Weather Alerts in the United States

Severity is set by the National Weather Service: Extreme and Severe alerts are a threat to life or property, Moderate alerts a possible threat, and Minor alerts little or no known threat.

• Coastal Flood WarningFlooding of coastal roads and property from high water is expected.7
• Flood WarningFlooding is happening or expected soon, often along rivers and streams.6
• Flash Flood WarningFlash flooding is happening or about to happen. Move to higher ground and never drive through flooded roads.1
• Flood WatchConditions could lead to flooding. Stay alert for rising water.1
• Freeze WarningTemperatures at or below freezing will kill crops and other sensitive plants.1
• High Wind WarningSustained winds of 40 mph or more, or gusts of 58 mph or more, are expected.1
• Storm WarningSustained winds of 55 to 73 mph over water.1
• Winter Storm WarningHeavy snow, sleet or ice is expected. Travel may be very difficult or impossible.1
• Gale WarningSustained winds of 39 to 54 mph over water.65
• Rip Current StatementStrong rip currents can pull swimmers away from shore. Swim near a lifeguard.11
• Wind AdvisoryStrong winds that can blow around loose objects and make driving difficult, especially for tall vehicles.6
• Winter Weather AdvisorySnow, sleet, freezing rain or blowing snow will make travel difficult.5
• Beach Hazards StatementDangerous beach conditions such as rip currents or sneaker waves.4
• Coastal Flood WatchCoastal flooding is possible.1
• Dense Fog AdvisoryFog will cut visibility to a quarter mile or less. Slow down and use low beams.1
• Special Weather StatementInformation about a hazard that does not yet meet warning criteria, such as a strong storm or brief heavy snow.1
• Small Craft AdvisoryWinds or seas are hazardous for small boats.198
• Coastal Flood AdvisoryMinor flooding along the coast at high tide is expected.13
• High Surf AdvisoryLarge breaking waves and dangerous currents along the shore.11
• Frost AdvisoryFrost may harm sensitive outdoor plants. Cover or bring them inside.2
• Marine Weather StatementInformation about marine conditions.2
• Coastal Flood StatementInformation about minor coastal flooding or high tides.1
• Flood AdvisoryMinor flooding of streets, low-lying areas or small streams is expected.1
• Air Quality AlertPollution levels may be unhealthy, especially for sensitive groups. Limit time outdoors.2
• Hydrologic OutlookInformation about possible future flooding.1

• Alaska waters 212
• Eastern Pacific 24
• Western Atlantic and Caribbean 14
• Lake Superior 8
• Gulf of America 5
• Western Pacific 2
• Hawaiian waters 1
• Lake Huron 1

Frequently asked questions

How many weather alerts are active right now?

There are 344 active alerts from the National Weather Service, including 83 warnings. The most common are Coastal Flood Warning (7), Flood Warning (6), Flash Flood Warning (1).

Which state has the most weather alerts?

Florida has the most with 18 alerts, followed by Alaska (15), North Carolina (10), California (8).

What is the difference between a watch and a warning?

A watch means conditions are favorable for the hazard, so be prepared. A warning means the hazard is happening or about to happen, so take action now.

How often is this page updated?

We check the National Weather Service for active alerts every 10 minutes. Alerts disappear from this page when they expire or are canceled.