Severe weather

Southern Quebec Experiences severe weather regularly and you should be prepared. 

If you're stranded at work

While it's a highly unlikely scenario, there is a possibility of being stranded at work due to power failures or transportation disruptions caused by substantial snow, ice, or water accumulations.  In the event you find yourself waiting out a storm at work, please inform Campus Safety and Prevention Services at 514-848-3717

What to do on campus during extreme weather:

For detailed information on what to do during extreme weather conditions, check out emergency preparedness tips from the Red Cross.

During winter, we typically receive advance warnings about approaching storms. The primary hazards associated with severe winter storms include dangerous driving conditions and the potential for prolonged power outages.

• Stay informed by monitoring weather forecasts regularly and concordia.ca for campus closures.
• Whenever possible, refrain from driving or traveling during storms.
• Seek refuge indoors in a warm, dry, and secure environment.
• Ensure an ample supply of non-perishable food that doesn't rely on electricity.

In contrast to winter, severe weather in the summer can strike without warning. The primary risks during the summer months stem from elements such as high winds, hail, lightning, and the potential for prolonged power outages.

• Stay vigilant for sudden changes in weather patterns and stay updated with current weather forecasts and concordia.ca for campus closures.
• Take refuge indoors when storms arise to ensure your safety.
• Ensure an ample supply of non-perishable food items that don't rely on electricity.

Heat warnings are issued in anticipation of elevated temperatures or humidity levels that may pose an increased risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Extreme heat can impact individuals of all ages.

• Drink plenty of water even before you feel thirsty (6 to 8 glasses of water per day);
• Take at least one cool shower or bath per day or cool your skin several times per day with wet towels.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• If you can, spend at least 2 hours a day in an air-conditioned or cool location.
• Limit physical activity.
• Wear light clothes.

Montreal is in an active earthquake zone, and it Is possible that a damaging earthquake could occur on the island.

During an earthquake:

After an earthquake: 

• Do not call Campus Safety and Prevention Services or 911 for information. Only use your phone for emergencies; to report injured or trapped people or to report signs of structural damage.
• If possible, change into sturdy shoes and protective clothing before helping others.
• If you are inside, check the building for structural damage. If you suspect it is unsafe, leave and alert Campus Safety and Prevention Services.
• Do not turn on any switches or light burners until you are certain there isn't a gas leak in your area.
• Do not shut any utilities unless they are damaged or leaking (natural gas leak smells like rotten eggs).
• Do not go near loose or dangling power lines.
• Be prepared for aftershocks.

In all cases, get as close to the ground as possible, protect your head, and watch for flying debris.

If you are in a high-rise building

• If possible, go to the basement or take shelter in a small interior ground-floor room such as a bathroom, closet, or hallway.
• If you are on the upper floors of one of Concordia's larger buildings, protect yourself by taking shelter under a heavy table or desk.
• Do not use the elevator and stay away from windows, outside walls, and doors.

If you are in a gymnasium, an arena, a chapel or an auditorium

• If possible, find shelter in another building. Large buildings with wide-span roofs can collapse during a tornado.
• If you are in one of these buildings and cannot leave, take cover under a sturdy structure such as a table or desk.

After a tornado: 

• If possible, change into sturdy shoes and protective clothing before helping others.
• If you are inside, check the building for structural damage. If you suspect it is unsafe, leave and alert Campus Safety and Prevention Services.
• Do not switch on or off any utilities or light burners until you are certain there isn't a gas leak in your area.
• Do not go near loose or dangling power lines.