Associated with the page Types of emergency situations
High wind warning on November 30 and December 1, 2023
Violent winds are often observed in Quebec. We’re talking about high winds:
- when winds blow at 60 km/h or more for at least 1 hour; and
- when gusts of 90 km/h or more occur.
Take precautions
Cut and collect dead tree branches and cut down dead trees on your property, while complying with municipal by-laws.
Check weather conditions to find out if high-wind warnings are in effect in your region or the area you plan to visit. Keep these warnings in mind when planning your activities.
Be prepared for strong winds
Here are some tips to follow when the weather service announces high winds:
- Outside your home, tie down anything that can blow away to prevent dangerous situations and injuries; and
- Postpone non-essential travel or, if you absolutely must travel, visit the Québec 511 Info Transports website or call 511 to check road conditions.
Proceed with caution in extremely high winds
In the event of extremely high winds or exceptional meteorological phenomena such as tornadoes:
- Unless you receive evacuation instructions from the authorities, take refuge in your home, preferably in the basement, or in a solid building capable of withstanding the force of the wind;
- Evacuate in good time your mobile home or any other shelter that could be blown away by the wind;
- Keep away from doors and windows and turn your back on them;
- Do not use a building elevator;
- If you cannot take shelter in a solid building, take refuge in a ditch or a fold in the ground, lying face down if necessary and protecting your head with your hands; and
- Avoid sheltering under bridges, viaducts or overpasses, where winds are more intense.
In addition, observe the prevention tips and safety rules if high winds cause a power failure, in the event of severe thunderstorms or winter storms.
Follow the authorities’ instructions
When the situation requires it, the authorities issue instructions. Depending on the nature of the danger, the authorities may ask you to take shelter or evacuate your home. Listen to the media in your area to find out what’s going on and what action needs to be taken.
Source and reference for more information: Urgence Québec – High winds
