Weather Advisory vs Warning
Though weather advisory and weather warning sound similar and thus confusing, there is some difference between weather advisory and warning. This article attempts to clear the confusion by explaining the difference between weather advisory and warning, two terms that come under NWS terminology. National Weather Service is the central agency that is responsible for giving weather alerts, forecasts, and warnings to people living in areas likely to be affected by a particular weather event. This is done to disseminate information among the people and also to keep them safe and protected. The terminology used by NWS can be very confusing for the people as it includes words like advisory, warning, watch, alert, etc. that seem to be similar in meaning.
What is a Weather Advisory?
Weather advisory is a statement issued by NWS that is meant to provide information about the weather conditions. It is something that you would want to take a look into when you are planning to spend time outdoors. These advisories are meant to arm people with the weather related information that could cause them inconvenience though they are not life threatening. An example of a weather advisory during the winter season would be snow up to 1-2 inches. These advisories are made for weather events that could take place in the next 24 hours. An advisory means that the expected conditions of weather have a good chance of taking place in the next 24 hours. These advisories are generally made for weather conditions that are not of a very severe nature.
What is a Weather Warning?
Warning issued by NWS means that the weather condition is either already taking place or it is very likely to occur in the next few hours. You must take precautionary measures to protect yourself whenever you hear a weather warning from NWS. A warning is issued for a small geographical area and it carries a definite period. Weather warnings are for events that could pose a serious threat to life and property. A weather warning from NWS tells you that the weather condition forecasted is very likely to take place in the next 24 hours. It gives you time to prepare and take precautionary measures to save the lives of your family members and your property. When you hear a warning from NWS, you can assume that the weather condition is occurring, imminent, or very likely to take place in the next 24 hours. Tornado warning in your area means you should find the lowest place in your house to escape any mishap. On the other hand, a flood warning means you must leave the place and find a higher point to escape without being affected.
What is the difference between Weather Advisory and Warning?
• Warnings are for more severe weather conditions whereas advisories are for weather conditions that are not life-threatening.
• Advisories are for weather conditions that could cause inconvenience whereas warnings can cause loss of life and property.
• Warnings are issued for smaller geographical areas than advisories.
• Warning may mention a definite period while an advisory talks about weather conditions that could take place in the next 24 hours.
• Advisory arms you with information to make your plans for the day whereas a warning requires immediate action on your part.
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