Tornadoes are formed when an area of high pressure collides with an area of low pressure, with major temperature differences between the two. High pressure areas are typically dry, while low pressure areas are humid and wet. When these two zones collide, strong thunderstorms occur, potentially creating tight spiraling winds, or tornadoes. In Canada, strong thunderstorms and tornadoes most commonly occur where pressure zones can collide across treeless, flat landscape, like what is seen around the middle section of the country.
Canada borders the U.S., but also stretches up to the Artic Circle. When areas of turbulent weather occur in these colder areas, blizzards will cause strong winds and heavy snows to cover the landscape. Blizzards can happen anywhere in Canada, but most commonly occur from the plains to the eastern seaboard.
The coastal areas of Western Canada are known for their heavy rains and jungle-like temperate rain forests. These areas receive torrential rains that can cause flooding, mudslides and dangerous travel conditions. Coastal areas that receive torrential rainfall will have high tides and coastal flooding.
