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.
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