More chilly days ahead, but what exactly is a Cold Weather Advisory?
Yes, it’s winter and it gets cold along the Outer Banks and in northeastern North Carolina around this time of year.
With the recent spate of frigid actual temperatures and what’s commonly referred to as “wind chill,” including over the next few days, that has led to the issuance of advisories using new terminology that started this season.
The changes are part of the National Weather Service’s Hazard Simplification Project that is acting upon data collected during public and partner engagements, surveys, and using social science research.
Starting on October 1, 2024, the weather service consolidated its Wind Chill and Extreme Cold products and Freeze and Hard Freeze Products.
Previously called a Wind Chill Watch, Warning and Advisory, those have shifted to an Extreme Cold Watch and Warning, and Cold Weather Advisory.
The Hard Freeze Watch and Warning, which is is focused on vegetation and agriculture taking into account the growing season, was revised to Freeze Watch and Warning.
“The changes were made to clarify that cold can be dangerous with or without wind, addressing a common misconception that extreme cold is only tied to colder temperatures when there is wind,” according to National Weather Service Public Affairs. “Dangerously cold weather can accompany or follow wintry precipitation, and the cold messaging can be overshadowed by the wintry precipitation.”
So, what are weather service forecasters saying when they issue the new products?
- Extreme Cold Warning: Take Action! An Extreme Cold Warning is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are expected or occurring. If you are in an area with an Extreme Cold Warning, avoid going outside. If you have to go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and make sure at least one other person knows your whereabouts. Update them when you arrive safely at your destination.
- Extreme Cold Watch: Be Prepared. An Extreme Cold Watch is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are possible. As with a Warning, adjust your plans to avoid being outside during the coldest parts of the day. Make sure your car has at least half a tank of gas, and update your winter survival kit.
- Cold Weather Advisory: Be Aware. A Cold Weather Advisory is issued when seasonably cold air temperatures or wind chill values, but not extremely cold values, are expected or occurring. Be sure you and your loved ones dress appropriately and cover exposed skin when venturing outdoors.
Source: https://www.weather.gov/safety/cold-ww
