Backgrounder: Severe Summer Weather in Atlantic Canada

In Atlantic Canada throughout the summer tornadoes, hail, flooding rains, hurricanes, and strong winds threaten our region.

By its very nature, weather is quite chaotic and turbulent. Weather extremes, especially in Canada’s Atlantic Region, are a normal feature of climate. However, scientists predict that with climate change, the frequency and severity of severe weather could increase.

Environment Canada uses a number of tools to detect and warn the public about severe weather. Weather radar has always been one of the most effective means of identifying and monitoring the motion and intensity of severe weather such as thunderstorms. Typical "signatures" have been identified for severe thunderstorms and can provide the key to accurate forecasting.

Severe storms can strike unexpectedly, even with the advanced technology available to meteorologists today. It is vital that people know what to do in a weather emergency, to reduce the risk to personal safety and property.

It is important that people, especially those who are in vulnerable situations such as on the water, stay tuned to the weather for signs of deteriorating conditions, and be prepared to take actions to protect themselves.

Lightning poses a threat with even a weak afternoon thundershower. It’s important to be aware of the weather around you, so you can prepare for the risks summer may bring. Personal safety in thunderstorms is directly related to your awareness of conditions as they develop. In all cases, listen to local media outlets or Weatheradio Canada for weather information and warnings.

A severe thunderstorm watch will be issued to identify large threat areas, with as much lead time as possible. This is usually before thunderstorms have formed but the meteorological conditions are present for such a storm to develop. Persons in affected areas should be on the lookout for storms, and stay tuned for updates throughout the day.

If a severe weather warning is issued for your area, take action - severe weather is occurring or is very likely. Your first priority is to take shelter. If you have time, secure loose outdoor objects, close windows, garages and barn doors. If severe winds develop, go to a basement or small interior room. Stay away from windows, and avoid large open structures such as arenas, malls, gymnasiums, or barns.