Emergency Alerts
During a large-scale emergency you may receive communications and/or notifications as it relates to the event. Based on the nature of the event, the alert will inform you on what the emergency is, where it is, what to do, and where to go.
Here is a breakdown of what those notifications might mean:
Evacuation Alert: This is a heads up that an evacuation order may be coming. It’s an opportunity to begin evacuation preparation, such as packing, communicating with family, planning routes out of your neighborhood, and potentially loading your vehicle.
Shelter-In-Place: Depending on the nature of the emergency, sometimes it is safer to stay inside, or if you are not home, seek shelter immediately. The notification for this type of action will include instructions on what to do and where the safest areas of the building might be. For example: In the event of severe weather, it might tell you to find a central spot in your home and stay away from windows and doors.
Sources of alerts, information, and communication:
- Alberta Emergency Alert (Alert Ready) – website and social media
- Parkland County - Website and Social Media
- Alberta 511 - Website
Tornado Watches and Warnings: What's the Difference?
With severe weather common during Alberta's storm season, understanding the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning can help you respond quickly and safely.
Tornado Watch
A Tornado Watch is issued when weather conditions are favourable for the development of tornadoes. Watches are intended to increase public awareness of potentially hazardous weather and often serve as a lead-up to a warning. The watch area is typically large.
- Stay aware of changing weather conditions
- Monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada
- Download and monitor the Alberta Emergency Alert app
- Review your emergency plan and identify where you would take shelter if conditions worsen
- Be prepared to move indoors quickly if a warning is issued
A tornado watch does not mean a tornado is occurring, but it does mean conditions are capable of producing one.
Tornado Warning
A Tornado Warning is issued when a tornado has been detected, is imminent, or is already occurring. Warnings indicate an immediate threat and require prompt action to protect yourself and others.
If a tornado warning is issued for your area:
- Go indoors to a room on the lowest floor, away from outside walls and windows, such as a basement, bathroom, stairwell or interior closet
- Leave mobile homes, vehicles, tents, trailers and other temporary or free-standing shelter, and move to a strong building if you can
- As a last resort, lie in a low spot and protect your head from flying debris
Be prepared for severe weather. If you hear a roaring sound or see a funnel cloud, swirling debris near the ground, flying debris, or any threatening weather approaching, take cover immediately. When out on the water, be prepared for severe weather. If threatening weather approaches make for shore and take shelter immediately. It is particularly dangerous to be on a small craft on the open water when lightning is occurring.
