For immediate release | February 25, 2026
Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC) is saddened to learn about the closure of the Weatheradio service provided by Environment and Climate Change Canada.
For decades, Weatheradio has been a trusted and resilient source of real-time weather alerts and public safety information for Canadians – particularly in rural, remote and northern communities where cellular and internet coverage can be limited or unreliable.
Continuous broadcast weather alerts have assisted in supporting emergency preparedness, severe weather awareness and community resilience. Many Amateur Radio operators and emergency volunteers have relied on these broadcasts as part of their situational awareness during storms, wildfires and other public safety events.
RAC recognizes the evolving nature of communications technology, however any transition away from dedicated broadcast alerting services must ensure that no Canadians are left without timely access to critical warnings. Redundancy in emergency communications systems is not a luxury – it is a necessity.
Amateur Radio operators across Canada remain committed to supporting emergency management partners at the municipal, provincial and federal levels. Our volunteers stand ready to assist with communications support when conventional systems fail or become overloaded.
Radio Amateurs of Canada encourages continued dialogue with government and public safety stakeholders to ensure that Canada maintains a robust, accessible and resilient national alerting framework that serves all communities effectively.
Allan Boyd, VE3AJB/VE3EM
President
Radio Amateurs of/du Canada