Hurricane Storm Terms Gathered from Various Sources
by Donald Ray Burger
Attorney at Law

Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible in this area.

Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is imminent; take immediate action.

Tropical Disturbance: A moving area of thunderstorms that maintains its identity for 24 hours or more.

Tropical Depression:Rotary circulation at surface. Highest constant wind speed is 38 miles per hour.

Tropical Storm: Distinct rotary circulation. Constant wind speeds range from 39 to 73 miles per hour.

Hurricane: Pronounced rotary circulation, sustaining a wind speed of 74 miles per hour or more.

Gale Warnings: Issued when winds of 39 to 54 miles per hour are expected.

Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are possible in the specified area of the Watch, usually within 36 hours. During a Hurricane Watch, prepare to take immediate action to protect your family and property in case a Hurricane Warning is issued.

Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 24 hours. Complete all storm preparations and evacuate if directed by local officials.

Small Craft Advisories: When a severe storm threatens a coastal area, small craft operators will be advised to remain in port or not to venture into open sea.

Storm Surge: A great dome of water, often up to 50 miles wide or more and sometimes up to 25 feet high, that comes sweeping across the coastline near the area where the eye of the hurricane makes landfall.