What is a Watch and a Warning?
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The National Weather Service (NWS) is the "official" Federal government voice for issuing life threatening flood or weather warnings to the public. You can reach their websites at:
- NWS Seattle serves northwest Washington from Lewis and Grays Harbor counties northward.
- NWS Portland serves the counties along the Columbia river in southwest Washington.
- NWS Spokane serves northeast Washington from Chelan to Garfield and Asotin counties.
- NWS Pendleton serves south central Washington from Kittitas to Columbia counties.
The NWS issues flood and weather watches, warnings, and advisories in the effort to help protect lives and property.
- Watch - The risk of hazardous flood or weather conditions have increased, but its occurrence, location, and/or timing is uncertain. It is usually issued 12- to 36-hours prior to the potential event. A Watch is intended to provide enough lead time so those who need to do so, can set emergency plans in motion.
- Warning - When hazardous flood or weather conditions are occurring, are imminent, or have a very high probability of occurrence. A Warning is typically issued within 12-hours of a life or property-threatening event.
- Advisory - Less serious conditions that can cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.
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For more information, go to:
- NOAA Weather Radio Start Page
- What is Weather Radio?
- Weather Radio Features
- Weather Radio in Washington
- Weather Radio Warning Alarm and EAS (SAME) Activation
- What is a Watch and a Warning?
- Where to Get Weather Radios?
CONTACT
Public Education Program at PublicEducation@emd.wa.gov
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