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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the Northern Focus Weather Desk. Data from Environment and Climate Change Canada and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
When severe weather threatens, your first step is to check the latest severe weather warnings for your region and have a plan ready. These events—from violent thunderstorms to blizzards—demand respect, not panic, and knowing what’s coming can keep you safe.
What counts as severe weather in Canada?
Severe weather includes any dangerous meteorological phenomenon that can cause harm to people, property, or infrastructure. Common examples are tornadoes, damaging hail (larger than a toonie), destructive winds over 90 km/h, heavy rainfall leading to flash floods, and major winter storms. Environment and Climate Change Canada issues specific alerts when these conditions are expected, so checking the Canada weather warnings page is a good habit.
How do I prepare for severe weather today or tomorrow?
Start by reviewing the severe weather outlook for your area, which gives a general sense of risk over the next 24 to 48 hours. For immediate threats, look at severe weather warnings today and severe weather tomorrow forecasts. Keep a battery-powered radio handy, secure loose outdoor items, and know the safest room in your home—usually a basement or an interior room without windows. If you’re on the road, severe weather radar can help you track storms in real time and avoid the worst of it.
What should I do if severe weather is near me?
If you receive a warning, act immediately. For tornadoes, go to your safe room and cover your head. For lightning, move indoors and avoid plumbing and electronics. For floods, move to higher ground and never drive through standing water. Always monitor severe weather warnings from official sources, and check our Canada weather hub for regional updates. Knowing severe weather examples in advance—like a derecho or an ice storm—helps you recognize the danger faster.
What is the difference between a watch and a warning?
A watch means conditions are favourable for severe weather to develop; a warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent. Warnings require immediate action, while watches are a signal to stay alert and review your plan.
Can severe weather happen in winter?
Yes. Winter storms can produce blizzard conditions, freezing rain, and extreme cold that are just as dangerous as summer thunderstorms. Heavy snow and ice can knock out power and make travel impossible for days.
Where can I find reliable severe weather radar?
Environment and Climate Change Canada provides free, official radar imagery on its website. Many local news outlets and weather apps also display radar, but always cross-check with government sources for the most accurate severe weather radar data.