WATCH, ADVISORY, WARNING-What Does It All Mean?

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

Be informed and ready! Regardless of the level, you should always be aware of your local weather. Be prepared, Be safe!

We see it on all our local news stations all the time. Wind Advisory, Fire Watch, Heat Warning! What does it all mean? 

Here is a quick reference guide to help clear it up:

WATCH: In this case it means there is a chance of a condition happening and usually covers a large geographical area for a substantial amount of time. So in other words, the severe weather hasn't occurred yet but upcoming weather and conditions are setting up to potentially create dangerous conditions.

ADVISORY: Advisory is usually right above a Watch but below the level of a Warning. At this point the expected weather is likely to occur. We see this a lot in our area as Wind Advisories when the Santa Ana Winds are projected. 

WARNING: At this point, the projected severe weather, is occurring, or likely to occur and you are being advised to prepare yourself and your home. Heat Warnings, High Wind Warning, Red Flag Warnings are all common warnings in our local area. 

Check out the National Weather Service for more details on specific warning types.

Be sure to also sign up to receive alerts so you are prepared!