SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY:
When winds 21-38 miles per hour (18-39 knots) or hazardous wave conditions threaten a coastal area, small craft operators are advised to remain in port or to not venture into the sea.

TROPICAL DEPRESSION:
A disturbance with a clearly defined low pressure area; highest wind speed is thirty-eight (38) miles per hour.

TROPICAL STORM WATCH:
An announcement for specific areas that a tropical storm, (or the potential of a newly developing tropical storm) poses a threat to coastal areas, generally within 36 hours.

TROPICAL STORM WARNING:
A warning that tropical storm conditions, including possible sustained winds within the range of 39-73 miles per hour, are expected in specific coastal areas within 24 hours.

TROPICAL STORM:
A distinct low pressure area well defined by a rotating circulation, with winds of 39-73 miles per hour.

HURRICANE:
Once a tropical storm's constant wind speed reaches 74 miles per hour or greater, it is classified as a hurricane.

HURRICANE WATCH:
An announcement for specific areas that a hurricane or hurricane conditions pose a threat to coastal area, generally within 36 hours.

HURRICANE WARNING:
An alert that a hurricane is expected in a specified coastal area within 24 hours. When a hurricane warning is issued, all precautions should be completed immediately. If the hurricanes path is unusual or erratic, the warning may be issued only a few hours before the beginning of hurricane conditions.

HIGH WIND WATCH/ WARNING:
A warning will be issued for inland counties where hurricane force winds are anticipated.

HURRICANE HAZARDS:
A striking hurricane creates four major hazards; storm surge, high winds, tornadoes and heavy rains.

EVACUATION ORDER:
The most important instruction you will receive from local government officials, relayed over local radio and television stations. Once issued, an evacuation order is mandatory under law in the State of Florida.. If you live in a mobile home or an area ordered to evacuate, gather your survival kit and leave immediately. If you live in a safe area, secure your home and be prepared to stay. Because of long evacuation times and the unpredictability of hurricanes, you may be ordered to leave before a hurricane watch or warning is issued. For hurricane information listen to NOAA Weather Radio 162.4 MHZ.

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