Winter storm watches, warnings, and advisories are issued by local National Weather Service Forecast offices.

Information is provided by:  NYS Emergency Management Office

Storm Watch Terms

Winter Storm Watch
Significant winter weather (i.e., heavy snow, heavy sleet, significant freezing rain, or a combination of events) is expected, but not imminent, for the watch area; provides 12 to 36 hours notice of the possibility of severe winter weather. Issued for the possibility of severe life-threatening winter weather conditions including; heavy snow, heavy ice and/or near blizzard conditions.

Lake Effect Storm Watch
Issued for the potential for heavy lake effect snow.

Wind Chill Watch
Issued for the potential of wind chills -25˚F or less, which can cause rapid frostbite and increase the risk of hypothermia.

Storm Warning Terms

Winter Storm Warning
A significant winter storm or hazardous winter weather is occurring, imminent, or likely, and is a threat to life and property.  Issued for a combination of heavy snow and/or ice, of which, at least one exceeds or meets warning criteria. Winter weather is expected to cause life-threatening public impact for a combination of winter hazards including heavy snow, ice, near blizzard conditions, blowing and drifting snow, and/or dangerous wind chills.  

Heavy Snow Warning
Issued when 7 inches or more of snow is expected in 12 hours or less, or 9 inches or more is expected in 24 hours or less. Heavy Snow Warnings are issued when there is a high degree of confidence that the entire event will be snow. 

Ice Storm Warning
Issued for a ½ inch or more of ice accumulation which causes damage to power lines and trees. Ice Storm Warnings are issued when there is a high degree of confidence that the entire event is expected to be ice.  

Blizzard Warning
Issued when blizzard conditions are imminent or expected in the next 12 to 24 hours. Blizzard conditions include sustained or frequent gusts equal to or greater than 35 mph AND considerable falling, blowing and drifting snow reducing visibilities frequently ¼ mile. 

Lake Effect Snow Warning
Issued for 7 inches or more of lake effect snow. 

Wind Chill Warning
Issued when the wind chill is expected to be -25˚F or less. Frostbite can occur in less than 10 minutes.

Storm Advisories

Winter Weather Advisory
When a significant winter storm or hazardous winter weather is occurring, imminent, and is an inconvenience.  Issued for winter weather that will cause significant inconveniences or could be life-threatening if the proper precautions are not taken.

Snow Advisory
Issued when an average of 4-6 inches of snow is expected in 12 hours or less. Snow advisories are issued when there is a high degree of confidence that the entire event will be snow. 

Freezing Rain Advisory
Any accumulation of freezing rain that can make roads slippery. Freezing rain advisories will only be issued when there is a high degree of confidence that the entire event will be freezing rain only.

Snow and Blowing Snow Advisory
Sustained wind or frequent gusts of 25-34 mph accompanied bye falling and blowing snow, occasionally reducing visibility to a ¼ mile or less for three hours or more.  

Blowing Snow Advisory
Widespread or localized blowing snow reducing visibilities to a ¼ mile or less with winds less than 35 mph.  

Lake Effect Snow Advisory
Issued for an average of 4-6 inches of lake effect snow.

Wind Chill Advisory
Issued for wind chills of -15˚F to -24˚F. Frostbite can occur in less than 30 minutes

• NYS Emergency Management Office

If you have any questions or would like more information on Winter Weather Terms, you may contact us at (315) 253-1405 or email us at cchealth@dfa.state.ny.us.