Southern Plains Winter Preparedness

Watches are issued when a storm may create conditions that can harm life and property. Hazardous winter weather is only a possibility, not a certainty. 

The following are the primary watch headlines issued for winter weather events: 

• Winter Storm Watch is issued when heavy snow, damaging ice accumulations, or blizzard conditions are possible. Winter storm watches are typically issued 24 to 48 hours before a winter storm starts. The criteria for issuing a winter storm watch may be different for different offices across the Southern Plains and even the entire United States, based on climatology and partner needs. For the Winter Storm Watch and Warning criteria, please visit this map.  
• Extreme Cold Watch is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chills are possible typically in the next 12 to 48 hours. 

Warnings are issued when the threat to life and property is imminent or has already begun from severe winter weather.

The following are the warning headlines issued for winter weather events:

• Winter Storm Warning is issued when hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, freezing rain, sleet or any combination there of, is imminent or occurring. Winter storm warnings are typically issued 12 to 36 hours before the event is expected to start.
• Ice Storm Warning is issued when damaging ice accumulations are expected within the next 12 to 36 hours.
• Blizzard Warning is issued when sustained or gusty winds of 35 mph or more prevail, combined with falling or blowing snow, visibility of one quarter of a mile or less, and last for at least 3 hours.
• Extreme Cold Warning is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are expected or are occurring. This combination will result in frostbite, hypothermia, or even death when exposed in this type of condition for an extended period of time. ​The criteria varies for issuing an Extreme Cold Watch/Warning across the Southern Plains. 

Advisories are issued for less serious weather conditions that will not cause immediate threat to life and property. Advisories will be issued when weather conditions will impact motorists, outdoor activities, or public events. These events could become life-threatening if proper precautions are not taken.

The following are the advisory headlines issued for winter weather events:

• Winter Weather Advisory is issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, or sleet, that will create inconveniences. During an advisory, if caution is not exercised, life and property may be threatened.  Winter Weather Advisories are issued for any winter precipitation that may cause travel issues, but remain less than Winter Storm/Ice Storm Warning criteria. 
• Cold Weather Advisory is issued when seasonably cold air temperatures or wind chill values, but not extremely cold values, are expected or occurring. If caution is not exercised, hypothermia and frostbite may occur. The criteria for issuing a Cold Weather Advisory varies across the Southern Plains.