Together, we can weather the storm of climate change.

Read this brochure to learn about wind and storms in our region, how they could affect you, and information to help you be prepared.

What are the impacts of extreme storms?

While rain is common in the Cowichan region, storms that bring high winds can cause particular damage. Extreme storms with strong winds can impact our communities in many ways, such as:

• Property damage to buildings and infrastructure
• Power outages impacting basic needs such as heat, light, clean water, refrigeration, etc.
• Blocked roads by downed trees and power lines, limiting access including for emergency services
• Broken communication channels including phone, cable, and internet services
• Storm surge impacts to coastal areas and water-based transportation like ferries
• Impacts to delivery community services such as garbage pick-up, recreation programs, etc.
• Water turbidity from overwhelmed water systems f Public safety hazards from fallen branches or blowing debris
• Environmental impacts including damages to trees, vegetation, and habitat
• Economic impacts including agricultural damage, loss of business and industry opportunity, and recreation and tourism losses f Social and health impacts including stress and mental health concerns
• Accumulations of ice from ice storms can topple trees, utility poles, and be dangerous for the public
• Stormwater systems challenged to manage rapid run-off and stormwater flows
• Costs to clean-up storm damages