The National Weather Service in Cleveland issues the winter advisories and warnings for our area. Here are the main types defined:



Winter Storm Watch
Issued when there is a potential for heavy snow or significant ice accumulations, usually at least 24 to 36 hours in advance.

Winter Storm Warning
Issued when a winter storm is producing or is forecast to produce heavy snow or significant ice accumulations.

Winter Weather Advisory
Issued when a low pressure system produces a combination of winter weather (snow, freezing rain, sleet, etc.) that present a hazard, but does not meet warning criteria.

Snow Advisory
Issued when a low pressure system produces snow that may cause significant inconveniences, but do not meet warning criteria and if caution is not exercised could lead to life threatening situations.

Heavy Snow Warning
Issued when snowfall of 6 inches or more in 12 hours or 8 inches or more in 24 hours is imminent or occurring. These criteria are specific for the Midwest and may vary regionally.

Lake Effect Snow Advisory
Issued when pure lake effect snow (this is where the snow is a direct result of lake effect snow and not because of a low pressure system) may pose a hazard or it is life threatening.

Lake Effect Snow Warning
Issued when lake effect snows will produce significant accumulation.

Blizzard Warning
Issued for winter storms with sustained or frequent winds of 35 mph or higher with considerable falling and/or blowing snow that frequently reduces visibility to 1/4 of a mile or less. These conditions are expected to prevail for a minimum of 3 hours.

Freezing Drizzle Advisory
Issued when freezing rain or freezing drizzle is forecast but a significant accumulation is not expected. However, even small amounts of freezing rain or freezing drizzle may cause significant travel problems.

Ice Storm Warning
Issued when freezing rain produces a significant and possibly damaging accumulation of ice. The criteria for this warning varies from state to state, but typically will be issued any time more than 1/4" of ice is expected to accumulate in an area.

Wind Chill Advisory
Issued when the wind chill could be life threatening if action is not taken.