Thunderstorms, lightning and hail
Thunderstorms are often accompanied by high winds, hail, lightning, heavy rain and in rare cases can produce tornadoes. Hail is formed when updrafts in thunderclouds carry raindrops upward into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere, where they freeze and merge into lumps of ice.
Thunderstorms, lightning and hail:
- Thunderstorms and lightning occur throughout Canada but less frequently in the North. On average, 10 people die each year in Canada and up to 160 are injured during such storms.
- Thunderstorms are usually over within an hour, although a series of thunderstorms can last several hours.
- Hailstorms occur across Canada, mostly from May to October. They are most frequent in Alberta, the southern Prairies and in southern Ontario.
- Some hailstones are the size of peas while others can be as big as grapefruits.
- Hail comes down at great speed, especially when accompanied by high winds and can cause serious injuries and damages.
For more information and how to be prepared, continue reading at https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/pblctns/svrstrms-wtd/index-en.aspx#s7 (Get Prepared Canada Site)
- If a severe storm is forecast, secure everything that might be blown around or torn loose – indoors and outdoors. Flying objects such as garbage cans and lawn furniture can injure people and damage property.
- If you are indoors, stay away from windows, doors and fireplaces.
- You may want to go to the sheltered area that you and your family chose for your emergency plan.
- If you are advised by officials to evacuate, do so. Take your emergency kit with you.
- You can use a cellular telephone during a severe storm, but it’s not safe to use a land-line telephone.
- Never go out in a boat during a storm. If you are on the water and you see bad weather approaching, head for shore immediately. Always check the marine forecast before leaving for a day of boating and listen to weather reports during your cruise.
- If you are in a car, stop the car away from trees or power lines that might fall on you). Stay there.