With the Snow Train coming our Way, it is a good time to review the difference!
National Weather Service (NWS) Definitions
Winter Weather Advisories are issued when snow, blowing snow, ice, sleet, or a combination of these wintry elements is expected but conditions should not be hazardous enough to meet warning criteria. Be prepared for winter driving conditions and possible travel difficulties. Use caution when driving.
Winter Storm Watches are issued when conditions are favorable for a significant winter storm event (heavy sleet, heavy snow, ice storm, heavy snow and blowing snow or a combination of events.)
Winter Storm Warnings are issued for a significant winter weather event including snow, ice, sleet or blowing snow or a combination of these hazards. Travel will become difficult or impossible in some situations. Delay your travel plans until conditions improve.
Blizzard Warnings are issued for frequent gusts greater than or equal to 35 mph accompanied by falling and/or blowing snow, frequently reducing visibility to less than 1/4 mile for three hours or more. A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds and poor visibilities are likely, leading to whiteout conditions making travel extremely difficult. Do not travel. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle and wait for help to arrive. Note: It is unusual to meet all the criteria for a blizzard.
We hope this is helpful to you in remembering the difference between a Weather Advisory, a Weather Watch, and a Weather Warning.
Grand Junction NWS Advisory & Warning Map
– Arleen
2 Responses
Great post Arleen, your pictures really helped cement in my mind the differences!
Awesome! Thanks, Brady. As they say a picture is worth a thousand words.