When you hear that a hurricane is in the area, it can be tempting to panic. Alerts are issued to keep you safe and provide time to prepare. Knowing the difference between a hurricane watch and a warning can help you determine if it’s time to evacuate or stay put.
Hurricane watch. A hurricane watch means that there’s no hurricane yet, but weather conditions (winds of 74mph or higher) could cause one. Experts will announce a hurricane watch 48 hours before they think dangerous winds will start.
Hurricane warning. A hurricane warning is more serious. It means a hurricane has already started or is just about to start. These are usually issued about 36 hours in advance of when a hurricane might hit an area.