TERMS TO KNOW:

TORNADO WATCH: Weather conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms, hail, gusty winds and tornados in and close
to the watch area. Be prepared to take necessary actions in the event that an actual tornado warning should occur.

TORNADO WARNING: Strong rotation in a thunderstorm is indicated by Doppler radar or a tornado has been sighted by spotters. Take necessary
action immediately to protect oneself from bodily harm.

By international agreement, TROPICAL CYCLONE is the general term for all cyclone circulations originating over tropical waters, classified by form and intensity as follows:

TROPICAL WAVE: A trough of low pressure in the trade-wind easterlies.

TROPICAL DISTURBANCE: A moving area of thunderstorms in the Tropics that maintains its identity for 24 hours or more. A common phenomenon in the tropics.

TROPICAL DEPRESSION: A tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind is 38 mph (33 knots) or less.

TROPICAL STORM: A tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind ranges from 39-73 mph (34-63 knots) inclusive.

HURRICANE: A tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind is 74 mph (64 knots) or greater.

SMALL CRAFT CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS: When a tropical cyclone threatens a coastal area, small craft operators are advised to remain in port or not to venture into open sea.

TROPICAL STORM WATCH: Is issued for a coastal area when there is the threat of tropical storm conditions within 36 hours.

TROPICAL STORM WARNING: A warning for tropical storm conditions, including sustained winds within the range of 39 to 73 mph (43 to 63 knots) which are expected in a specified coastal area within 24 hours or less.

HURRICANE WATCH: An announcement that hurricane conditions pose a possible threat to a specified coastal area within 36 hours.

HURRICANE WARNING: A warning that sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher are expected in a specified coastal area within 24 hours or less.

STORM SURGE: An abnormal rise of the sea along a shore as the result, primarily, of the winds of a storm.

FLASH FLOOD WATCH: Means that flash flood conditions are possible within the designated watch area-be alert.

FLASH FLOOD WARNING: Means a flash flood has been reported or is imminent- take immediate action.