Winter Safety: What's the Difference?

Weather in Iowa can change on a dime. To help you out, here are some winter terminologies as defined by the National Weather Service. Take a look below to stay prepared throughout this winter weather season, and as we head into chilling temperatures this weekend.

ADVISORY - Issued when winter weather events could cause a significant inconvenience, but could also lead to life threatening conditions if not cautious. 

WATCH - Issued when winter weather events have the potential to threaten life and property, but the exact timing and location of the storm is uncertain. Normally issued between 12 to 48 hours in advance. 

WARNING - Issued when winter weather events are occurring or are imminent and pose a threat to life and property. Warnings are normally issued between 2 and 24 hours in advance. 

Freezing Rain Advisory - Small accumulation of ice (freezing rain and/or freezing drizzle), generally < 1/4 of an inch 

Winter Weather Advisory 

     For Snow - Accumulation of 3 to 5 inches in 12 hours 

     For Sleet - Accumulation of ice pellets < 1/2 an inch

     For Snow & Blowing Snow - Visibility less than 1/2 a mile 

 

Wind Chill Advisory - Wind Chill values of -20°F to -29°F 

 

Blizzard Watch - Conditions are favorable for a blizzard event in the next 12 to 48 hrs. 

Winter Storm Watch - Conditions are favorable for a winter storm event to meet or exceed local Winter Storm Warning criteria in the next 12 to 48 hrs (Heavy Sleet, Heavy Snow, Ice Storm, Heavy Snow and Blowing Snow or a combination of events).

Wind Chill Watch - Conditions are favorable for wind chill temperatures to meet or exceed Wind Chill Warning criteria in the next 12 to 48 hours. 

 Blizzard Warning - Sustained wind or frequent gusts greater than or equal to 35 miles per hour accompanied by falling and/or blowing snow, frequently visibility less than 1/4 of a mile for at least 3 hours. 

 Ice Storm Warning - Widespread ice accumulation of 1/4 of an inch or more. 

 Winter Storm Warning - Heavy snow (accumulation of 6 inches or more in 12 hours or 8 inches or more in 24 hours), Sleet (accumulation of ice pellets 1/2 of an inch and greater), Ice (accumulation of 1/4 of an inch or more) and/or heavy Snow and Blowing Snow (wind is below blizzard criteria). 

 Wind Chill Warning - Wind chills -30°F or colder