Do you know the difference between a watch and a warning? Is a storm warning the same as a blizzard warning? Winter is upon us in the Lehigh Valley, so it’s important to understand the terms used to forecast the weather.
Familiarize yourself with the following weather alerts so you know what actions you may need to take:
- Winter storm watch: Be alert, a storm is likely
- Winter weather advisory: Experts expect conditions to cause significant hazards, especially to motorists
- Frost/freeze warning: Experts expect below-freezing temperatures and damage to plants, crops or fruit trees
- Winter storm warning: Take action, a storm is entering—or is already in—the area
- Blizzard warning: The combination of snow and strong winds will produce blinding snow, near-zero visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening wind chill—seek refuge immediately
With the Farmer’s Almanac predicting a “Polar Coaster” this winter for the Northeast, it’s going to be important to understand the differences and be prepared. Some other resources to help you get through the winter:
Ten Things Everyone Needs to Know About Winter Weather Forecasts
