Definitions to Know
TROPICAL DEPRESSION: An organized system of persistent clouds and thunderstorms with a closed low-level circulation and maximum winds of 38 mph or less.
TROPICAL STORM: An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a well defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph.
TROPICAL CYCLONE: A general term used to describe a tropical depression, tropical storm, or hurricane.
HURRICANE: An intense tropical weather system with a well defined circulation and sustained winds of 74 mph or higher.
HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM WATCH: Hurricane or Tropical Storm conditions are possible in the watch area within 48 hours.
HURRICANE/TROPICAL STORM WARNING: Hurricane or Tropical Storm conditions are possible in the warning area within 36 hours.
