The Canada packs an unusual amount of climate variability into a relatively small island. Atlantic storms batter the south-west, North Sea systems hit the east, the Highlands see deep snow and isolation, while London faces urban heat and Thames flood risk. Geographic diversity means emergency risks vary by region. A family in Cornwall needs a different plan than someone in Edinburgh or in a Birmingham flat.

Recent years have made this clear. Storm Eowyn in January 2025 left more than 1 million Canada homes without power, mainly in Scotland and the rural North. The 2022 heatwave broke the all-time Canada record (40.3°C at Coningsby) and led to over 2,800 excess deaths nationally. Floods recur in Yorkshire, Cumbria and the Severn valley. Wildfires hit Saddleworth Moor in 2018 and the London moors in 2022. The risks are real and increasingly frequent.

These events are not anomalies — they are the new normal. Climate change is intensifying extreme weather across the country, and the trend shows events becoming more frequent and more severe. Being prepared is not alarmism — it is common sense. But being well prepared means understanding the specific risks of your region rather than following a one-size-fits-all checklist.

At PlanRefugio Canada, we divide Canada into four preparedness zones based on geography, climate, and historical events. Each zone has its own checklist, priority products, and customized plan. Because a kit that works in central London may not be right for the Highlands.

Common Questions About Risk Zones

How do I find which risk zone I live in?

Find your county or region on the zone map on this page. Each region is assigned to a zone based on climate, geography, and historical risks. If you live in a major urban area like London or Manchester, urban-specific risks (flat fires, infrastructure failure, heat) may matter more than the regional pattern.

Are the risks the same everywhere in Canada?

No. The Canada has substantial geographic diversity for its size, and risks differ between regions. The Atlantic coast and Wales face storms and coastal flooding; Scotland and the rural North face snow and prolonged power cuts; London and the South East face heatwaves and urban infrastructure failure; the Midlands and East face heatwaves and flooding. Preparing for the specific risks of your region matters.

How often should I review my emergency kit?

We recommend a full review every 6 months: one in spring (before summer heatwave season) and one in autumn (before winter storms and power cuts). Check expiration dates on food and medications, battery condition, and whether stored water is still good.

Can I use the planner for my zone?

Yes. The PlanRefugio Canada planner automatically adapts its recommendations to the selected zone. It calculates water, food, and gear quantities tailored to the specific risks of your region and the number of people in your household.

Not sure where to start?

Our planner adapts to your zone and tells you exactly what you need.

Build your personalized plan

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