Extreme Wind

Wind Warnings

Wind storms, although infrequent, do occur along the west coast. Wind storms can also be accompanied by heavy rains adding to the potential impact on local neighbourhoods.

Environment Canada provides wind warnings for coastal regions when wind sustained wind speeds reach 65 km/h, or gusts of 90km/h are fore casted. Winds at these speeds are capable of breaking small branches and even uprooting or breaking entire trees causing power outages and blocking roads.

Extreme caution is needed if you are driving or find yourself outside in a windstorm. It is important to drive cautiously and find shelter before conditions begin to worsen.


How to Prepare

  • Review Before an Emergency for general information on how to prepare.
  • Build or restock your Emergency Preparedness Kit.
  • Secure everything that might be blown around or torn loose. Flying objects such as garbage cans and lawn furniture can injure people and damage property.
  • Trim dead branches and cut down dead trees to reduce the danger of these falling onto your house during a storm.

During a Wind Storm

  • Stay off the roads if possible. If you must drive, be aware of fallen debris and traffic signals that have lost power.
  • Report power outages to BC Hydro by calling 1-888-POWERON (1-888-769-3766).
  • Fallen trees, branches and other debris on municipal property can be reported at 604-463-9581.
  • Do not go down to the water to watch the storm. Most people who are killed during hurricanes are caught in large waves, storm surges or flood waters.
  • If lightning is present, remember that you can use a cellular telephone during a severe storm, but, it's not safe to use a land-line telephone.

After a Wind Storm

  • Check your property for damage and clear away debris from rain gutters and storm drains.
  • Even though the wind has stopped, broken branches may hang dangerously overhead. Be cautious and look up for hazards.
  • Stay away from power lines on the ground.