Which is worse – a weather watch or a warning?

It’s been a banner year for crazy weather...

...but according to the Federal Signal Corporation, a lot of us don’t pay enough attention to, or fully understand the local weather warnings. A weather warning is generally more serious than a watch and means you have less time to prepare or evacuate. An advisory conveys less urgency but you should still pay attention. Let’s review:

• Tropical storm watch. Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within 48 hours.

• Tropical storm warning. Tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours.

• Hurricane watch. A hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.

• Hurricane warning. Hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours.

• Tornado watch. Tornadoes are possible. Remain alert for approaching storms.

• Tornado warning. A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Take shelter immediately.

• Excessive heat outlooks. Issued when the potential exists for an excessive heat event in the next 3 to 7 days. 

• Excessive heat watches. Issued when conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event in the next 12 to 48 hours.