Winter Weather in North Dakota
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The National Weather Service Issued A What? The National Weather Service issues a variety of watches, warnings and advisories during times of severe winter weather. Keep the following weather words in mind this winter season: |
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Watch |
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Warnings and Advisories Are issued when a hazardous winter weather event is occurring, is imminent, or has a high probability of occurrence. A Warning is used when there is a threat to life or property. Advisories are for less serious conditions that cause inconvenience, and, if caution is not used, could lead to situations that may threaten life or property. |
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Blizzard By definition a blizzard is a storm with winds of 35 mph or higher AND visibility frequently below ¼ mile in snow and/or blowing snow AND these conditions last for three (3) hours or longer. There is no set temperature requirement for a blizzard. |
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Wind Chill A wind chill warning is issued for wind chills lower than 40 below zero with a 10 mph or higher wind. A wind chill advisory is issued for wind chills of 20 below zero to 40 below, with a 10 mph or higher wind. See the wind chill chart here. |
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Warning and Advisory Type Winter Storm Warnings are issued for combination events, like snow mixed with sleet or freezing rain, or combined with wind and blowing snow. When only one element is expected specific warnings may be issued, like a Heavy Snow Warning, or an Ice Storm Warning. Winter Weather Advisories are issued for combination events (snow with freezing rain or sleet, or snow with wind and blowing snow) but there should be no threat to life or property if caution is exercised. Advisories are issued when the event is not expected to meet warning criteria. A Winter Weather Advisory is issued for combination events. Specific advisories may be issued when only one element is expected, like snow advisory, freezing rain advisory, or blowing snow advisory. |
