Forecasting safety abroad: Advice for Canadians during storm season

From: Global Affairs Canada

News release

June 26, 2024 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

As we enter hurricane season, which usually lasts from June 1 to November 30, Global Affairs Canada is reminding Canadians to be well prepared when travelling or living in areas prone to severe storms during this time.

We urge Canadians to take into consideration the risk of severe weather conditions when planning a trip abroad. Hurricanes, cyclones, monsoons and typhoons can affect many countries and regions.

Whether travelling to or living in an area prone to severe storms, Canadians should:

  • read up on the risk of severe storms or any developing situations through Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories; they can also follow Travel.gc.ca’s X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook channels and monitor local news and weather reports when abroad
  • register their trip with the Registration of Canadians abroad service, which is free and allows the government to contact them in case of a large-scale emergency abroad
  • reach out if they need help; Canadians should carry contact information for the nearest Canadian office serving their location or for Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Canadians should purchase travel insurance and make sure it covers trip cancellation or interruption due to severe weather. They should also check the policies of their airline and tour operators on changes or cancellations in case of a major storm.

Quick facts

  • The last 10 years (2014 to 2023) were active: there were 169 named storms in the Atlantic basin, 77 of which became hurricanes, including 35 major hurricanes (categories 3 to 5). There were 200 named storms in the Eastern Pacific basin, including 105 hurricanes, 61 of which became major hurricanes.

  • It is estimated that approximately 1.1 million Canadians reside in countries prone to severe storms and hurricanes.

  • Nearly 75,000 Canadians in these severe storm and hurricane-prone countries are registered with Global Affairs Canada.

  • Canadians make approximately 32 million annual visits to countries potentially impacted by the hurricane season.

  • Global Affairs Canada has a network of 56 missions (embassies, high commissions, consulates and consular agencies) across these countries to help its nationals.

Associated links

Contacts

Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
Follow us on X (Twitter): @CanadaFP and @TravelGoC
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