New winter weather advisories, watches, and warnings issued by the NWS
As we approach the winter months it is important to prepare yourself for all types of winter weather. The ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Team will track and alert you of any impactful weather in mid-Missouri within the coming months. You may notice specific advisories, watches, and warnings that the weather team will refer to, which are issued by the National Weather Service. It’s important to be aware of exactly what each of these means in order to prepare you and your family for the potentially dangerous conditions ahead.
This year the National Weather Service has consolidated many of it’s winter weather products in order to more effectively and efficiently communicate with the public. This year, the Lake Effect Snow Advisory, Winter Weather Advisory, and Freezing Rain Advisory has been consolidated into the Winter Weather Advisory. Now, when a Winter Weather Advisory is issued you can expect relatively minor inconveniences caused by the potential for freezing rain, heavy snow, sleet, or lake effect snow.
The winter watch products have been condensed as well. The Winter Storm Watch, Lake Effect Snow Watch, and Blizzard Watch have all been grouped into the Winter Storm Watch. When this is issued by the NWS, there is the potential for high impact weather soon. This means freezing rain, snow, sleet, or lake effect snow will likely cause some significant inconveniences.
Finally, the previous winter warning products have been altered slightly as well. When you see a winter warning issued this means that high impact weather is likely, which will cause significant impacts to life or property. This is the most serious of the three categories. There are now three different types of winter warnings issued by the National Weather Service, which include the Ice Storm Warning, the Blizzard Warning, and the Winter Storm Warning.
Stick with the ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Team during the winter months ahead to stay up to date with any dangerous winter weather that could impact you and your home.
