather Awareness

Winter travel calls for extra care even under normal weather conditions. Effects of severe winter weather can last much longer than the event. High wind chills, heavy snowfall, freezing rain, blizzards and extremely cold temperatures are all part of the hazards of winter storms. Snow and ice on roadways can reduce tire traction, while vehicle exhaust and ice fog can reduce visibility.

The best safety precaution to take during severe winter weather conditions is to avoid traveling at all. However, if you must drive, be aware and be prepared. Listen to Environment Canada's weather forecasts and the various watch and warning bulletins before you decide whether it is safe to travel. Also, make sure to check the forecast to see what is happening en route and at your planned destination when you are scheduled to arrive.

Environment Canada uses a specific set of criteria for issuing severe weather watches and warnings.

• Winter Storm Watch - Winter Storm Watches are issued when conditions are favourable for the development of severe winter weather such as: a Blizzard, Heavy Snowfall, Winter Storm, Freezing Rain, or possible future Weather Warning.
• Winter Storm Warning - Winter Storm Warnings are issued where there is a combination of weather elements that produce the weather related hazard.
• Blizzard Warning - Blizzard warnings are issued when certain combinations of cold temperatures, strong winds and reduced visibility are met simultaneously for a specified length of time.
• Wind Chill Warning - Wind Chill Warnings are issued when wind combined with very cold temperatures will create outdoor conditions hazardous to human activity.

Forecasting Your Weather: How a Weather Forecast is Made

Learn how a weather forecast is made, with David Phillips, Climatologist.