How to Prepare for Extreme Weather Events
Prepare for Extreme Weather Events
Periods of drought are expected as the climate warms.
- Landscape with drought-tolerant species, native plants and grasses
- Rain barrels to store water in advance
The number of summer days that exceed 30oC are on the rise and summer nights may feel more tropical. Heat can be very uncomfortable and amplify existing health conditions. Take steps to keep yourself cool and to cool your home, too.
- Access to air-conditioning, at home or in public spaces
- Awnings to shade the hot sun
- Carry drinking water when away from home
- Green roofs can help to insulate your home or building
- Home insulation
- Shade trees and shrubs provide a cooling effect
- Window shades
- Check on senior or ill neighbours to ensure their safety and comfort
Prepare your home to handle high-volume downpours of rain.
- Eaves troughs should be cleaned out and drain water away from your foundation
- Lot grading away from home to keep your basement dry
- Ensure sewage backwater valves are installed and working properly
- Sump pumps in working order
- Place valuables in waterproof containers (if in basement)
- Visit Epcor for information about flood preparation
Prepare your home to handle damaging winds.
- Prune weak trees
- Secure items that could be picked up by wind
- Secure outdoor furniture
Winter is warming at a faster rate than other seasons. Expect cold to be interrupted by warmer weather, making surfaces icy and slippery. Prepare for power interruptions from ice storms.
- Back-up power/solar/batteries / keep cell phones charged
- Emergency food and water, blanket and supplies for long-term “shelter-in-place”
- Portable solar phone charger and crank-up flashlight and radio
- Prepare for power outages
- Sand/ice cleats for traction
Drier temperatures and lightning storms can increase the chances of fires, especially in the surrounding forests. Smoky air can drift into Edmonton and linger for days. An Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) number between 4 and 6 can indicate that the air quality poses a moderate risk to one’s health. The health risk becomes higher as the number increases.
- Check the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI)
- Learn how to protect yourself from poor air quality
- In the event of fire smoke conditions make sure you have home air filters and/or access to a clean-air shelter
- Fireproof the outside of your home