TROPICAL DEPRESSION:
A disturbance with a
clearly defined low pressure area; highest wind speed is thirty-eight (38) miles per hour.
SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY:
When winds 21-38 miles
per hour (18-39 knots) or hazardous wave conditions threaten a coastal area, small craft
operators are advised to remain in port or not to venture into the sea.
TROPICAL STORM:
A distinct low pressure
area well defined by a rotating circulation, with winds of 39-73 miles per hour.
TROPICAL STORM WATCH:
An announcement for
specific areas that a tropical storm, (or the potential of a newly developing tropical
storm) poses a threat to coastal areas, generally within 36 hours.
TROPICAL STORM WARNING:
A warning that tropical
storm conditions, including possible sustained winds within the range of 39-73 miles per
hour, are expected in specific coastal areas within 24 hours.
HURRICANE:
Once a tropical storm's
constant wind speed reaches 74 miles per hour or greater, it is classified as a hurricane.
HURRICANE WATCH:
An announcement for specific areas
that a hurricane or hurricane conditions pose a threat to coastal area, generally within
36 hours.
HURRICANE WARNING:
An alert that a
hurricane is expected in a specified coastal area within 24 hours. When a hurricane
warning is issued, all precautions should be completed immediately. If the hurricane's
path is unusual or erratic, the warning may be issued only a few hours before the
beginning of hurricane conditions.
HIGH WIND WATCH/WARNING:
A warning will be
issued for inland counties where hurricane force winds are anticipated.
HURRICANE HAZARDS:
A striking hurricane
creates four major hazards; storm surge, high winds, tornadoes, and heavy rains.
|
