Hurricane Watch vs. Hurricane Warning – Know the Difference

This year's hurricane season has been a volatile one to say the least. Since the start of hurricane season June 1st, there have been 14 named storms, 3 of which are currently swirling around in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. When a storm is approaching, television meteorologists often show us the little hurricane icon and a "cone" of its projected path on a large computerized map. Luckily, most of the storms each year veer away from Florida. But on few occasions, these damaging storms come ashore to threaten homes and businesses. Many times, you can "hunker down" in your house and ride out the wind and rain (tropical storms through category 2 hurricanes). But there are more severe hurricanes which really pack a punch (category 3-5 hurricanes) that might require you to leave your belongings to fend for themselves. Your personal safety is top priority.

The following are terms used when a storm is eminent. It's a good idea to learn them so you'll know what actions you need to take to be safe.

Tropical Storm Watch: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified coastal area within 48 hours.
Tropical Storm Warning: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within the specified coastal are within 48 hours.
Hurricane Watch: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within the specified coastal area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.
Hurricane Warning: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere within the specific coastal area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.