Climate adaptation

Climate adaptation means planning for and working to withstand the anticipated impacts of climate change. Climate change is already causing impacts such as warmer temperatures, more frequent and severe storm events, increased drought, a warmer and rising sea, among others.

Adaptation helps us build resilience by increasing our capacity to respond to climate-related impacts and disruptions. 

The municipality is addressing the need for adaptation by collaborating with Clean Foundation on resilient home retrofits, implementing a green infrastructure approach for Shore Road in Eastern Passage and by engaging with communities.

To learn about other local solutions, check out our resource on nature-based solutions for managing water on your property.

Preparing for extreme weather and climate change impacts

Winter storms

Winter storms usually occur between December and March. Winter storms include snow, freezing rain, high winds and cold temperatures. The snow, ice and cold can be challenging, especially if you aren't used to it, and these conditions can put people at risk of injury or harm.

Extreme heat

Extreme heat events occur during the summertime (usually between July and September), when temperatures are high during the day and night for several days. People are at risk of overheating during an extreme heat event. Temperatures can be hotter in tall structures (like apartment and office towers) and in direct sunlight.

Hurricane and tropical storms

From June through November each year, Halifax is on the path of hurricanes traveling up the East Coast of North America. These storms can be powerful and destructive, with high winds, heavy rainfall, flooding and coastal storm surge. People can be at risk during these weather events.

Download the full guide

• Preparing for Extreme Weather and Climate Change Impacts (ARABIC)
• Preparing for Extreme Weather and Climate Change Impacts (ENGLISH)
• Preparing for Extreme Weather and Climate Change Impacts (FRENCH)
• Preparing for Extreme Weather and Climate Change Impacts (KISWAHILI)
• Preparing for Extreme Weather and Climate Change Impacts (UKRAINIAN)

Protecting homes from climate impacts

The documents included below offer helpful tips on how to prepare your home for extreme heat, wildfires and severe weather events.

These guides were created by many organizations coming together to ensure that frontline communities are informed about climate impacts and equipped with tools to make them more resilient.

Learn more about emergency preparedness

For municipal emergency alerts and notifications, register at: 
halifax.ca/hfxalert

Follow storm warnings and weather alerts at Environment Canada:
https://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/ns-19_metric_e.html

More information to help you prepare:
halifax.ca/emergency-preparedness