As we head into the start of Winter, yes, Winter hasn’t even begun yet, I’m constantly asked the difference between the types of Watches and Warnings we typically see in Winter.
First, as today’s Winter Storm approached, most of the NewsChannel 5 viewing area was placed under a Winter Storm Watch. That means a significant winter weather (i.e., heavy snow, heavy sleet, significant freezing rain, or a combination of events) is expected, but not imminent, for the watch area; provides 12 to 36 hours notice of the possibility of severe winter weather. So, a watch means the bad weather is EXPECTED. Sometimes, a Winter Storm Watch is upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning. That’s what happened today. A Winter Storm Warning means a significant winter storm or hazardous winter weather is occurring, imminent, or likely, and is a threat to life and property. The Warning means it’s happening. Some spots to the South didn’t see as much Winter weather and were placed under a Winter Weather Advisory. This is less serious than a Winter Storm Warning. It is defined as a significant winter storm or hazardous winter weather is occurring, imminent, and is an inconvenience.
This storm brought us a little bit of snow, but was more of an ice storm for us. Undoubtedly, you’ll become more and more aware of the different types of winter weather scenarios we will experience as we head into our cold and snowy season. Just remember something I like to say… “Every day is one day closer to Spring!”
Have a good weekend and Merry Christmas! I’m Meteorologist Jason Nicholas.
