On November 26, 2025, Environment and Climate Change Canada unveiled a new colour-coded weather alert system aiming to enhance the understanding of severe weather information across the country. This initiative responds to the escalating frequency and intensity of climate-related hazards in Canada, such as floods, wildfires, heatwaves, blizzards, and hurricanes.
The updated alert framework categorizes alerts into yellow, orange, and red based on the severity of the expected impacts on life, health, and property. This modernization aligns with global standards set by the World Meteorological Organization.
Effective nationwide as of November 26, 2025, the new system ensures that every weather alert, whether a Watch, Advisory, or Warning, is accompanied by a colour code to convey the level of risk and potential damages.
How The New Colour-Coded Alerts Function
Environment and Climate Change Canada’s new system employs three colours – yellow, orange, and red – to signify the anticipated intensity and consequences of weather events. While the alert categories remain the same, the addition of colours provides a quick visual representation of the severity level.
Yellow Alerts: Common and Moderate
- Short-term utility outages
- Broken tree branches
- Localized travel disruptions
- Minor property damage
- Risk of injuries from debris
Orange Alerts: Significant and Disruptive
- Widespread power outages
- Structural damage to buildings
- Trees snapping or uprooting
- Dangerous road conditions
- Increased injury risk due to debris
Red Alerts: Rare and Life-Threatening
- Long-lasting power outages
- Severe structural damage
- Downed hydro poles
- Extensive destruction from fallen trees
- Major transportation shutdowns
- High risk of injury or death
The new system allows Canadians to promptly identify the severity of weather conditions, facilitating better preparedness and response to potential hazards. Meteorologists will use the Alert Colour Matrix, incorporating various data sources and forecasting techniques to issue impact-based alerts tailored to specific community risks.
During multiple simultaneous hazards, the most severe alert will take precedence, ensuring that Canadians are immediately informed of the highest level of threat. This strategic approach enhances the accuracy and effectiveness of weather warnings, guaranteeing that the public receives timely and relevant information.
Previously, the lack of standardized weather alert formats created confusion among Canadians. The introduction of colour-coded alerts streamlines communication and improves the accessibility of critical weather information nationwide.
