Hurricane Preparedness

National Hurricane Center Terminology

Tropical Storm:
A tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed 39-73 mph.

Tropical Storm Watch:
An announcement for specific coastal areas that tropical storm conditions are possible within 36 hours.

Tropical Storm Warning:
A warning that sustained winds from 39 to 73 mph associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in a specified coastal area within 24 hours or less.

Hurricane:
A tropical cyclone in which the maximum sustained surface wind speed exceeds 74 mph.

Hurricane Watch:
Hurricane conditions are possible in the specified coastal area of the WATCH, usually within 36 hours.

Hurricane Warning:
Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified coastal area of the WARNING, usually within 24 hours.

The National Weather Service will also post Inland Hurricane and Inland Tropical Storm Watches and Warnings for locations like Windham.

More about Hurricanes
2008 List of Names
Terminology
Emergency Supply Kit