Weather in BC can be highly variable, often unpredictable, occasionally sudden, and sometimes life-threatening. As droughts continue to impact BC and Alberta, and scientists warn that we can expect more severe storms, longer heatwaves, and increased wildfires (par. 1, 2024), prioritizing emergency preparedness for the summer months cannot be overstated.  

These weather predictions emphasize why it's crucial to have collective strategies and training to protect both our mental and physical health. For effective emergency readiness, we recommend focusing on three key strategies for weather emergencies: 

1. Emergency response planning means clearly planning what to do when extreme weather hits so everyone knows their role. This could involve a workplace or community evacuation plan.  

2. Vulnerability mapping: Understanding which areas are at the most risk helps us focus our resources where they're needed most. Conducting flood risk assessments or heat vulnerability indexes helps inform and guide our resource allocation.  

3. Educational workshops: These workshops teach people how to manage resources effectively and can be helpful when dealing with the aftermath of extreme weather. This could include things such as first aid training or emergency preparedness workshops.  

Severe weather conditions also impact mental health, with psychological distress accompanying socioeconomic challenges. To better prepare for and recover from weather-related emergencies, consider implementing community-based mental health training programs, such as trauma-informed care training or peer support programs. Our mental health webinars, including sessions on healing from trauma, may also help.  

Some other practical strategies could look like: 

• Preparing a personal emergency kit with first aid, food, water, clothing, etc.  

• Utilizing technology by setting up real-time alerts and notifications 

• Staying ready by maintaining your environment and installing early warnings.  

Explore our Extreme Weather page for emergency preparedness, which features safety huddles, e-learning training, and additional resources. Stay informed about your local weather by monitoring provincial dashboards through Climate Change Canada. These dashboards provide access to the latest active alerts by province or territory, alert name, type, and forecast location. For comprehensive hazard mapping tools, data, and additional resources, visit ClimateReady BC.