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Severe Summer Storm

Severe rain and thunderstorms occur during summer months and may include lightning and hail. They may also develop into tornadoes if conditions are right.

Prepare for a severe summer storm

  • Identify where you can take shelter during severe thunderstorms:
  • Shelters should be easily accessible.
  • Shelters should protect you from flooding as well as flying glass, debris and furniture.
  • Prepare a survival kit.
  • Talk to your family about what everyone should do if a severe thunderstorm occurs.
  • Ensure valuables, important papers, and cherished items are not located in areas that may be flooded during a storm.

Stay safe during severe summer storm

If you are at home:

  • Turn on your battery-powered radio and listen for updates. Usually Environment Canada  will issue a severe thunderstorm warning which will be broadcasted on local radio and television stations. When a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, stay alert and listen for further weather updates in case the storm produces tornadoes.
  • If time permits, secure anything that might be torn loose or blown away.
  • Ensure your children, pets, and vehicles are inside.
  • Close windows and shut outside doors. Stay away from windows as they could be broken by hail.
  • If possible, unplug electrical appliances.
  • Do not use the phone or other electrical equipment.
  • Stay away from anything that may conduct an electrical charge like sinks, metal pipes, stoves, radiators, and fireplaces.

If you are at work or in a public building:

  • Stay away from windows as they could be broken by hail.
  • Avoid using the telephone or other items that may conduct an electrical charge.

If you are outside:

  • Get off bicycles, motorcycles and tractors.
  • If swimming or in a boat, get back to shore immediately.
  • Stay away from telephone and power lines, fences, trees and hilltops.
  • Seek shelter if possible. NEVER seek shelter under a tree.
  • If you are caught in the open, crouch down with your feet close together and your head down (i.e., “leap-frog” position).
  • Don't lie flat on the ground; by minimizing your contact with the ground, you reduce the risk of being electrocuted if a lightning bolt strikes the ground.

If you are driving:

  • Stop the car and stay in it.
    • Do not stop near trees or power lines that could fall.
    • Do not stop in low-lying areas where flash floods could occur.

After a severe summer storm

  • Wait at least 30 minutes before resuming any outdoor activities or using any electrical appliances.
  • If you can, help anyone who is injured. If you are injured, seek medical help.
  • Only use the telephone if you need immediate emergency assistance. Emergency crews may need all available lines.
  • Listen to local radio and television stations for updates and instructions.