Type
News & Notice
A tornado watch has been issued for Newmarket by Environment Canada for the afternoon and evening of June 13.
Current weather conditions of severe thunderstorms are favourable and can cause tornadoes with strong winds - gusts up to 110 km/h, large hail and heavy rainfall may occur.
In the event of a tornado, or if a tornado warning is issued for your area, it is recommended you take the following precautions:
- 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 possible.
Central York Fire Services also advises in the event of a tornado, keep these tips in mind:
- If you are in a building, go to a pre-designated shelter area, such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level.
- Stay away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Layers of clothes, even a mattress, can be pulled over your head to protect you from flying debris. Do not open windows.
- If you are in a vehicle, trailer, or mobile home, get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a nearby, sturdy building or storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes.
- If you are outside with no shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands.
- Be aware of the potential for flooding. Do not get under an overpass or a bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location. Watch out for flying debris, which is the cause of most fatalities and injuries during tornadoes.
Remember:
- Never try to outrun a tornado in an urban or congested area in a car or truck. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately for safer shelter.
- Stay out of damaged buildings.
- Stay clear of downed power lines.
- Please exercise extreme caution around all bodies of water, including the Holland River and Fairy Lake during inclement weather. Remind children to not play near bodies of water and always keep pets on a leash to ensure their safety.
For more safety tips visit cyfs.ca