Storm surges can occur in all coastal regions. They can also happen in large lakes, such as the Great Lakes. A storm surges consists of very high waves and high water levels provoked by wind and air pressure. It often causes floods in coastal regions. A storm surge can occur in any moment during the year and can be particularly damaging during the winter, when the water is frozen.

Facts on storm surges

• A storm surge is provoked by an abnormal elevation above water level and can often accompany hurricanes, violent winds or very violent winter storms.
• A storm surge it itself is provoked by wind and air pressure that "pushes" the water toward the coasts, often resulting in big waves and floods.
• Not to confuse with tsunamis that are caused by an earthquake or landslide.
• If you are stuck near a shoreline during a storm surge, this can put your life at risk.

Listen for storm surges warnings

• If there’s a potential storm surge on your region, the meteorological services will issue warnings.
• In such a case, a notice is emitted up to 48 hours in advance to inform the public of possible high levels of water and high waves along with coastal flooding.

Preparing for a storm surge

• Check your house and your land in order to determine if flooding is possible. Spot vulnerable elements and take corrective measures.
• Sandbags can be a great way to prevent water from entering your home. But before resorting to this solution, you must obtain specific instructions from local emergency operations officials.
• Know how to interrupt gas and electricity supply in your house. It is possible that local authorities ask you to do so.
• If you live in an area with flood risks, do not put away your important documents in the basement, but in upper floors to protect them from the water.
• Make sure your family has an emergency kit and plan.
• Make sure your emergency kit can be carried in a back-pack or suitcase with wheels.
• Your local ambulance chapter can explain first-aid and CPR to you. Your local Red-Cross can teach you can teach you survival techniques in the water through their swimming and boating formation courses.

If a storm surge is forecast

• Make sure you have necessary supplies, especially medicines, a radio, flashlight and batteries.
• You could be evacuated. Make sure to have your emergency kit at hand in a portable container, like a back-pack, duffel bag or suitcase with wheels.
• Make sure that windows in the basement are closed.
• Fuel your car. If it is necessary to evacuate the area, it will be difficult to stop on your way out.
• If you have questions or would like to know more about evacuation procedures, communicate with your local emergency management organization, or police or fire department.

What to do during a storm surge

• Stay inside to protect yourself from water. It is better to stay on the side of the house protected from the wind and to stay away from windows.
• Check the storm progression and watch out for warnings and instructions emitted by local authorities.
• Before taking your car, listen carefully to the instructions given by rescue officials coordinating evacuation plans.
• Do not drive through flood waters.
• Be aware of risks such as hypothermia from cold water or drowning from running water.