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Know Your Winter Weather Terms

Wind Chill Advisory 
Wind chill temperatures could pose a threat with prolonged exposure. 

Wind Chill Warning 
Wind chill temperatures could be hazardous to life with prolonged exposure. 

Winter Weather Advisories 
Accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle and sleet are expected. Be careful; Winter Weather Advisories could lead to life-threatening situations. 

Winter Storm Watch 
A blizzard, heavy snow, heavy freezing rain or heavy sleet are possible. Winter storm watches are usually issued 12-48 hours before a winter storm is expected to hit. 

Winter Storm Warning 
Hazardous winter weather with heavy snow, blizzard conditions, heavy freezing rain or heavy sleet is approaching or occurring. 

Blizzard Warning 
Sustained or gusty winds of 35 mph or more; falling or blowing snow with visibility at ¼ mile or less; these conditions persist for at least 3 hours. 

Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

updated Jan 04, 2024