Blizzards

Environment Canada classifies severe winter storms as a blizzard when the following weather conditions last more than 4 hours:

• snow or blowing snow with winds of 40 km/hr or more
• snow or blowing snow reducing visibility to less than 1 km
• windchill of -25 C or colder

Since severe winter weather can hit suddenly, it’s important to prepare in advance.

Prepare for a blizzard or severe winter storm

• Winterize your home and vehicle before the cold weather arrives.
• Prepare a survival kit for your home.
• Prepare an emergency car kit for your vehicle.
• Get into the habit of dressing appropriately for the weather as well as checking forecasts and road conditions before going outside.
• If travelling on the road in winter:
• • keep your vehicle in good condition and drive with snow tires or chains
  • keep your gas tank full
  • inform someone of your route and expected time of arrival
  • travel during daylight hours
  • listen to the radio for weather updates

Stay safe during a blizzard or severe winter storm

If you are at home:

• Stay there and wait out the storm indoors.
• DO NOT travel outside unless it is urgent.
• Turn on your radio or television to listen for weather updates.
• Have batteries and flashlights ready in case of a power failure.
• Ensure your children and pets remain inside.
• Watch and respond to potential fire hazards from overheated furnaces, heaters, fireplaces or stoves.

If you are at work or in a public building:

• Stay calm and follow any instructions given to you.
• Follow these tips if you are asked to Shelter in Place.

If you are outside:

• Get indoors as soon as possible. Whiteout conditions can disorient you; high windchills may result in frostbite or hypothermia.

If you are driving:

• Turn back or seek refuge if conditions deteriorate.
• If you're stranded in your vehicle during a blizzard:
• • Raise the hood of your vehicle as a distress signal.
  • Use supplies in your car kit to keep warm and dry. Eat high-energy foods.
  • Stay in your vehicle and wait for emergency personnel to arrive.
  • Turn emergency flashers on. 
  • If possible, run your vehicle for a few minutes every hour to keep the interior warm. Check the exhaust pipe frequently and clear snow away to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. 
  • If you can’t run your vehicle, light a candle to keep warm.
  • Open a window slightly on the sheltered side (away from the wind) for ventilation. 
  • Stimulate circulation by moving your arms, hands, and feet.
  • Don’t fall asleep.

After a blizzard

• Listen to local radio and television stations for updates and instructions.
• Use caution as you shovel snow after the storm, as it is extremely hard work and can trigger heart attacks in some people.
• Only travel if absolutely necessary; roads may be in poor condition, icy, or blocked with snow drifts.
• Only use the telephone if necessary. Emergency crews may need all available lines.