Severe Weather
What Is severe weather?
On This Page
Tornadoes + SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
Tornado WATCH
- Environment Canada declares a Tornado WATCH when weather conditions are favourable for the development of a tornado.
- Monitor the Environment Canada website and local news channels.
- If you see signs of an approaching storm, take shelter immediately.
Tornado WARNING
Environment Canada issues a Tornado WARNING when a funnel cloud or tornado is indicated on weather radar or has been sighted.
- Take shelter in a basement or small interior ground floor room. Avoid large rooms such as gymnasiums or auditoriums.
- Stay away from windows and outside walls. Do not use elevators.
- Monitor the Environment Canada website and local news channels.
- Monitor the U of A website for emergency instructions.
- Remain where you are until the warning ends.
Blizzards + extreme cold
A blizzard is a winter storm with high winds, cold temperatures, and poor visibility.
In case of a blizzard or extreme cold warning
- Monitor the Environment Canada website and local news channels.
- Monitor the U of A website for emergency instructions or notices, such as class or exam cancellations.
- Stay safe during your commute: take public transit where possible, carry your cell phone, and wear layers of lightweight, warm clothing. Dress warmly, especially on your head and hands.
- In wide-open areas, visibility can be virtually zero during heavy blowing snow or a blizzard. If you must travel off-campus during a winter storm, do so during the day and let someone know your route and arrival time.
- If you are unable to get to work or class safely, contact your supervisor or instructor.
Smoke + poor air quality
It is important to be aware of the potential health concerns associated with poor air quality and take steps to reduce your exposure. Common causes of poor outdoor air quality include industrial processes, pollution trapped by atmospheric inversions, and wildfire smoke.
During an Outdoor Air Quality Event
At high and very high air quality health index (AQHI) levels, consider reducing or avoiding strenuous activities outdoors depending on your risk level.
Stop or reduce your activity level if breathing becomes uncomfortable or you feel unwell.
Review detailed guidance and precautions from Alberta Health Services and Environment Canada.
Close windows and doors to maintain indoor air quality.
Extreme heat
Extreme heat can lead to heat-related emergencies such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
During extreme heat conditions
- Drink more water
- Consider rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day
- Take breaks from the heat by spending time in cooled indoor or shaded spaces
- Watch for symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion (heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headaches, diarrhea, muscle cramps, partial or full loss of consciousness, weakness and fatigue, confusion, and exhaustion)
- If you or someone around you is in need of assistance, contact U of A Protective Services at 780‑492‑5050
Guidance for Campus Activity Managers + Supervisors
Depending on the current situation, campus activity managers should reschedule or consider rescheduling outdoor activities that require a higher level of physical effort or where severe weather might create increased risk.
Supervisors may need to implement controls for work that is going to be conducted outdoors for extended periods to ensure it can be conducted safely.
Additional Resources: