Difference Between Hurricane Watch and Warning: What You Need to Know

What is the difference between a hurricane watch and a warning? With each weather notification, what actions should we take? Be proactive in your overall Hurricane Prep List and stay ahead of the storm with the useful information below.

Difference between hurricane watch and warning

What is the difference between hurricane watch and warning?

A Hurricane Watch means conditions are possible within 48 hours, while a Warning means conditions are expected within 36 hours. 

Check the US national weather overview or a Louisiana air quality index, Florida 3-day forecast as soon as an alert is issued. 

In simple terms, a hurricane watch means it's time to prepare, while a hurricane warning means it's time to act.

Here are some differences between hurricane watch and warning. Have a look:

What is a hurricane watch?

A hurricane watch is a warning issued by weather officials when hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or greater) are expected in a certain location.

It is usually issued 48 hours before the expected commencement of tropical storm-force winds (39-73 mph), which precede hurricane-force winds.  

A hurricane watch is announced for individuals and businesses to have adequate time to undertake preparations, such as securing property, gathering disaster supplies, and revising evacuation plans, before conditions become too risky for such actions. 

It represents a potential threat, encouraging preparedness and attentive monitoring of the storm's progress. 

Reviewing foundational hurricane safety tips during this window can help ensure no critical steps are overlooked.

A hurricane watch is issued for people to have enough time to prepare

What is a hurricane warning?

A hurricane warning is issued by weather officials when hurricane-force winds of 74 mph or higher are predicted in a specific area. 

This is a more urgent alert than a hurricane watch.

It is normally issued 36 hours before the expected onset of tropical-storm-force winds (39-73 mph), which come before hurricane-force winds. 

When a hurricane warning is issued, preparations to safeguard life and property must be completed as soon as possible. 

It implies that the threat is imminent and that dangerous conditions are highly likely. 

People in the impacted region must take immediate precautionary measures, including completing evacuations as directed.

Hurricane warning: Be ready to evacuate

What to do during a hurricane watch?

A huricane watch means hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours.

During this time, you should:

• Stay informed: Continue updating information from local news, NOAA weather radio, or official government alerts. Hurricane can change their direction, intensity, and speed suddenly; therefore, it’s essential to track the hurricane.

• Evacuation plan: Recheck your emergency plan, evacuation routes, and shelters.

• Hurricane supply list food and emergency kit: Ensure you prepare enough water, necessities, and follow a dedicated hurricane supply list food to keep your family well-nourished for at least 3 to 7 days.

• Secure your home: Trim trees and shrubs to minimize potential hazards. Install permanent storm shutters or prepare to board up windows with 5/8-inch plywood. Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage.

• Prepare for potential evacuation: Fill your car’s gas tank, know your evacuation zone, and safe route. Always ready to evacuate immediately.

• Set the freezer and refrigerator to their lowest temperature. Only open when required, and close as soon as possible.  In the event of a power outage, the coolest air inside will help perishables live considerably longer.

Hurricane preparation

What to do during a hurricane warning?

A hurricane warning means hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours, and immediate action is required.

After the hurricane warning is issued, you should do:

• Evacuate Immediately if Ordered: If local authorities issue an evacuation order for your area, do not delay. Follow designated evacuation routes. Remember, executing these steps safely now directly impacts your safety and options for What to Do After a Hurricane once recovery begins.

• Stay Indoors and Away from Windows: If you are not evacuating, find the safest room in your home, preferably an interior room on the lowest floor. Stay away from windows, glass doors, and skylights.

• Listen to Official Information: Continuously monitor local news, NOAA Weather Radio, or official government alerts for critical updates and instructions. Do not rely on rumors.

• Be Prepared for Power Outages: Have flashlights, extra batteries, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio ready. Charge cell phones and other devices.

• Avoid Flooded Areas: Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. "Turn around, don't drown."

Stay away from the window during a hurricane happens

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between a hurricane watch and a warning is paramount for effective hurricane preparedness and safety. To learn more about the meteorological criteria that trigger these alerts, read our comprehensive guide on what is the difference between a hurricane typhoon and cyclone, or visit our Hurricane Resource Center for continuous storm coverage.