We've been talking about it all week. This week in Illinois is Winter Weather Preparedness week. For the past two days, we've discussed the different types of winter weather hazards and some of the items you need to keep with you whether in your home, office or car.
Now, we're going to discuss just what exactly a watch, warning and advisory mean during winter weather. In severe weather season, a watch and warning are pretty straight forward. A watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather. Remain alert and be prepared to act. A warning means severe weather is occurring and you need to act immediately.
During the winter months, there are many different types of watches, warnings and advisories. For example, Winter Storm Watch, Blizzard Watch, Wind Chill Watch, etc. But what exactly do they mean, and when do they get issued?
Let's first talk about a watch. It's important to note that different parts of the U.S. will have different criteria for when they issue winter products. They are tailored more towards their specific region. For northern Illinois & southern Wisconsin, a watch is issued 24 hours, sometimes 72 hours, in advance. Just like a watch during severe weather season, a watch issued during the winter season means the Meteorologist is somewhat confident there will be a winter storm that could have a significant impact, or produce dangerous winter conditions.
A warning is issued 12 hours, up to 36 hours, in advance of a winter event. Whether it be a Winter Storm Warning or Blizzard Warning, the Meteorologist is pretty confident that there will be impactful weather in the area.
Finally, an advisory. This is issued 12 hours, up to 36 hours, in advance of a winter event and means the forecaster has fairly high confidence that hazardous weather will be possible.
Remember, you can always click here to find more on winter weather preparedness and what to do to stay ahead of the storm and keep you and your family safe this winter season.
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