NEW ORLEANS — A hurricane watch has been issued for the area around the mouth of the Mississippi River, south of New Orleans. As tropical activity continues to ramp up in the Gulf, that triggers hurricane watches and warnings.
But do you know the difference?
WHAT IS A HURRICANE WATCH?
According to the National Ocean Service, a hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions, including sustained winds of 74 mph or higher, are possible within the specified area.
Watches are typically issued 48 hours - or two days - ahead of anticipated tropical-storm-force winds in the area.
If a hurricane watch is issued for where you live, you should prepare your home and review your evacuation plan in case a warning is issued.
WHAT IS A HURRICANE WARNING?
A hurricane warning means that hurricane conditions, including sustained winds of 74 mph or higher, are expected somewhere withing the specified area.
Hurricane warnings are issued 36 hours ahead of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.
If a hurricane warning is issued where you live, you should complete storm preparations and leave the threatened area, if directed by local officials.
TRACKING THE STORM
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