|
Home   Programs Emergency management Emergency preparedness Guides Preparing for emergencies Natural disasters Storm surges
A storm surge involves an abnormal rise in water levels and can often accompany very intense winter storms, hurricanes or high winds. The storm surge itself is caused by the wind and pressure "pushing" the water onto the shore. On exposed coastlines, this can often result in high waves. Getting caught near the shoreline during flooding could be life-threatening. It is important to take measures to protect yourself and your property. Storm surges can happen quickly, without allowing much time for preparation. Residents, particularly those living in low-lying areas near the coastline, should prepare in advance.
Learn more
Listen for warnings  If a storm surge has the potential to affect your region, the Meteorological Service of Canada will issue warnings. Statements informing the public of the potential for high surf, high water levels and coastal flooding are issued up to 48 hours in advance of any anticipated storm surge. If forecasters anticipate a large storm surge, they will also issue a public weather warning. However, the effects of storm surges can vary, making it difficult to provide warnings that are specific to each local area. For example, a 60-centimetre rise in sea levels may not be significant in one area but, depending on tide heights, may be high enough to cause significant damage in other areas. 
Preparing for a storm surge  - Find out if your home is vulnerable to damage from storm surges. Have you or your neighbours experienced coastal flooding in the past? If so, check your house and land for any potential dangers related to flooding.
- Sandbags are a valuable tool to prevent water from entering your home. This approach requires specific instructions from your local emergency officials.
- It is important to know how to turn off the gas and electricity in your house because you may be instructed by local authorities to shut these off.
- If you live in an area that is subject to flooding, do not store your important documents in the basement. Keep them at a higher level, protected from flood damage.
- Ensure that your family has an emergency kit and plan.
Storm surges can happen at any time. If you live in an area that is susceptible to storm surges and coastal flooding, listening regularly to marine or public forecasts can be helpful since they will predict when water levels in certain areas will be higher than normal. If a storm surge is forecast: - Check supplies including medications, radio and flashlight batteries.
- Make sure the basement windows are closed.
- Fuel your car. If evacuation becomes necessary, it will be hard to stop for gas.
During a storm surge  - Should a storm surge occur, stay inside where you are protected from the water. It’s best to be on the downwind side of the house, away from windows.
- If you are not all in the same location, keep in touch frequently with family members.
- Monitor the storm's progress and listen for warnings or instructions from local officials.
- Flood waters can be dangerous to drive through. Before driving anywhere, it is best to listen carefully to rescue officials who will be coordinating evacuation plans.
- Be aware of risks such as hypothermia from cold water or drowning from running water. Your local chapter of St. John Ambulance
 or Red Cross can provide more information on how to prevent these problems. - See also: After any emergency
|
Printable version
Send this page
