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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the Canada Scope Weather Desk. Data from Environment and Climate Change Canada and other national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
Extreme weather describes severe or unseasonable atmospheric events that fall outside historical norms. In Canada, this includes heat waves, blizzards, ice storms, and tornadoes. The live forecast above shows current conditions; knowing your region’s risks helps you prepare safely.
What causes extreme weather?
Extreme weather results from complex interactions in the climate system. A persistent high-pressure ridge can trap hot air, causing a heat wave, while a sharp temperature contrast between air masses fuels severe thunderstorms. Climate change amplifies many of these patterns, making extreme weather examples more frequent and intense—a trend visible in recent extreme weather events recently studied by Environment and Climate Change Canada.
How do I stay informed about extreme weather today?
For real-time alerts, use a dedicated extreme weather website such as the Government of Canada’s weather alerts page or The Weather Network. Check your local forecast on our Canada weather hub for city-specific updates—for instance, Toronto Weather or Calgary Weather. Bookmark the Weather Warning page for immediate notifications.
How is extreme weather different from normal weather?
Normal weather stays within typical seasonal ranges. Extreme weather exceeds historical thresholds—for example, a temperature 10°C above the average—and often poses risks to safety, infrastructure, or ecosystems.
What should I do during an extreme heat event?
Stay indoors in air conditioning, drink water, avoid strenuous activity, and check on vulnerable neighbours. Follow Environment Canada’s heat alert guidance. For more, see Ottawa Weather for local heat-warning protocols.
Are extreme weather events in history becoming more common?
Yes. Data from Environment and Climate Change Canada shows that what causes extreme weather—like blocking patterns and warmer oceans—is occurring more often, leading to a rise in extreme weather events recently compared to past decades.