Watches vs Warnings

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Summer Storm Watches vs Warnings

Be alert! No matter where you are in Northeast Tennessee, you’re at risk for stormy weather. Know the differences between emergency weather watches and warnings and pay attention to local weather statements.

Severe Storm Watch: Means atmospheric conditions are favorable for a particular severe weather hazard within the next several hours. Stay informed and have a plan. A Tropical Storm Watch is issued when a tropical cyclone with winds of 39-73 mph may affect the area within the next 48 hours, and a Hurricane Watch goes into effect when conditions with winds of 74 mph or more is possible within the next 48 hours.

Severe Storm Warning: Indicates a particular severe weather hazard is imminent or occurring. Promptly take action to protect life and property. A Tropical Storm Warning advisory is triggered when a tropical cyclone with sustained winds of 39-73 mph is foreseen within 36 hours or less, and when sustained winds of 74 or more are expected within 36 hours or less, it’s upgraded to a Hurricane Warning.

Stay safe! You and your family’s (or employee’s) physical safety and health are priority. You can learn about summer storm watches and warnings from the National Weather Service (NWS). The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA)/NWS Storm Prediction Center shares regional weather warnings, and the National Hurricane Center (NHC) tracks tropical storms and hurricanes.