Watch or Warning

The National Hurricane Center issue updates every few hours during tropical weather threats. They also issue tropical storm, hurricane, and storm surge watches and warnings. Because it may not be safe to prepare for hurricane wind or storm surge once the storm is close, watches are typically issued 48 hours before the hazardous conditions are possible somewhere within the specified area and warnings are typically issued 36 hours before the hazard is expected to begin somewhere within the specified area

Tropical Storm WatchTropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible somewhere within the specified area within 48 hours.
Tropical Storm WarningTropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected somewhere within the specified area within 36 hours.
Hurricane WatchHurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or greater) are possible somewhere within the specified area.
Hurricane WarningHurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or greater) are expected somewhere within the specified area. Evacuate immediately if so ordered.
Storm Surge WatchThere is a possibility of life-threatening storm surge flooding from rising water moving inland somewhere within the specified area, generally within 48 hours.
Storm Surge WarningThere is a danger of life-threatening storm surge flooding from rising water moving inland somewhere within the specified area, generally within 36 hours. If you are under a storm surge warning, check for evacuation orders from your local officials.