Threats & Emergencies

Hurricanes

What's in Hurricane Basics

Know the difference between "watches" and "warnings."

Hurricane Warnings and Advisories
Tropical Storm Watch
A tropical storm watch is issued when tropical storm conditions, including winds from 39 to 73 mph, pose a possible threat to a specified area within 48 hours.
Tropical Storm Warning
A tropical storm warning is issued when tropical storm conditions are expected to affect a specified area within 36 hours or less.
Hurricane Watch
A hurricane watch is issued for a specified area when hurricane conditions, including sustained winds of 74 mph or greater, are possible within 48 hours.
Hurricane Warning
A hurricane warning is issued for a specified area when hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours. In coastal or near-coastal areas, a hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water, or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves, continues, even though the winds may have subsided below hurricane intensity.
Evacuation Order
The most important instruction you will receive. If issued, leave immediately.