Storm watch vs. warning. What is the difference? If you live in a coastal, storm-prone area then you are well aware of hurricane season. There is always a storm being talked about on the news. But it is just talk until a warning or watch is actually issued. But if you do not know what the difference is between a storm watch and warning then you will not know what actions to take. So in this article we discuss what the difference is and why it matters for you and your family.
You may also like our guide on When to Put Up Hurricane Shutters
What does a storm warning vs watch mean? We give a definition of each one below in more detail so you can get a better idea of the difference.
Table of Contents
What is a tropical storm watch?
Tropical storm watch meaning
A tropical storm watch, similar to a hurricane watch means that a tropical storm is POSSIBLE in an area.
When is a storm watch issued?
The National Hurricane Center will issue a tropical storm watch 48 hours prior to the start of tropical storm force winds (39 to 73 MPH) in a specific area.
So a storm watch means an advisory that a tropical storm is possible 48 hours before the start of a storm.
What is a tropical storm warning?
Tropical storm warning meaning
A storm warning means that a tropical storm IS EXPECTED to hit a specific area within 24 hours. And because the storm is expected to happen a warning means that you should start your preparations if you haven’t already.
When is a tropical storm warning issued?
A tropical storm warning is issued at least 36 hours before the start of tropical storm conditions in a given area.
Storm watch vs storm warning: Which is more severe?
A warning should be taken more seriously as it means that the storm is expected vs possible. According to the National Weather Service a warning indicates that there is a “80% greater probability of occurrence”. So a tropical storm warning (advisory) means that a tropical storm is much more likely to happen, and hence, it is more severe.
Why does it matter?
Understanding the differences between storm warnings and watches is important because it helps you prepare for the oncoming storm appropriately. For instance, you know that a tropical storm or other severe weather is more likely to happen when a warning is issued vs. a watch.
What you should do when a watch and/or warning is issued
When a watch or warning is issued you need to start properly preparing your home and family for the storm. This includes paying attention to your weather service as well as local authorities, preparing all necessary supplies and reviewing (or making) a plan.
It also means you should install your hurricane shutters or storm panels before the storm starts.
Where can you get hurricane info and be alerted of watches and warnings in Florida?
We have compiled a page with an exhaustive list of hurricane and tropical storm resources specifically for those living in Florida.
You can also keep up to date with tropical storm and hurricane watches, warnings, updates and current weather conditions through the following weather services, hurricane websites, etc.:
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s National Hurricane Center
- National Weather Service (NWS)
If you have questions about hurricane shutters or hurricane protection products for your home then contact us today.
