Warning, Watch, Advisory: What’s the difference?

The temperature will soon drop below freezing. The Fort Worth Botanical Garden’s specialists discuss the best ways to keep your plants safe.


    • The National Weather Service office will issue Warnings, Watches or Advisories based on local criteria and the weather triggers associated.

    • The easiest way to explain a watch vs. warning is to use the taco example.

    • If you just have the ingredients to make a taco, you have a watch.

    • If you are having tacos right now, you have a warning.

  • The National Weather Service office will issue Warnings, Watches or Advisories based on local criteria and the weather triggers associated.

  • The easiest way to explain a watch vs. warning is to use the taco example.

  • If you just have the ingredients to make a taco, you have a watch.

  • If you are having tacos right now, you have a warning.

DallasA significant portion of Texas is predicted to see below-freezing temperatures from January 6–10. What do meteorologists mean when they use words like warning, watch, and advise during that period and the remainder of winter?

Depending on your location, yes. Because they are familiar with the area, the local National Weather Service office will issue warnings, watches, or advisories based on local standards. In comparison to the Southeast, the Northern Plains requires more snow to trigger a Winter Storm Warning than the Southeast does.

For the most up-to-date information, download the FOX 4 Weather app and tune in to FOX 4.

In any case, here’s what you should know if you notice a Watch, Warning, or Advisory.

Tacos are the simplest method to illustrate a Watch vs a Warning. You have a watch if you have what you need to create a taco. You have a warning if the taco is prepared. If you were aware that Taco Tuesday was approaching, you should be getting ready for it.

See also  Texas won't require vehicle inspections starting Jan. 1. Do you still need emissions testing?

Warnings



  • Blizzard Warnings

    are issued for frequent gusts greater than or equal to 35 mph accompanied by falling and/or blowing snow, frequently reducing visibility to less than 1/4 mile for three hours or more. A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds and poor visibilities are likely, leading to whiteout conditions making travel extremely difficult. Do not travel. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle and wait for help to arrive.


  • Winter Storm Warnings

    are issued for a significant winter weather event including snow, ice, sleet or blowing snow or a combination of these hazards. Travel will become difficult or impossible in some situations. Delay your travel plans until conditions improve.


  • Ice Storm Warnings

    are usually issued for ice accumulation of around 1/4 inch or more. This amount of ice accumulation will make travel dangerous or impossible and likely lead to snapped power lines and falling tree branches. Travel is strongly discouraged.


  • Wind Chill Warnings

    are issued for a combination of very cold air and strong winds that will create dangerously low wind chill values. This level of wind chill will result in frostbite and lead to hypothermia if precautions are not taken. Avoid going outdoors and wear warm protective clothing if you must venture outside.

Associated

Freeze warning: What you need to do ahead of winter storms

It’s time to safeguard your house, pets, and plants now that the temperatures are below freezing! During this snowstorm, learn how to keep safe and prevent expensive damage.

See also  This is Texas' most popular specialty license plate for 2024

Watches



  • Winter Storm Watches

    are issued when conditions are favorable for a significant winter storm event (heavy sleet, heavy snow, ice storm, heavy snow and blowing snow or a combination of events.)


  • Wind Chill Watches

    are issued when there is the potential for a combination of extremely cold air and strong winds to create dangerously low wind chill values.

Associated

What should be in your winter weather vehicle emergency kit

Having a winter emergency pack is crucial in case of a breakdown. About 40% of American drivers told AAA that they don’t carry such a kit, according to AAA Texas.

Advisories



  • Winter Weather Advisories

    are issued when snow, blowing snow, ice, sleet, or a combination of these wintry elements are expected, but conditions should not be hazardous enough to meet warning criteria. Be prepared for winter driving conditions and possible travel difficulties. Use caution when driving.


  • Wind Chill Advisories

    are issued when low wind chill temperatures are expected but will not reach local warning criteria. Extremely cold air and strong winds will combine to generate low wind chill readings. If you must venture outdoors, take precautions against frostbite and hypothermia.


  • Lake Effect Snow Advisories

    are issued for widespread or localized lake effect snowfall accumulation (and blowing snow) remaining below warning criteria. Expect lake effect snow showers and assume travel will be difficult in some areas. Some localized snow bands will be intense enough to produce several inches in a few areas with sudden restrictions in visibility.
  • The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provided the information in this article.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provided the information in this article.

See also  Woman who escaped Rowlett police while handcuffed back in custody

Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *