Watch
Conditions are favorable for dangerous weather. Get prepared and stay alert.
Weather Terms Mini-Glossary
Short definitions for the terms used most on this site. Designed for fast understanding during active weather.
Alert Words
Warning
Dangerous weather is happening now or expected very soon. Take action immediately.
Advisory
Less severe than a warning, but still can cause problems. Use caution and monitor updates.
Severe Thunderstorm Criteria
A thunderstorm is considered severe when it can produce one or more of these:
- Hail at least 1 inch in diameter.
- Wind gusts at least 58 mph.
- A tornado.
Risk Categories (Convective Outlook)
Marginal
Low-end severe risk. Stay weather-aware.
Slight
Scattered severe risk. Have a plan ready.
Enhanced
More organized severe risk. Monitor closely.
Moderate
Significant severe risk. Prepare for impactful weather.
High
Highest severe risk category. Treat this as serious and urgent.
What Probability Means
Outlook probabilities usually refer to the chance of severe weather within about 25 miles of a point, not one exact address.
Even a number that looks small can still be important compared to a normal day.
Technical note (optional)
SPC risk categories are tied to probability thresholds and expected severe storm organization.