Volume 8 • 2021 • Issue 4

How to Prepare for a Hailstorm Some facts about hailstorms in Canada • Peak hail season in Canada is from May to October. July is the most active month for hail. • Hailstones can be as small as pebbles and as big as baseballs—but even the smallest hailstones can cause serious damage in just minutes. • Hail can fall at up to 100 km/h. • The Prairies can see as many as 10 hailstorms a year. • Hailstorms are most frequent in Alberta, followed by Ontario. Knowwhen a storm is coming • Check your local weather forecast or Environment Canada for hail warnings. • Also check for thunderstorm warnings because they may include hail. • Download a weather app for severe weather alerts. It can send an alert to your smartphone if hail or other severe weather is headed your way. Protect yourself and your family during a storm If you’re outdoors • Take shelter in a solid building and stay away from windows, glass doors and skylights. • If there is nowhere to take shelter, crouch down and protect your head and neck with your arms. • Hailstorms can be accompanied by lightning, so stay away from tall objects such as large trees, towers, metal fences or poles. Hail is in the forecast—are you ready? Is your home or car vulnerable to damage? While hailstorms are usually short-lived, they can develop quickly and be very destructive. Learn what to do before, during and after a hailstorm so you can be prepared. 38 | 2021 | Issue 4