Snowstorm caught you off guard? Here’s how to be better prepared for the next one
From subzero temperatures to heavy snowfall and icy roads, Canadian winters can present a tough adjustment for those experiencing them for the first time.
With winter already in full effect, it’s essential to be prepared for the next big snowstorm coming your way—and we’re here to help you do just that.
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In this article, we’ll focus specifically on
- How to know when a snowstorm is on its way;
- Picking the best winter weather gear, including jackets, boots, and hand coverings; and
- Smart winter practices for vehicle owners.
Keeping abreast of weather changes
It’s important to check the weather every time you plan to leave the house.
Environment Canada provides up-to-date national forecasts, radar imagery, and official alerts. You can use their app for real-time updates on temperature drops, wind chill, and storm movement.
Pair this with local news and municipal websites, which report on road conditions, transit delays, school closures, and citywide emergency measures. Many municipalities offer text or email alerts you can subscribe to for urgent weather and safety notifications.
Understanding weather terminology is equally important:
Special Weather Statement means unusual conditions—such as snowstorms—are expected but not yet severe; treat it as an early heads-up to prepare.
Weather Watch indicates a snowstorm is unconfirmed but likely based on developing patterns; this is when you should adjust travel plans, charge devices, and prepare your home and vehicle.
Weather Warning means the storm will happen or is already occurring. At this stage, avoid unnecessary travel and follow local safety advisories.
Learning to interpret snowfall amounts is beneficial in guiding decision-making:
| 1–5 cm | 5–15 cm | 15+ cm |
|---|---|---|
| Results in reduced visibility and potentially slippery surfaces, but roads generally remain drivable. | Typically slows traffic significantly, covers walking paths, and causes transit delays or cancellations. | Usually means significant visibility issues due to heavy snow, limited access to services as snow builds up, and dangerous conditions—especially in combination with heavy winds or freezing rain. |
Winter wear – jackets, boots, and hand coverings
Winter storms can produce strong winds, and snowy, slushy conditions—which without the proper gear, can prove very dangerous.
Certain regions across Canada see more severe snowstorms—and temperatures—than others, so factoring in your location can help you decide how heavy duty your winter wear should be.
Jackets: A proper winter jacket is the foundation of your cold-weather wardrobe in Canada. For ultimate protection in the next snowstorm, look for jackets that combine insulation, waterproofing, and wind resistance.
For length, your best bet during a snowstorm is a parka—a fur-lined hooded jacket that can extend to the hips, thighs, and even beyond the knees. They protect a greater part of your body from snow and wind, especially if they are more form-fitting.
Let's also look at the pros and cons of synthetic and down, the two main types of insulation found in jackets, to help you with your jacket selection:
Synthetic: Typically made of raw or recycled polyester.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| - Water-resistant; - Retains warmth even if damp; - Typically more affordable; - Dries quicker; and - Easier to clear and care for. | - Heavier; - Less compressible (bulkier); - Moderate breathability; - Lower warmth-to-weight ratio than down. |
Down: Uses under feathers from ducks and geese.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| - Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio; - Extremely lightweight; - Highly compressible and packs very small; - Very breathable—regulates temperature well; and - Long-lasting if properly cared for. | - Requires careful washing and drying; - More expensive than synthetic; - Sensitive to moisture—can clump and lose insulation if wet; and - Ethical concerns over sourcing (animal welfare). |
Opt for a waterproof jacket if possible, as these are better for braving snowstorms than water-resistant jackets because they form an impenetrable barrier to moisture, effectively keeping you dry from melting snow and preventing heat loss. Here are some things that indicate a jacket is waterproof:
- It is made from waterproof materials such as Gore-Tex or eVent, not just water-resistant materials.
- Seams are fully taped or welded, preventing water from seeping through stitching.
- Zippers are waterproof or covered with storm flaps.
- The outer layer repels water during testing (water beads and rolls off).
- It has a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating.
Boots: Your choice of winter boots can make or break your winter experience, especially during a snowstorm.
For complete protection from wet and snowy conditions, your best bet is to opt for waterproof boots. Snowstorms leave the ground wet and slushy. Compared to water resistant boots, waterproof boots typically feature higher levels of insulation—meaning your feet will be warm and dry even in freezing weather conditions.
Mid-calf or taller boots prevent snow from easily entering, and lace-up closures offer a secure fit; check for removable liners for easier drying. Aim to regularly dry and treat boots to maintain waterproofing and promote longevity.
Check the soles—look for deep treads and slip-resistant soles with good traction for ice and packed snow. You may want to consider selecting boots that are compatible with add-on traction devices in case you need to trek through a particularly severe snowstorm.
Hand coverings: If staying warm is your top priority, you’ll want to opt for (ideally waterproof) mittens. They retain heat better than gloves due to shared finger warmth. Gloves, on the other hand, give better dexterity and control.
Whether you choose mittens or gloves, avoid cotton and opt for wool or synthetic materials that wick moisture. Check for a secure closure at the wrist to keep snow and cold air out—and keep in mind that longer cuffs are better for deep snow or windy conditions.
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Vehicle preparation and winter driving
Canadian winter driving can be challenging, so preparing your vehicle is a must.
If you’re a car owner and haven’t already done so, start by equipping your car with winter tires. These are more effective than all-season or all-weather tires in cold, snowy, and icy conditions. Here’s a few reasons why:
- They have a special rubber compound that helps them retain elasticity below 7°C;
- Winter tire treads have deeper grooves and channels that allow them to more easily bite into slush, snow, and ice—giving you more traction;
- They provide more consistent acceleration and prevent wheel spinning, and reduce braking distance by at least 25% on snowy, wet, and icy roads.
You’ll also want to pack a simple "winter essentials" kit, which at the least should include a snow brush, ice scraper, small shovel, booster cables, flashlight, and a warm blanket. Having extra windshield washer fluid on hand is also beneficial.
Consider carrying rock salt, sand, gravel, or even non-clumping cat litter in your trunk in case you get stuck on ice or packed snow. Putting any of these under your tires will give you traction.
Before you begin driving, let your car idle for at least two to three minutes to warm up your car. This allows the engine to reach its optimal operating temperature and promotes engine oil circulation—while you do so, you can clear your entire car of snow and ice, even from the hood.
Once on the road, drive cautiously and with intention. Apply gradual acceleration, brake sooner, and maintain a greater following distance to compensate for reduced traction. On slippery roads, disable cruise control as it can cause hydroplaning.
Depending on your vehicle’s capabilities and the severity of the snowstorm, consider staying home if conditions are severe.
Severe snowstorm safety tips
Emergency supplies: Stock up on non-perishable food, water, batteries, and a first-aid kit in case you get snowed in.
Heating: Ensure you have a safe, reliable heating source, extra blankets in the home, and know how to safely use backup heaters if needed.
Snow removal tools: Keep shovels, snow blowers, and/or ice melt handy—a de-icing produce (usually salt-based) that helps melt and prevent ice. Having access to the necessary tools will help clear paths safely around your home and prevent injuries.
Home exterior checks: Clear snow from exterior vents, gas meters, and furnace intakes. Blocked vents can shut down heating systems or cause carbon monoxide buildup. Knock down loose snow from hanging roofs to prevent ice sheets from falling.
Visibility safety: Wear something reflective if you absolutely must walk outside during heavy snowfall. During snowstorms, drivers have reduced visibility, especially at dusk and dawn.
Power outage practices: In the case of a power outage caused by a severe snow/ice storm, strive to have a fully changed phone, have portable chargers, and have local emergency numbers saved.
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