Explanation of common weather warnings issued by the National Weather Service in the US. (International warnings coming soon).
Severe thunderstorms are common in the Southeast U.S and Midwest. However, they can happen almost anywhere (even in unusual places, like Alaska). If weather conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms, the National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm watch.
Areas that experience heavy rainfall, snowmelt, and tropical storms are susceptible to flash floods. If weather conditions are favorable for a flash flood in your area, the National Weather Service issues a flash flood watch to give you time to prepare.
Most common in the U.S. in the Great Plains and the Southeast, tornadoes are one of nature’s most violent weather events. Since thunderstorms always precede tornadoes, thunderstorms are prevalent in the same regions as tornadoes.
The National Weather Service issues various wind warnings to warn the public of dangerous wind conditions. Wind warnings are issued when sustained wind speeds are expected to reach or exceed a certain speed for a certain amount of time.
It’s snow squall season again! That means it’s time to prepare yourself for sudden changes in weather conditions on the roads, especially if you live … Read more
Hurricanes are among the most powerful and destructive natural disasters in coastal regions and island communities. These massive tropical storms are characterized by intense winds, … Read more
Coastal regions are no strangers to tropical storms, which, although not as powerful as hurricanes, can still pose significant risks to communities. Tropical storms can … Read more
Although blizzards are most common in the Great Plains, the upper Midwest, and the Northeastern U.S., blizzards can occur just about anywhere where snow falls in winter.
In the Northeastern US, ice storms are dangerous winter weather events that can cause extensive damage due to severe ice accumulation. Severe ice storms are commonplace in states like Vermont, Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey during cold winters but have also occurred in states further south and west.
A hurricane local statement is an emergency message that provides critical information about a hurricane. Your local National Weather Service forecast office issues this product, including information about the storm’s location, intensity, and expected impacts.
If weather conditions are favorable for hazardous winter weather in your area within 48 hours, then the National Weather Service issues a winter storm watch. Winter storm watches hint at the possibility of hazardous winter weather.
