Weatheradio is Canada's first-class warning delivery service

Weatheradio is a network of radio transmitters stretching from the Gulf of Mexico into Canada’s Arctic and from Newfoundland to Vancouver Island.  These transmitters provide continuous broadcasts of weather information and instant updates when weather threatens. 

Weatheradio Canada is operated by Environment Canada's Meteorological Service and broadcasts weather and environmental information 24 hours a day in both official languages on 7 dedicated frequencies within the VHF public service band.  This permits the transmission of a tone and Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) codes ahead of a warning message that will activate the Weatheradio receiver and alert you to an incoming important message. 

Over 90 percent of Canadians can access a Weatheradio signal, and recent technological advances make it possible for listeners to program Weatheradio receivers to deliver only certain types of warnings for their specific locations.

Weatheradio Receivers

A basic Weatheradio receiver uses warning tones as the trigger that activates the alarm features. Users who purchase a basic Weatheradio will receive the weather audio broadcast and will also be alerted to severe weather warnings, for events like tornadoes and severe thunderstorms.  

The enhanced Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) capable Weatheradio receivers use digital SAME codes as the trigger that activates the alarm features.  Users who own or purchase a SAME-capable Weatheradio will be able to receive the full suite of weather and non-weather related emergency messages which include watches, warnings and advisories.  In addition, they will be able to access the full functionality of the warning device unit, with features like the ability to pre-select which warnings to receive, and for which region(s).

To find your nearest transmitter site, check the Weatheradio stations page.

Who should own a Weatheradio receiver?

A Weatheradio receiver is not just for emergencies. It's a dependable, constant source of weather information that will help you plan daily activities.  Commuters, truck drivers, farmers, fishing crews, construction managers and Canadians everywhere can rely on Weatheradio's timely, accurate forecasts.

Weatheradio receivers should be standard equipment in:

• Hospitals
• Schools
• Marinas
• Dispatch Offices
• Manufacturing plants
• Campgrounds
• Homes