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Weather Aware - Weather Prepared!

Winter Travel; Photo: © 1999 PhotoDisc, Inc.

Winter travel calls for extra care even under normal weather conditions. We all know how quickly weather can change and being aware is being prepared! 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. Keep ahead of the storm by listening to the radio and television for the latest weather conditions and warnings. Snow and ice on roadways can reduce tire traction, while vehicle exhaust and ice fog can reduce visibility. Give yourself plenty of time - you may need to travel slower if road conditions are poor.

The best safety precaution to take during severe winter weather conditions is to avoid traveling at all. Even a light snowfall can make the roads slippery. However, if you must drive, keep a well-equipped emergency pack in your car, check weather and road conditions before you leave and let someone know what your travel plans will be. Make sure to contact them again when you arrive, to let them know you are safe. You can monitor weather reports along the way with a Weatheradio, a portable VHF-FM radio that receives weather information and instant weather warnings broadcast by Environment Canada. Weatheradio's can be purchased at local electronic retailers. Weather forecasts and warnings are also available on the Internet at www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca.

Forecasting Your Weather: How a Weather Forecast is Made

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