When the Wind Picks Up, Will Your Team Know What to Do?

It starts like any other day.

Guests are checking in. Housekeeping is turning rooms. The campground is full. Then a weather alert appears on someone's phone, the sky darkens, and suddenly everyone is looking to your team for answers.

In moments like these, preparation matters.

Tornadoes and extreme wind events can develop quickly, leaving little time to make decisions. For accommodation providers, having clear procedures in place can help protect guests, support employees, reduce confusion, and speed up recovery after a storm.

 

Before Severe Weather Arrives

The strongest response starts before an alert is ever issued.

Take time to ensure your property has:

• A current Emergency Response Plan (ERP)
• Clearly identified shelter-in-place locations
• Staff roles and responsibilities assigned
• Guest communication procedures in place
• Backup plans for power, internet, or cell service disruptions
• Up-to-date insurance and emergency contact information

 

Regular staff training and emergency exercises can also help teams respond more confidently during a real event.

 

Know the Difference Between a Watch and a Warning

Understanding severe weather alerts is critical.

Tornado Watch

A tornado watch means conditions are favourable for tornado development.

During a watch, operators should:

• Notify management and department leaders
• Prepare designated shelter locations
• Brief staff on their responsibilities
• Secure outdoor items when safe to do so
• Prepare guest messaging and public announcements
• Monitor Alberta Emergency Alerts and weather updates closely

 

Tornado Warning

A tornado warning means a tornado has been sighted or identified by radar. Action should be taken immediately.

When a warning is issued:

• Activate your Emergency Response Plan
• Direct guests and employees to designated shelter areas
• Stop outdoor work and recreational activities
• Keep everyone away from windows, glass, exterior walls, and large open spaces
• Continue monitoring official alerts until the warning has ended

 

Communication Matters

During an emergency, guests may not know what to do or where to go.

Clear communication should include:

• Where guests should go
• Areas to avoid
• Updates on changing conditions
• Instructions on when it is safe to leave shelter

 

Simple, consistent messaging can help reduce confusion and keep people safe.

 

After the Storm

Once the immediate threat has passed, the focus shifts to safety and recovery.

Key priorities include:

• Checking for injuries
• Assessing damage and hazards
• Restricting access to unsafe areas
• Documenting damage for insurance purposes
• Contacting emergency responders and utility providers if necessary
• Reviewing lessons learned and updating procedures as needed

 

Hotels may also find themselves supporting evacuees, emergency responders, or community recovery efforts during significant weather events. Be prepared to coordinate accommodations, communicate clearly with staff and guests, and work with local authorities or emergency partners as needs evolve.

 

Be Ready Before the Next Alert

Severe weather preparedness protects more than buildings. It gives your team clear direction, so they can move quickly, guide guests to safety, and support recovery when every minute matters.

For detailed checklists, sample guest communications, response procedures, and recovery planning resources, view AHLA's Tornado & Extreme Wind Preparedness & Response Guide here.

 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Government of Alberta - Tornadoes and Extreme Winds Fact Sheet

Alberta Emergency Alert

Environment and Climate Change Canada Weather Alerts

TourismWorks Training Platform

Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association