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Weather Terms
Here are some of the terms most commonly used by the National Weather Service when referring to hurricanes. Tropical Disturbance A moving area of thunderstorms in the tropics with a poorly organized rotary circulation. Tropical Depression An area of low pressure, organized rotary circulation of clouds and winds to 38 mph. Tropical Storm Well organized counterclockwise circulation of clouds and winds 39-73 mph. The storm is assigned a name. Tropical Storm Watch The possibility of winds between 39-73 mph effecting the area within 48 hours. Tropical Storm Warning The likelihood of winds between 39-73 mph effecting the area within 24 hours. Hurricane When a Tropical Storm reaches winds of 74 mph or more it is classified a hurricane. Hurricane Watch A hurricane may threaten your area within 48 hours. Hurricane Warning A hurricane is expected to strike your area within 24 hours or less. Tornado Watch Tornadoes and severe thunderstorm are possible in your area. Tornado Warning Tornado sighted in your area, take shelter. Storm Surge The strong winds associated with hurricanes and tropical storms cause the sea level to rise above normal tidal heights, with giant wind-driven waves and strong unpredictable currents, sometimes covering 50 miles. Advisory A method for disseminating hurricane and storm data to the public every 6 hours. Small craft warnings are released as necessary. Special Advisory Warning given anytime there is a significant change in weather conditions or change in warnings. Intermediate Advisory A method for updating regular advisory information every 2 or 3 hours as necessary. |
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