Hurricane, Tropical Storm Watch vs. Warning: Here's what each means

Hurricane Milton barrels toward Florida Hurricane Milton is rapidly intensifying as it barrels toward Florida, where potentially life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds and torrential rain are expected when it makes landfall later this week. When severe tropical weather threatens, understanding the differences between various watches and warnings is crucial for staying safe during severe storms. Alerts like Tropical Storm Watch, Hurricane Watch, and Storm Surge Watch indicate potential hazards within 48 hours, signaling that dangerous conditions may develop. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Warning, Hurricane Warning, and Storm Surge Warning mean these threats are expected within 36 hours or less, requiring immediate protective actions. Warnings are more dire than watches, but both need to be taken seriously. In short, a watch is issued to alert people that there is a possibility of severe weather, while a warning is issued when the severe weather is already happening or is about…