Environment and Climate Change Canada has made some changes to its weather alert system.
A new colour-coded system has been launched to better alert people about severe weather in and around their communities.
The new tri-colour system replaces an old model that had just two colours, yellow and red, to indicate watches and warnings respectively.
Now orange has been added.
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The national weather agency said under the new model, advisories, watches and warnings will still be issued, but with a colour to indicate the potential impact and seriousness of the weather event.
Yellow alert:
Hazardous weather may cause damage, disruption, or health impacts
Impacts are moderate, localized and/or short-term
Yellow alerts are the most common
Orange Alert:
Severe weather is likely to cause significant damage, disruption, or health impacts
Impacts are major, widespread and/or may last a few days
Orange alerts are uncommon
Red Alert:
Very dangerous and possibly life-threatening weather will cause extreme damage and disruption
Impacts are extensive, widespread, and prolonged
Red alerts are rare
“We continue to experience more frequent and extreme weather in Canada, which makes it more important than ever for Canadians to have access to clear, accurate, and easy-to-understand weather alerts," said Minister of Environment and Climate Change Julie Dabrusin in a news release. "By improving how severe weather is reported, we are helping Canadians better understand and prepare for potential impacts, so they can make informed decisions about how and when to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their property.”
Environment Canada said no matter the colour associated with the weather alert, residents should always read the full weather alert text, which may also include actions to take to keep safe during severe weather.
