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Weather Terms to Know Tropical Depression: A tropical cyclone
with maximum sustained winds near the surface of less than 39 m.p.h. Tropical Storm Watch Tropical Storm conditions are possible in the specified area of the Watch, usually within 36 hours. Tropical Storm Warning Tropical Storm conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 24 hours. Hurricane A tropical cyclone with winds of 74 m.p.h. or more. Hurricane Watch Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the Watch, usually within 36 hours. "The first alert when a hurricane poses a possible, but as yet, uncertain threat to the coastal area, or when a tropical storm threatens the watch area and has a 50-50 chance of intensifying into a hurricane." When a watch is issued, everyone in the area should listen for advisories, watch the probabilities issued by the Hurricane Center, and be prepared to act quickly if a hurricane warning is issued. Hurricane Warning Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 24 hours. Tornado A strong, rotating column of air extending from the base of a cumulonimbus cloud to the ground. Tornado watch means tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, or both, are possible. Stay tuned to radio and television reports in your area. Tornado warning means you should take shelter immediately; a tornado has been sighted. Funnel cloud A rotating column of air extending from a cloud, but not reaching the ground. Severe Thunderstorm A thunderstorm with winds 58 mph or faster or hailstones three-quarters of an inch or larger in diameter. SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH tells you when and where severe thunderstorms could occur. SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING issued when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property for those in the path of the storm. URBAN AND SMALL STREAM ADVISORY Flooding of small streams, streets, and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains, is occurring. FLASH FLOOD OR FLOOD WATCH Flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated WATCH area—be alert. FLASH FLOOD OR FLOOD WARNING Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent—take necessary precautions at once. |