Summer Watches, Warnings, & Advisories – What Are the Differences?

The summer season means sunshine and warm temperatures. It also means excessive heat, heavy rain, strong thunderstorms and even the possibility of tornadoes. When the National Weather Service expects one of these events to occur, they will issue a watch, warning, or advisory. Do you know the difference?

If not, here they are:

1. Wind Advisory: Issued when sustained winds of 31-39 MPH are expected for an hour or more - OR - wind gusts of 46 - 57 MPH for any duration
2. High Wind Watch/Warning: Issued when sustained winds of 40 MPH or more are expected for one hour or more - OR - wind gusts of 58 MPH or higher for any length of time
3. Severe Thunderstorm Watch: This is issued when severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area
4. Severe Thunderstorm Warning: A warning is issued when severe thunderstorms are imminent or occurring in the warning area
5. Tornado Watch: This is when severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible within the watch area. IT DOES NOT mean they will occur - A watch only means they are possible
6. Tornado Warning: This is issued when a tornado is imminent, meaning one is on the ground. When a tornado warning is issued, the weather service advises to SEEK SHELTER immediately.

For more watches, warning and advisories - CLICK HERE