Michigan Weather: Important Differences Between A Winter Warning And Advisory

Alright, whoever is asking for all this snow can stop already.

We're not even halfway through December, and we've been pounded with so much of the fluffy white stuff.

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Now that Old Man Winter is here that also means you'll be seeing winter advisories and warnings, but what the heck is the difference?

Important Differences Between Winter Warning and Winter Advisory

Understanding the difference between a winter warning and a winter advisory can be very important for your safety during winter weather events.

Both terms are used by the National Weather Service (NWS) to inform the public about hazardous conditions, but they indicate different levels of severity and expected impacts.

Winter Weather Advisory

Definition: A winter weather advisory is issued when wintry conditions such as snow, sleet, or freezing rain are expected, but these conditions are not severe enough to meet warning criteria.

The advisory serves as a caution to the public about potentially hazardous weather that could cause significant inconveniences.

Conditions: Typically involves light snow accumulations (generally 2 to 5 inches), minor ice accumulation, or other wintry precipitation that may affect travel but does not pose an immediate threat to life or property.

Impact: Advisories suggest that while conditions may be challenging, they are manageable with caution.

Travelers should be prepared for slippery roads and reduced visibility but are not advised to avoid travel entirely.

Winter Storm Warning

Definition: A winter storm warning is issued when severe winter weather is imminent or occurring.

This includes heavy snowfall, significant ice accumulation, or a combination of both that poses a serious threat to safety.

Conditions: Warnings are typically issued for more severe weather events, such as snow accumulations of 6 inches or more within a short period (e.g., 12 hours), or significant ice accumulation (usually at least 1/4 inch) that can lead to dangerous travel conditions and potential power outages.

Impact: A warning indicates that hazardous conditions are expected to make travel difficult or impossible in some areas.

The public is advised to take immediate precautions, including delaying travel plans until conditions improve.

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