About Alert
It is a settlement in Ellesmere Island in the Nunatuv Region, where the Arctic Archipelago is located, and where military, scientific and meteorological activities are carried out. Located on the northern tip of Ellesmere Island, Alert is a permanent residential area with a temporary population. Its population consists of five permanent settlers and temporary military personnel, scientists and health workers.
The city is named 'Alert' after the 'HMS Alert' ship, which is the eleventh ship of the British Royal Navy and is dedicated to arctic explorations. Captain George Nares' HMS Alert and crew discovered Ellesmere Island and Alert in 1876. 817 kilometers to the north pole Alert is home to the Canadian Atmosphere and Meteorology Station, the Global Atmosphere Monitoring Laboratory, Alert Airport and a military base. A total of 74 personnel working in the facilities are selected among the ones who can survive in severe climate conditions. Alert, covered with snow for 10 months of the year, is under the effect of polar climate. The hottest months in the region are July and August with 3-4 degrees Celsius. Alert Airport is used by the Canadian National Defense Office and the Atmospheric Warning Station.