Are you prepared? 

The 2022 Atlantic hurricane season is forecast to be active, though not quite as severe as the record-breaking 2020 season. Nonetheless, researchers are predicting 19 named tropical storms, nine hurricanes and as many as four major hurricanes.¹ While not all of these will reach Canada, it’s still important for everyone to be ready for the potential for storms to impact the country.  

On average, one to two tropical storms make landfall in Canada each year and one hurricane makes landfall every other year.² Of course, even storms that don’t directly impact the country can result in heavy rains that cause flooding. In addition to tropical storms, parts of Canada are also at risk for wildfires and tornadoes at this time of year. 

In weather-related emergencies, specially trained OnStar Advisors are available 24/7 to help Members. They can provide driving directions away from the storm, help find resources like fuel or hotel rooms, or connect you to loved ones. You can also push the blue OnStar button to contact Advisors for up-to-date information about the crisis, but if you’re ever in danger, always push your red Emergency button. As a Member, you get Crisis Assist* services as part of the OnStar Safety & Security Plan.* And, if you’re outside of your vehicle, you can use the OnStar Guardian™ app* to contact an Advisor right from your smartphone. 

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season was intense, though less severe than record-setting 2020. The season produced 21 named tropical storms, including seven hurricanes, of which four were classified as major. An average hurricane season includes 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes.³ 

Canada fortunately experienced only limited impacts from Atlantic hurricanes in 2021. Eight named storms entered the Canadian Hurricane Centre’s response zone, with the most notable impact from Hurricane Larry. It made landfall in Newfoundland on September 11, 2021.  

Hurricanes classified as Category 3, 4 or 5 are considered major because their higher wind speeds mean a higher potential for significant damage and loss of lives. With the potential for more severe storms this year, it’s smart to revisit your disaster plans and prepare now. 

The following tips will help you get started:  

• Plan to receive emergency alerts and warnings from multiple sources (TV, radio, phone). 
• Build an emergency kit.
• Help protect yourself and your family by creating a family communications plan.
• Know the risks of your surroundings. Are you in an area at risk for flooding? 
• Create an evacuation plan. Where do you plan to go if you need to evacuate? 
• Make sure your plan accounts for any specific needs for your family. 
• Identify how you can register in your community if your family has specific needs, and then register. 
• Download the Guardian app so you can have access to key OnStar safety services, even when you’re not in your vehicle. 
• Familiarize yourself and your family with the Location Status* feature within the Guardian app so you’ll know how to view and share locations with one another in case you get split up or need to share your whereabouts. 
• Have a plan to care for any pets.
• Know the emergency plans at your work and your children’s schools. 
• Familiarize yourself with how Crisis Assist can help.
• Finally, practise your plan with your family. 
  

Getprepared.gc.ca, part of the emergency preparedness campaign created by Public Safety Canada, offers detailed guidance on how to prepare for severe weather and other disasters. 

1 Colorado State University
2 Canadian Hurricane Centre
3 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration